Chocolate And Ricotta Cake
Chocolate and ricotta cake is a rich, moist dessert that blends the creaminess of ricotta cheese with the deep flavor of chocolate. Often flourless or with minimal flour, it's dense yet tender. Ideal for special occasions, it pairs well with coffee or wine, and may be topped with cocoa, berries, or ganache.
Equipment
- Mixing bowls (medium and large)
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Rubber spatula
- 8-inch or 9-inch round cake pan
- Parchment paper (optional)
- Cooling rack
- Sifter (for flour and cocoa)
Ingredients
- ½ cup Dutch-processed cocoa powder
- 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
- ½ cup unsalted butter softened or melted
- ¾ cup + 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs at room temperature
- 1½ teaspoons baking powder
- 6 oz dark chocolate 52% cocoa or higher, melted and slightly cooled
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup cake flour or use 1 cup all-purpose flour minus 2 tablespoons, plus 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- ½ cup mini semi-sweet chocolate chips optional, for topping
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8-inch or 9-inch round cake pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the ricotta cheese and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Gently mix in the melted dark chocolate until fully combined.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the cake flour, cocoa powder, and baking powder. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula. Fold in half of the mini chocolate chips if using. Save the rest to sprinkle on top.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan. Smooth the top and sprinkle the remaining chocolate chips over the surface.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar or serve as is.