If you’re craving a dessert that wraps cozy fall flavors into one moist, tender slice, you’ve just found your new favorite with this delightful Maple Apple Ricotta Cake Recipe. It’s a perfect harmony of sweet maple syrup, fresh crisp apples, and creamy ricotta cheese that bakes up into a lightly spiced cake that’s both comforting and elegant. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or just treating yourself on a quiet afternoon, this cake promises a beautiful balance of flavors and textures you won’t forget.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are refreshingly simple yet essential to bring out the warm, inviting flavor profile and tender crumb of the cake. Each one plays a crucial role—from the aromatic cinnamon to the creamy ricotta, and of course, the true star, the pure maple syrup.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The base that gives structure and softness to the cake.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cake rise beautifully and stay light.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Works with acidic ingredients for the perfect lift.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon: Adds that warm, cozy spice that complements apples perfectly.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened): Brings richness and moisture to every bite.
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup: Gives a lovely natural sweetness and that unmistakable maple aroma.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds subtle sweetness and a slight balance to the syrup’s depth.
- 3 large eggs: Provide structure and a tender crumb.
- 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese: Contributes creaminess and a slight tang, making the cake incredibly moist.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Layers in additional warmth and complexity.
- 1 1/2 cups peeled and finely chopped apple (such as Honeycrisp or Gala): Fresh, juicy bites that keep the cake lively and fruity.
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional): Adds a perfect crunch and nutty contrast.
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional): A delicate finishing touch to dress up your cake.
How to Make Maple Apple Ricotta Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and greasing a 9-inch springform pan or cake pan. This preparation ensures your cake bakes evenly and releases easily once it’s done.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Mixing these dry ingredients evenly upfront helps distribute the leavening agents and spice throughout the cake for consistent flavor and rise.
Step 3: Cream Butter, Maple Syrup, and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, pure maple syrup, and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and creamy. This step is key to building the cake’s tender texture and infusing it with rich maple sweetness.
Step 4: Add Eggs, Ricotta, and Vanilla
One at a time, incorporate the eggs into your butter mixture, making sure each is fully blended before adding the next. Then mix in the ricotta cheese and vanilla extract until your batter is beautifully smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, taking care to mix just until combined. Overmixing here can lead to a dense cake, so gentle folding is your friend.
Step 6: Fold in Apples and Nuts
Gently fold in the finely chopped apples and nuts if you’re using them. These fresh elements add wonderful texture and bursts of flavor throughout the cake.
Step 7: Bake
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth out the surface. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma that fills your kitchen while the cake bakes is honestly the best teaser for what’s to come.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. If you like a touch of extra sweetness, dust the top with powdered sugar just before serving.
How to Serve Maple Apple Ricotta Cake Recipe
Garnishes
A simple dusting of powdered sugar makes this cake look stunning, but for added flair, drizzle warmed maple syrup over each slice. It elevates the flavor and adds a lovely glossy finish that guests will adore.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs beautifully with a warm cup of coffee or a fragrant chai tea. For an indulgent touch, serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. These sides complement the cake’s moist texture and rounded sweetness perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the Maple Apple Ricotta Cake Recipe as individual mini cakes or cupcakes for a charming presentation. Alternatively, slice and layer pieces with Greek yogurt and fresh apple slices for a glossy twist that doubles as a light brunch or dessert option.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once completely cooled, wrap your cake tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. It will keep fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days while maintaining its moist texture and lovely flavors.
Freezing
If you want to make this cake ahead and freeze it, wrap it well in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating
To gently warm leftover cake slices, place them in a microwave-safe dish and heat at 50 percent power for about 20 seconds, or until just warmed through. This helps revive the cake’s tender crumb without drying it out.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of ricotta?
Ricotta is key to the cake’s moist, tender crumb and slight tang, but if you want to experiment, mascarpone is a good substitute. Just be aware it’s richer and will alter the texture slightly.
What kind of apples work best in this cake?
Firm, crisp apples like Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji are ideal because they hold their shape and offer a nice balance of sweet and tart, giving the cake a fresh, juicy bite in every slice.
Is it necessary to include nuts in the recipe?
Nuts are completely optional but add delightful crunch and a nutty depth that pairs well with the maple and apple flavors. If you have allergies or prefer to skip them, the cake is just as delicious without.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
You can try substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that includes xanthan gum for structure. Keep in mind baking times might vary slightly, so monitor the cake closely as it bakes.
How do I store the cake if I want to keep it moist?
Storing the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days is fine, but refrigerating wrapped in plastic is best to preserve moisture for longer periods without drying out.
Final Thoughts
This Maple Apple Ricotta Cake Recipe is truly a treasure to have in your baking repertoire. Its warm flavors, gentle sweetness, and tender texture make it perfect for any occasion or an everyday treat. I can’t wait for you to try it yourself and enjoy all the comfort it brings, slice after delicious slice.
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Maple Apple Ricotta Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Maple Apple Ricotta Cake is a moist, tender dessert bursting with the warm flavors of cinnamon, maple syrup, and fresh apples. Creamy ricotta cheese adds richness and softness to the crumb, while optional nuts provide a delightful crunch. Perfect for fall or any cozy occasion, it’s delightful served dusted with powdered sugar and pairs wonderfully with tea or coffee.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Add-ins
- 1 1/2 cups peeled and finely chopped apple (such as Honeycrisp or Gala)
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
For Serving
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan or a regular cake pan thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon until well combined. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sweeteners: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter, pure maple syrup, and granulated sugar together until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and creamy.
- Add Eggs and Ricotta: Add the eggs one at a time to the creamed butter mixture, beating well after each addition. Then mix in the ricotta cheese and vanilla extract until the batter is smooth and well combined.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, gently stirring just until everything is combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep the cake tender.
- Fold in Apples and Nuts: Gently fold in the finely chopped apples and the optional chopped walnuts or pecans, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
- Pour and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula for even baking. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the cake’s center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it onto a wire rack to cool completely. Optionally, dust the top with powdered sugar before serving for an elegant finishing touch.
Notes
- For an enhanced maple flavor, drizzle warm maple syrup over each slice just before serving.
- This cake pairs excellently with hot beverages like tea or coffee.
- It tastes even better the day after baking, making it perfect to prepare in advance.
