Description
Creamy Delight of Ricotta Cheesecake is a luscious, smooth Italian dessert featuring a buttery graham cracker crust and a velvety ricotta cheese filling. This baked cheesecake offers a lighter texture than traditional varieties and is subtly flavored with vanilla and lemon zest. Perfect for an elegant dessert, it pairs beautifully with fresh berries or a drizzle of honey.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 2 pounds whole milk ricotta cheese
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
Optional
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 325°F. In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter until the mixture is well incorporated. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes to set the crust, then remove from the oven and allow it to cool slightly.
- Make the ricotta filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the ricotta cheese until it becomes smooth and creamy. Gradually add 1 cup of granulated sugar and blend until integrated. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure a smooth texture.
- Add flavor and thickeners: Stir in the all-purpose flour, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and heavy cream. Mix until the filling achieves a silky consistency free of lumps.
- Assemble and bake: Pour the prepared ricotta filling over the cooled crust in the springform pan. Bake at 325°F for 65 to 75 minutes or until the center is just set and the edges turn lightly golden.
- Cool gradually: After baking, turn off the oven and crack the oven door slightly. Let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour to prevent cracking and ensure gradual temperature reduction.
- Chill before serving: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and refrigerator it for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to fully set and develop flavor.
- Serve: Before serving, optionally dust the cheesecake with powdered sugar. Enhance the experience by serving with fresh berries or a drizzle of honey for an added touch of sweetness.
Notes
- For a lighter texture, beat the ricotta thoroughly until very smooth before adding other ingredients.
- This cheesecake is less dense and creamier compared to traditional versions.
- Pairs exceptionally well with fresh berries or a drizzle of honey for added flavor.
