Looking for a show-stopping dessert that’s perfect for special occasions or simply as a sweet indulgence? This Italian Love Cake combines rich layers of chocolate cake, a creamy ricotta filling, and a velvety chocolate frosting, making it a perfect treat for any celebration. Whether it’s for a holiday dinner, birthday, or just because, this cake will surely impress your guests with its luscious texture and irresistible flavors.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
1 box chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients called for on the box)
2 pounds ricotta cheese
4 large eggs
¾ cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Frosting:
1(8 oz) container whipped topping, thawed
1 (3.4 oz) box instant chocolate pudding mix
1 cup cold milk
Instructions:
Prepare the Cake Batter: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure the cake doesn’t stick. Prepare the chocolate cake batter according to the instructions on the box, then pour the batter into the prepared baking dish.
Make the Ricotta Layer: In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, eggs, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Carefully spoon the ricotta mixture over the chocolate cake batter. Gently spread it out evenly to cover the cake batter.
Bake the Cake: Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the cake is set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely.
Prepare the Frosting: While the cake cools, prepare the frosting by whisking together the instant pudding mix and cold milk in a medium-sized bowl. Once the mixture thickens, gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until smooth and fluffy.
Frost and Serve: Once the cake has cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the top. Cover the cake and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld together. After chilling, slice and enjoy this rich, decadent dessert!
Serving Tips:
Chill Before Serving: For the best flavor and texture, allow the cake to chill for at least 2 hours after frosting. This helps the layers set and allows the flavors to meld together.
Serve Cold: Italian Love Cake is best enjoyed cold. After chilling, slice it into squares for a clean, neat presentation.
Garnish: If desired, you can garnish the top with fresh berries, chocolate shavings, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an extra touch of elegance.
Storage Tips:
Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The cake needs to stay chilled due to the creamy ricotta filling and whipped topping frosting.
Freezing: Although this cake is best served fresh, you can freeze it for longer storage. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a resealable freezer bag. The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Layer Preservation: To prevent the layers from sticking together, place a piece of wax paper or parchment paper between the layers when wrapping for freezing.
Related Recipes:
FAQs:
Can I use a homemade chocolate cake recipe instead of a box mix?
Yes, you can absolutely use a homemade chocolate cake recipe if you prefer. Just make sure the batter is similar in consistency to the one in the box mix, and follow the same layering process with the ricotta mixture. Homemade cake can add a personal touch to this already decadent dessert.
Can I substitute the ricotta cheese with something else?
While ricotta cheese gives Italian Love Cake its signature creamy texture, you can try substituting it with mascarpone cheese for a richer flavor, or even cream cheese for a tangier option. Just keep in mind that these substitutions may slightly alter the taste and texture of the cake.
Can I make Italian Love Cake in advance?
Yes! In fact, making Italian Love Cake a day ahead of time is ideal. It allows the flavors to meld together and ensures the layers set properly. Just be sure to store it in the refrigerator, and let it chill for at least 2 hours before serving.
How do I prevent the ricotta filling from sinking into the cake batter?
To prevent the ricotta filling from sinking into the cake batter, gently spoon it over the cake rather than pouring it all at once. Spreading it evenly with a spatula can also help keep it from mixing too much with the cake. The layers will naturally form as the cake bakes, creating the perfect texture.
Conclusion:
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced baker, Italian Love Cake is an easy-to-make yet impressive dessert. With its layers of moist chocolate cake, creamy ricotta filling, and sweet frosting, this cake is guaranteed to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy every decadent bite!
📖 Recipe:
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Italian Love Cake
- Total Time: 3 hours (including cooling and chilling)
- Yield: 12 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Italian Love Cake is a mouthwatering layered dessert featuring rich chocolate cake, creamy ricotta cheese filling, and a decadent chocolate frosting. This easy-to-make, yet impressive cake is perfect for special occasions or as an indulgent treat. With a smooth ricotta layer nestled on top of a moist chocolate cake, topped with a luscious whipped chocolate frosting, this dessert is guaranteed to please everyone. Enjoy the flavors of Italy with this irresistible cake!
Ingredients
For the Cake:
1 box chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients called for on the box)
2 pounds ricotta cheese
4 large eggs
¾ cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Frosting:
1 (8 oz) container whipped topping, thawed
1 (3.4 oz) box instant chocolate pudding mix
1 cup cold milk
Instructions
- Prepare the Cake Batter: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Prepare the chocolate cake batter according to the instructions on the box and pour it into the baking dish.
- Make the Ricotta Layer: In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, eggs, sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy. Spoon the ricotta mixture gently over the cake batter and spread evenly.
- Bake the Cake: Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely.
- Prepare the Frosting: In a medium bowl, whisk the instant chocolate pudding mix with cold milk until thickened. Fold in the whipped topping until smooth.
- Frost and Serve: Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Notes
Make Ahead: This cake is even better when made a day in advance. It allows the flavors to meld and the texture to set properly.
Substitute Ricotta: If desired, mascarpone cheese or cream cheese can be used as a substitute for ricotta for a slightly different flavor.
Serving Suggestions: Garnish with chocolate shavings, fresh berries, or a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Cake
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12 servings
- Calories: 320 kcal
