Imagine a soft, moist cake with a hint of sweetness. The ricotta adds a unique texture and flavor that makes it special. It pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea, making every bite a joy. Many people love to share this cake during gatherings or serve it at home for family.
It’s easy to make and offers a lovely twist on traditional recipes. Dive into the world of ricotta coffee cake, and discover how this simple ingredient can elevate your baking.
Introduction To Ricotta Coffee Cake
The rich texture and subtle flavors make it stand out. Let’s dive into what makes Ricotta Coffee Cake so special.
Why Ricotta Makes This Coffee Cake Extra Special
Ricotta cheese is not just an ingredient; it transforms the entire cake. This cheese adds moisture and a rich flavor. Here’s why ricotta is a star in this recipe:
- Moisture: Ricotta keeps the cake from drying out.
- Flavor: It adds a subtle creaminess that enhances the taste.
- Texture: The cheese gives the cake a tender crumb.
- Nutrition: Ricotta is lower in fat compared to butter.
Here’s a simple comparison of traditional coffee cake and ricotta coffee cake:
Aspect | Traditional Coffee Cake | Ricotta Coffee Cake |
---|---|---|
Moisture | Can be dry | Always moist |
Flavor | Standard sweetness | Rich and creamy |
Texture | Crumbly | Tender and soft |
Nutrition | Higher fat | Lower fat |
This unique combination makes Ricotta Coffee Cake a favorite. The texture and taste create a memorable experience. A slice feels comforting, perfect with a cup of coffee or tea.
Perfect For Breakfast, Brunch, Or Dessert
Ricotta Coffee Cake is versatile. It fits any meal or occasion. Enjoy it for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Here’s how:
- Breakfast: Serve with fresh fruit and a cup of coffee.
- Brunch: Pair with light salads and mimosas.
- Dessert: Top with whipped cream and berries.
Its adaptable nature makes it a go-to choice. You can even change flavors by adding:
- Chocolate chips
- Lemon zest
- Almond extract
This cake can fit any palate. Share it with friends or family. Everyone will love its rich texture and delightful taste. Make it your new favorite treat for any occasion.

How to Make the Best Ricotta Coffee Cake: Step-by-Step Recipe
Equipment
- Mixing Bowls
- Hand mixer or stand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 9-inch round or square cake pan
- Zester or grater (for lemon zest)
- Spatula
- Cooling rack
Ingredients
For the filling
- 1 cup Ricotta cheese
- 3 tablespoons Granulated sugar
- 1 lemon Fresh lemon zest
- 1 large egg
For the crumb topping
- ⅓ cup Brown sugar
- ¼ cup All-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons Chilled butter
- ½ teaspoon Cinnamon
For the cake base
- 3 tablespoons Softened butter
- ⅓ cup Granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- ½ teaspoon Pure vanilla extract
- ¼ cup Milk
- 1 cup All-purpose flour
- Salt – a pinch
- 1 teaspoon Baking powder
- 1 cup Fresh blackberries
Instructions
- Start by preparing the creamy ricotta filling. This filling adds moisture and richness to the cake. Gather the following ingredients:1 cup ricotta cheese1/2 cup sugar1 large egg1 teaspoon vanilla extractIn a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese and sugar. Mix them well until the sugar dissolves. Then, add the egg and vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This filling should have a thick consistency. Set it aside for later use.
- The crumb topping adds a sweet crunch to your Ricotta Coffee Cake. It creates a delightful contrast to the soft cake. To make the crumb topping, you will need:1/2 cup all-purpose flour1/2 cup brown sugar1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened1 teaspoon ground cinnamonIn a bowl, mix flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Add the softened butter and mix with your hands or a fork. You want to create small crumbs. The topping should be crumbly but stick together when squeezed. Set this aside for later.
- Next, it’s time to make the fluffy cake base. The cake is light and pairs perfectly with the creamy filling. Gather these ingredients:1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour1/2 cup sugar2 teaspoons baking powder1/2 teaspoon salt1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened2 large eggs1/2 cup milkIn a large bowl, whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the softened butter and mix until crumbly. Then, add eggs and milk. Beat until the batter is smooth. This batter should be thick but pourable. Pour half of the batter into a greased pan.
