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
Scale
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.
