6 Ingredient Italian Ricotta Cake – Grain Free

Simple to make 6 Ingredient Italian Ricotta cake made without grains and gluten and flavored with honey and a hint of vanilla. This creamy, light, chilled cheesecake-style dessert is an upside-down cake showcasing caramel topping. 

ITALIAN DESSERT AND RICOTTA

Italian cuisine is known for using simple ingredients in recipes. Such as the Gluten-Free Ricotta Lemon Loaf or the Gluten-Free Coffee Brownie With Ricotta Swirl. Ricotta cheese, known for its creamy texture and delicate flavor, is the key ingredient in this grain-free Italian dessert.

WHAT DOES ITALIAN RICOTTA CAKE TASTE LIKE?

This Italian grain-free dessert has a unique taste that is rich, creamy, and mildly sweet. The flavor of the ricotta cheese shines through, providing a delicate sweetness that is complemented by vanilla and caramel topping.

THE SIMPLICITY OF ITALIAN RICOTTA CAKE

One of the most captivating aspects of the Italian Ricotta Cake is its simplicity. With just six ingredients, this cake proves you don’t need a long list of ingredients to create something delicious, such as this grain-free dessert. 

IS RICOTTA CAKE GLUTEN FREE?

When using gluten-free flour such as almond flour, ricotta cake is gluten free. However, checking the ingredients used in a specific recipe is essential to ensure it is gluten-free.

VARIATIONS OF GRAIN-FREE RICOTTA CAKE

Depending on personal preferences, there are many ways to enhance the flavor of ricotta cake. Add ingredients like lemon zest, orange zest, almond extract, or fresh berries to add depth, texture, and taste.

KEY INGREDIENTS FOR GRAIN-FREE RICOTTA CAKE

• Good quality ricotta cheese
• Eggs
• Honey
• Almond flour
• Pure vanilla extract
• Sugar for caramel topping

MAKE THE 6 INGREDIENT ITALIAN RICOTTA CAKE

Drain the ricotta cheese

Place ricotta it in a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth-lined colander and set it over a bowl for about an hour to drain extra moisture

Make the caramel

Place sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat. Do not stir the sugar; only shake occasionally until the sugar dissolves and turns a light amber color. As soon as all the sugar has dissolved and changed color (about 2 -4 minutes), immediately remove it from the heat and pour evenly over the bottom of the prepared pan.

Make the cake

Whisk the ricotta, eggs, almond flour, and vanilla, and pour the batter over the caramel. Bake for about 50 – 60 minutes until the cake is set and golden brown on top. Chill the cake for 4 hours or overnight.

Invert the cake

Once chilled, using a sharp knife, loosen the edges of the cake, then place a platter over the pan and invert the cake. Gently peel the parchment paper and chill until ready to slice and serve.

Slice to the desired sizes

SERVING

Ricotta cake pairs well with a variety of toppings and accompaniments. Serve it plain, or add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a more indulgent treat. Fresh berries can also add a burst of flavor to each bite.

EXPLORING RICOTTA CHEESE

Ricotta cheese is made from the whey, the watery portion of milk that separates from the curds when making cheese. It’s known for its creamy texture and mild, slightly sweet flavor. 

However, not all ricotta cheeses are created equal. When selecting ricotta for baking, look for good quality, smooth, spreadable varieties with a velvety texture. Avoid dry ricotta, as it can make the cake grainy.

SHOULD I DRAIN RICOTTA?

In some cases, draining ricotta is important to achieve a rich, creamy texture. Some ricotta cheese varieties can contain excess moisture, which may affect the texture and consistency of the cake. 

Draining the ricotta helps remove some moisture, resulting in a creamier texture in the finished cake. It can also prevent the cake from becoming too soggy or wet.

Typically, draining ricotta involves placing it in a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth-lined colander set over a bowl and allowing it to drain for an hour. However, if the ricotta is thick and creamy, you may not need to drain it.

STORING GRAIN-FREE RICOTTA CAKE

Ricotta cake should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. It can typically be stored for up to several days, although it’s best enjoyed within the first few days after baking for optimal taste and texture.

YOU MAY ALSO ENJOY THESE GLUTEN FREE RECIPES USING RICOTTA AS THE KEY INGREDIENT

Gluten-Free Baked Spinach Ricotta Dip

Gluten-Free Ricotta Blueberry Breakfast Cake

15 Minute Gluten-Free Pasta With Garlic Ricotta & Tomatoes

Strawberry Ricotta Mousse With Blackberry Topping

TAKEAWAY

Simply put, this grain-free Italian ricotta cake is made with good-quality ricotta cheese, eggs, honey, vanilla, and almond flour. After baking, it’s flipped upside down to reveal a caramel topping. 

You can boost the flavor of this ricotta dessert by adding citrus zest, extracts, or fresh fruit. Whether you enjoy it plain or with toppings, this easy-made ricotta cake is always a hit!