Ricotta and Chocolate Drop Cake
This Ricotta and Chocolate Drop Cake is a celebration of Italian-inspired flavors transformed into an effortless home-baked delight. The cake’s foundation lies in velvety ricotta, which lends moisture, structure, and a subtle tang. Complementing the ricotta, a custardy dough enriched with sunflower oil and orange zest creates a tender crumb that practically melts on the tongue. Throughout the bake, semi-sweet chocolate drops punctuate the cake, offering pockets of indulgent richness that contrast beautifully with the zesty citrus notes. Baked in a 22 cm round mold, this cake rises to a light dome before settling into a golden, slightly crisp exterior.
Every slice reveals the interplay of textures: the dense yet fluffy crumb, the soft ricotta ribbons, and the gently melted chocolate droplets. Whether served warm with a dusting of powdered sugar, alongside fresh berries and whipped cream, or simply on its own with a cup of espresso, this cake shines in both casual and formal settings. It’s a versatile recipe perfect for brunch spreads, afternoon tea, celebratory tables, or as a make-ahead sweet treat that retains its moisture for days.
Preparation, Cook, and Total Times
Preparation Time: 20 minutes – Gathering and measuring ingredients, creaming ricotta, whisking eggs, and zesting orange.
Cook Time: 45–50 minutes – Baking in a preheated oven until the cake is set and lightly golden.
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes – Includes cooling time to ensure clean slices and optimal texture.
YIELD
One 22 cm (9 inch) round cake, yielding 12 generous slices or 16 smaller portions, suitable for 12–16 servings depending on appetite.
Cuisine
Italian-inspired European dessert, with Mediterranean citrus essence and classic ricotta-based pastry influences.
A Full List of Ingredients
For the Ricotta Filling:
400 g creamy ricotta cheese, at room temperature
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
8 g (about 1 Tbsp) vanilla sugar or fine granulated sugar with vanilla flavor
4 Tbsp granulated sugar
50 g chocolate drops or chips (dark or semi-sweet)
For the Cake Dough:
1 large egg, at room temperature
60 g granulated sugar (about ¼ cup)
Zest of 1 large orange (about 1 Tbsp fresh zest)
120 ml sunflower oil (or neutral vegetable oil)
250 g all‑purpose flour (about 2 cups)
10 g baking powder (about 2 tsp)
Pinch of salt
Butter or oil, for greasing the mold
Step‑by‑Step Cooking Directions
Preheat & Prepare Mold: Preheat oven to 180 °C (350 °F). Grease a 22 cm round cake pan with butter or oil, and line the bottom with parchment paper for easy release.
Cream Ricotta Base: In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta, vanilla sugar, 4 Tbsp granulated sugar, and beaten eggs. Whisk until smooth and homogenous. Gently fold in the chocolate drops; set aside.
Mix Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, whisk the egg, 60 g sugar, and orange zest until pale and slightly thickened (about 2–3 minutes). Slowly drizzle in the sunflower oil while whisking.
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Healthy Oatmeal Vegetarian Patties (Perfect for Weight Loss)
Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Sift together the flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Gradually fold into the wet mixture in batches, stirring until just combined—do not overmix.
Assemble the Cake: Spoon half of the cake batter into the prepared pan, spreading evenly. Dollop the ricotta‑chocolate mixture over the batter, leaving a small margin at the edge. Top with the remaining batter and gently smooth the surface.
Bake: Place in the oven’s center and bake 45–50 minutes, checking at 40 minutes. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs—not wet batter.
Cool: Remove from the oven and cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Run a knife around the edges to loosen, then invert onto a wire rack and peel off the parchment paper. Cool completely before slicing.
