This light and airy lemon ricotta cake is a delightful dessert, perfect for any occasion. The ricotta cheese adds a subtle richness and moistness, while the lemon provides a refreshing zest.
Ingredients:
- For the Cake:
- 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- Zest of 2 lemons
- Optional for a Lemon Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 Tablespoons lemon juice.
Instructions:
- Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a 9-inch springform pan.
- Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Cream Butter and Sugar:
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla:
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Combine Wet Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, and lemon juice, and the lemon zest.
- Combine Dry and Wet:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the ricotta mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Bake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared springform pan.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool:
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before removing it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the Glaze (Optional):
- in a small bowl whisk the powdered sugar and lemon juice until a smooth glaze has been formed. Add more lemon juice or powdered sugar to reach the desired consistency.
- Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake.
- Serve:
- Slice and serve your delicious lemon ricotta cake.
Tips:
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.
- For a more intense lemon flavor, add more lemon zest to the batter.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before adding a glaze.
Enjoy your baking!