- Now, it’s time to layer your cake. Start with the first half of the batter in the pan. Spread it evenly. Next, carefully spoon the ricotta filling over the batter. Spread it out gently to cover the surface. Then, pour the remaining batter over the filling. Finally, sprinkle the crumb topping on the top layer of batter. Make sure it covers the entire surface.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. The top should be golden brown. Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve with your favorite coffee or tea. Enjoy every bite of this delicious Ricotta Coffee Cake.
Tips For The Best Ricotta Coffee Cake
To make this cake even better, follow these tips. They will help you create a perfect cake that is moist, flavorful, and satisfying.
How To Keep The Cake Moist
Keeping your Ricotta Coffee Cake moist is essential for a delicious result. Here are some effective tips:
- Use Fresh Ricotta: Fresh ricotta adds more moisture than older cheese.
- Avoid Overmixing: Mix only until ingredients combine. Overmixing makes the cake dry.
- Check Baking Time: Bake until just set. A toothpick should come out with a few crumbs.
- Cool Properly: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it. This helps keep moisture in.
Here’s a quick table for a visual guide:
Tip | Description |
---|---|
Use Fresh Ricotta | Enhances moisture and flavor. |
Avoid Overmixing | Keeps the cake tender. |
Check Baking Time | Prevents dryness from overbaking. |
Cool Properly | Locks in moisture during cooling. |
These tips will help you achieve a moist and delicious cake every time.
Substitutions And Variations
Ricotta Coffee Cake is flexible. You can easily make substitutions or variations to suit your taste.
- Cheese Alternatives: Substitute ricotta with mascarpone for a richer flavor.
- Flour Options: Use whole wheat flour for a healthier option. It adds a nutty flavor.
- Sweeteners: Replace sugar with honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetness.
- Add-Ins: Consider adding nuts, dried fruit, or chocolate chips for extra texture.
Try these variations:
- Cinnamon Swirl: Add a layer of cinnamon sugar in the middle of the batter.
- Fruit Topping: Top with fresh berries or sliced peaches before baking.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate on top after cooling.
Experiment with these ideas to make your cake unique. Each variation can create a new flavor experience.
Nutritional Value Of Ricotta Coffee Cake
Understanding the nutritional value of Ricotta Coffee Cake helps you make better choices. You can enjoy it while keeping track of your dietary needs.
Calories Per Serving
Each serving of Ricotta Coffee Cake contains about 275 calories. This number can vary based on the specific ingredients used. Knowing the calorie content helps you plan your meals better. Here are some important points to consider:
- Calories mainly come from sugar and flour.
- The ricotta cheese adds creaminess without too many extra calories.
- Portion size affects total calorie intake.
Here is a simple table showing the calorie breakdown:
Ingredient | Calories |
---|---|
Flour (1 cup) | 455 |
Sugar (1/2 cup) | 387 |
Ricotta Cheese (1/2 cup) | 300 |
Eggs (2 large) | 143 |
Butter (1/4 cup) | 400 |
This table gives a clear picture of how calories from different ingredients add up. Remember, a slice of Ricotta Coffee Cake can be a tasty treat while still fitting into your daily calorie goals.
Macronutrients Breakdown
Ricotta Coffee Cake offers a mix of macronutrients. It contains carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. Each plays an important role in your diet. Here’s a closer look:
- Carbohydrates: About 40 grams per serving. These provide quick energy.
- Protein: Roughly 8 grams per serving. Ricotta cheese boosts protein content.
- Fats: Around 10 grams per serving. Most fats come from butter and cheese.
The following table summarizes the macronutrient values:
Macronutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Carbohydrates | 40 g |
Protein | 8 g |
Fat | 10 g |
Understanding the macronutrient breakdown helps you see how Ricotta Coffee Cake fits into your diet. It can be a delicious part of a balanced meal plan.