Nutritional Information
(Per slice, based on 12 servings, approximate):
Calories: 290 kcal
Total Fat: 14 g (Saturated Fat 5 g)
Cholesterol: 75 mg
Sodium: 120 mg
Total Carbohydrates: 36 g (Sugars 20 g, Dietary Fiber 1 g)
Protein: 6 g
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
Ricotta-based cakes trace back to southern Italy, notably Sicily and Naples, where fresh ricotta was traditionally used in cannoli and cassata. Home cooks adapted the custard-like cheese into simple loafs and layer cakes, blending local citrus and nuts. Over time, ricotta cakes spread through Europe, with regional twists adding chocolate, citrus zest, or liqueurs. Their appeal lies in the moisture and lightness imparted by ricotta, contrasting with denser butter cakes. Today, ricotta cakes enjoy global popularity for their simplicity, versatility, and adaptability to dietary preferences (gluten-free versions, olive oil-based batters).
Reasons Why You’ll Love the Recipe
Unmatched Moisture: Creamy ricotta ensures every slice stays tender.
Flavor Harmony: Citrus zest brightens the richness, while chocolate drops add indulgent pockets.
Effortless Preparation: No creaming of butter—just whisk and fold.
Make‑Ahead Friendly: Holds shape and flavor for up to 3 days at room temperature in an airtight container.
Customizable: Swap chocolate drops for berries, nuts, or dried fruit for varied textures.
Health Benefits
Protein Boost: Ricotta provides high-quality whey and casein proteins.
Calcium Source: Ricotta and milk support bone health.
Healthy Fats: Sunflower oil offers vitamin E and monounsaturated fats.
Moderate Sugar: Balanced sweetness without overloading, especially if chocolate drops are dark.
Serving Suggestions
Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with sweetened whipped cream.
Serve alongside seasonal berries or fruit compote for contrast.
Top with a scoop of vanilla gelato or a dollop of mascarpone.
Plate with a sprig of mint or edible flowers for an elegant presentation.
Cauliflower and broccoli casserole
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overmixing Batter: Leads to tough crumb—fold dry into wet ingredients gently.
Cold Ingredients: Use room-temperature eggs and ricotta for even integration.
Underbaking: Check with a toothpick; underbaked cake will sink in the center.
Greasing Pan Insufficiently: Cake may stick; ensure thorough greasing and parchment lining.
Pairing Recommendations
Coffee: A bold espresso cuts through richness.
Tea: Delicate Earl Grey or chamomile complements citrus notes.
Wine: A light Moscato d’Asti or sparkling Prosecco balances sweetness.
Portrayed Beverages: Serve with cold milk or a scoop of affogato for extra indulgence.
Cooking Tips
Measure Precisely: Weigh flour for consistent results; spoon and level if using cups.
Room Temperature: Bring eggs and ricotta to room temperature for smoother mixing.
Chocolate Drops: Use high-quality chips that hold shape but melt slightly during baking.
Zest Carefully: Avoid the white pith when zesting oranges to prevent bitterness.
Variations to Try
Lemon-Ricotta Cake: Replace orange zest with lemon zest for a brighter tang.
Nutty Crunch: Fold in 50 g chopped pistachios or almonds for texture.
Spiced Version: Add 1 tsp ground cinnamon or cardamom to the dry mix.
Gluten-Free: Substitute flour with an equal weight of almond flour and add 1 Tbsp extra baking powder.
Similar Recipes to Try
Sicilian Cassata Cake — Layered ricotta sponge with candied fruit.
Lemon Olive Oil Cake — Moist citrus cake without dairy.
Greek Yogurt Pound Cake — Dense, tangy cake with Greek yogurt.
Chocolate Ricotta Muffins — Individual portions using ricotta and chocolate.
Ingredient Spotlight
Ricotta: This fresh cheese is lower in fat than cream cheese, packs protein, and creates moisture. Look for whole-milk ricotta for best texture.
Sunflower Oil: Neutral flavor and high smoke point make it ideal for cakes; substitutes include light olive or grapeseed oil.
Orange Zest: Delivers concentrated citrus aroma and flavor; always zest before juicing to preserve oils.
Conclusion
This Ricotta and Chocolate Drop Cake is a testament to simple, wholesome ingredients elevating one another. With minimal fuss and maximum reward, it brings Italian-inspired elegance to your table. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice home cook, the tender crumb, zesty aroma, and melty chocolate pockets will win hearts at first bite. Perfect for gatherings, celebrations, or a delightful everyday treat, this recipe is destined to become a cherished favorite in your repertoire.
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