Ricotta Pie

Ricotta Pie

Ricotta Pie is a delightful dessert that captures the essence of Italian traditions. This creamy, sweet pie is a celebration of simple ingredients blending harmoniously to create a truly indulgent experience. The smooth textures of ricotta coupled with the fragrant zests of lemon and orange elevate this dish, making it perfect for any gathering. It’s easy to make, and it’s sure to impress your guests with its rich flavor and stunning appearance. This recipe offers a step-by-step guide to ensure your baking experience is smooth and enjoyable, resulting in a dessert that you’ll want to make time and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Ricotta Pie recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for bakers of all levels. It utilizes minimal ingredients, which means you can create something truly special without a long shopping list. The prep time is quick, and once it’s in the oven, you can just sit back and relax as the delicious aromas fill your kitchen. Family-friendly, this pie appeals to both adults and kids, making it a versatile option for every occasion—from birthdays to casual family dinners.

For Ricotta Pie

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese – Creamy and mildly flavored, the heart of our pie.
• 1 cup granulated sugar – Sweetness that balances perfectly with the ricotta.
• 3 large eggs – These bring a fluffy texture and richness to the filling.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds depth and warmth to the flavor profile.
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest – Brightens the pie with a refreshing citrus note.
• 1 tablespoon orange zest – Complements the lemon with an aromatic sweetness.
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour – Provides the structure for the pie.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder – Helps the pie rise and become light.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt – Enhances flavors and balances sweetness.
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for greasing) – Ensures a non-stick surface.
• Powdered sugar (for dusting) – A finishing touch that adds elegance.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and butter a 9-inch pie pan to prevent sticking.

2. In a large bowl, beat the ricotta cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy.

3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to ensure an even texture.

4. Stir in the vanilla extract, lemon zest, and orange zest, infusing the mixture with bright flavors.

5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

6. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the ricotta mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want a fluffy texture!

7. Pour the batter into the prepared pie pan and smooth out the top with a spatula.

8. Bake in the preheated oven for 40–45 minutes, or until the pie is set and lightly golden on top.

9. Allow the pie to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

10. Just before serving, dust the top with powdered sugar for a lovely finishing touch.

For Ricotta Pie

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prep: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your pie pan.

2. Mix Ricotta and Sugar: Beat the ricotta and sugar together until smooth and creamy for the perfect base.

3. Incorporate Eggs: Add the eggs in sequence, one at a time, for best results. This creates the ideal texture.

4. Infuse Flavor: Mix in the vanilla, lemon, and orange zests for an aromatic experience.

5. Combine Dry Ingredients: Whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt before adding to the wet ingredients.

6. Fold Gently: Combine the mixtures carefully until you see no dry flour—this prevents overmixing.

7. Bake: Smooth the batter in the pan and bake until set; enjoy the delightful aroma while baking!

8. Cool and Serve: Allow the dessert to cool, then dust it for that elegant finish.

Tips & Tricks

• Use Fresh Zest: For a more vibrant flavor, always use fresh lemon and orange zests.
• Add a Twist: Consider adding a touch of almond extract for a nutty flavor.
• Gauge Doneness: The pie should jiggle slightly in the center when done—this will firm up as it cools.
• Serving Temperature: Serve warm or at room temperature; both ways are delicious!
• Make Ahead: This pie can be made a day in advance for a stress-free dessert preparation.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Pair your Ricotta Pie with fresh berries like strawberries or blueberries for added freshness and color. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can enhance the indulgence. This pie is perfect for coffee or tea time, making it an excellent choice for brunch or dessert at family gatherings. For a touch of sophistication, serve alongside a glass of iced herbal tea.

Nutritional Information

Each slice of Ricotta Pie contains approximately 250 calories, alongside a delightful mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. While this pie is a bit of a treat, it’s a great balance of flavors and textures without being overly heavy. Just remember to enjoy it in moderation, as all desserts are best savored!

Storing Tips & Variations for Ricotta Pie

To store leftover Ricotta Pie, cover it with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to three days. If you want to enjoy this pie at a later date, consider freezing slices; just ensure they’re wrapped well. When reheating, do so gently in the oven at a low temperature to prevent drying out.

For a fun variation, try adding chocolate chips or nuts to the mixture before baking, or create a seasonal twist with pumpkin puree during the fall!

Conclusion for Ricotta Pie

You won’t regret trying this Ricotta Pie recipe—it’s a deliciously simple dessert that captures the essence of homemade goodness. Perfect for gatherings or just a sweet treat for yourself, this pie is a dessert that will quickly become a favorite. Don’t wait any longer; gather your ingredients and start baking today!

FAQs

1. Can I substitute the ricotta cheese?

Yes! You can use cottage cheese or mascarpone cheese, but ricotta gives the best texture and flavor.

2. Can I make Ricotta Pie gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour, and it should work just fine.

3. How do I know when the pie is done baking?

The pie should be set in the center and lightly golden on top; it should jiggle slightly when you shake it.

4. Can I freeze leftover Ricotta Pie?

Yes, wrap the pie slices tightly and freeze. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

5. What can I serve with Ricotta Pie?

It pairs wonderfully with fresh fruits, whipped cream, or ice cream for a delectable treat!

Print Recipe

Ricotta Pie

Ricotta Pie is a delightful Italian dessert featuring a creamy filling made from ricotta cheese, sugar, and citrus zests, perfect for any gathering.

Prep Time15 minutes mins

Cook Time45 minutes mins

Total Time1 hour hr

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: Italian

Keyword: Baking, easy pie, family-friendly dessert, Italian dessert, Ricotta Pie

Servings: 8 servings

Calories: 250kcal

Ingredients

For the pie filling

• 1.5 cups ricotta cheese Creamy and mildly flavored, the heart of our pie.
• 1 cup granulated sugar Sweetness that balances perfectly with the ricotta.
• 3 large eggs These bring a fluffy texture and richness to the filling.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Adds depth and warmth to the flavor profile.
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest Brightens the pie with a refreshing citrus note.
• 1 tablespoon orange zest Complements the lemon with an aromatic sweetness.
• 0.5 cup all-purpose flour Provides the structure for the pie.
• 0.5 teaspoon baking powder Helps the pie rise and become light.
• 0.25 teaspoon salt Enhances flavors and balances sweetness.
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for greasing) Ensures a non-stick surface.
• to taste powdered sugar (for dusting) A finishing touch that adds elegance.

Instructions

Preparation

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and butter a 9-inch pie pan to prevent sticking.
• In a large bowl, beat the ricotta cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy.
• Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to ensure an even texture.
• Stir in the vanilla extract, lemon zest, and orange zest, infusing the mixture with bright flavors.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
• Gently fold the dry ingredients into the ricotta mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want a fluffy texture!
• Pour the batter into the prepared pie pan and smooth out the top with a spatula.

Baking

• Bake in the preheated oven for 40–45 minutes, or until the pie is set and lightly golden on top.
• Allow the pie to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
• Just before serving, dust the top with powdered sugar for a lovely finishing touch.

Notes

For a more vibrant flavor, always use fresh lemon and orange zests. Consider adding a touch of almond extract for a nutty flavor. The pie should jiggle slightly in the center when done; this will firm up as it cools. Serve warm or at room temperature; both ways are delicious! This pie can be made a day in advance for a stress-free dessert preparation.