Description
Italian Love Cake is a rich and indulgent dessert featuring a moist chocolate cake base complemented by a silky ricotta cheese layer infused with cinnamon and vanilla. This luscious cake bakes to perfection in a single pan, resulting in a tender crumb with a creamy surprise, dusted with powdered sugar for a lovely finish. Perfect for special occasions or a decadent treat for chocolate lovers.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Cake:
- 1 box of chocolate cake mix (or homemade chocolate cake)
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
For the Ricotta Layer:
- 1 (15 oz) container ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 large egg
For the Topping:
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Mix Chocolate Cake Batter: Prepare the chocolate cake mix according to the package directions by combining the mix with water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Stir until smooth, then pour the batter evenly into the greased baking dish.
- Combine Ricotta Layer Ingredients: In a separate bowl, blend the ricotta cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and egg together until the mixture is smooth and evenly combined.
- Add Ricotta Mixture on Top: Carefully spoon the ricotta mixture over the chocolate cake batter. Do not stir or swirl the layers; the ricotta will naturally sink into the cake as it bakes.
- Bake the Cake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Finish: Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, dust the top generously with powdered sugar.
- Serve: Slice the cake into 12 servings and enjoy this creamy, chocolatey delight!
Notes
- For best results, use whole milk ricotta cheese for a richer texture.
- You can substitute the chocolate cake mix with your favorite homemade chocolate cake recipe.
- Allow the cake to cool completely to help the ricotta layer set properly.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Garnish with fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an extra special touch.
