If you have a soft spot for creamy, luscious desserts that feel like a warm hug from Italy, this Ricotta Pie Recipe will become one of your all-time favorites. Imagine a delicate, lightly sweetened ricotta filling, subtly flavoured with vanilla, cinnamon, and a hint of lemon zest, baked to perfection in a buttery pie crust that crisps just enough around the edges. Whether you choose to add mini chocolate chips for a touch of indulgence or candied orange peel for a citrusy twist, every bite promises a velvety texture and a symphony of flavours that is utterly comforting yet delightfully elegant.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Ricotta Pie Recipe relies on a handful of simple ingredients, each playing a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of creamy texture, subtle sweetness, and inviting aroma. Every component is thoughtfully selected to bring out that classic Italian charm we all love.
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust: Provides the crisp, buttery base that holds the filling beautifully.
- 2 cups ricotta cheese: The star ingredient delivering the rich, creamy texture essential to the pie.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds the ideal level of sweetness, keeping the filling moist and smooth.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients together and give the pie its light, custard-like structure.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the filling with a warm, aromatic depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional): Introduces a hint of nutty sophistication if you’re feeling adventurous.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and intensifies the overall flavour.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds a mild spice that complements the creamy ricotta beautifully.
- Zest of 1 lemon: Brings a refreshing brightness and lifts the richness.
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips or candied orange peel (optional): Provides bursts of extra flavor and texture, personalizing your pie.
How to Make Ricotta Pie Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This ensures the pie will bake evenly from the moment it goes in. Meanwhile, have your unbaked pie crust ready in a 9-inch pie dish. If you like, lightly prick the bottom with a fork to prevent bubbling during baking.
Step 2: Mix the Filling
In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese and granulated sugar, mixing them until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, blending thoroughly to create a creamy, velvety base. Stir in the vanilla extract, optional almond extract, salt, ground cinnamon, and lemon zest. These add complexity and balance to the filling. If you want to add chocolate chips or candied orange peel, gently fold them in now for delightful surprises in every slice.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
Pour your luscious ricotta mixture into the prepared pie crust, smoothing the top with a spatula for a beautiful, even surface. This is the moment your kitchen starts smelling like an Italian bakery, so take a deep breath and enjoy it!
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top has turned a light golden colour. Resist the temptation to open the oven too often; gentle heat means a perfectly tender pie. The filling should still have a slight wobble in the center, which will firm up as it cools.
Step 5: Cool and Chill
Allow the pie to cool to room temperature on a wire rack. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 2 hours to let all the flavours meld together and the texture fully develop. This wait is worth every minute, promise!
How to Serve Ricotta Pie Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Ricotta Pie Recipe presentation, consider dusting the top with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar just before serving. Fresh berries, a drizzle of honey, or a sprig of mint can also add a lovely contrast of colour and freshness that complements the creamy filling.
Side Dishes
This pie pairs beautifully with robust coffee or a glass of dessert wine. Fresh fruit salad or a scoop of vanilla gelato on the side can create a perfect balance, making your dessert feel refreshingly complete without overwhelming the delicate flavours.
Creative Ways to Present
For an impressive twist, try serving individual portions of the Ricotta Pie Recipe in mini tart shells. Alternatively, layering the filling over toasted sponge cake with a touch of jam underneath creates a delightful ricotta trifle that’s perfect for gatherings and celebrations.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover ricotta pie should be covered tightly with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container and refrigerated. It will keep well for 3 to 4 days while maintaining its creamy texture and delicate flavour.
Freezing
To freeze, wrap the whole pie or individual slices securely in plastic wrap followed by foil. Frozen ricotta pie can last up to 2 months in the freezer. Thaw slowly overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture.
Reheating
It’s best to enjoy this pie chilled or at room temperature, but if you prefer it warm, gently reheat individual slices in the oven at 300°F for 10 to 15 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can change the texture and cause the filling to become rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use low-fat ricotta for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute low-fat ricotta, but keep in mind that the texture might be less creamy and the pie slightly less rich. The classic version shines with full-fat ricotta for that indulgent mouthfeel.
Is almond extract necessary?
No, almond extract is completely optional. It adds a subtle nuttiness that pairs well with ricotta, but the vanilla and lemon zest alone create plenty of delicious flavour.
How can I make the pie more light and fluffy?
Sifting the ricotta before mixing can lighten the filling. Also, be careful not to overbeat the eggs to maintain a tender, custard-like consistency.
Can I make this pie ahead of a party?
Absolutely! This pie tastes even better after chilling for several hours or overnight, making it an excellent make-ahead dessert for gatherings.
What are some good toppings for the pie?
Powdered sugar, fresh berries, whipped cream, or a drizzle of honey all elevate the pie’s flavour without overpowering its subtle sweetness.
Final Thoughts
Give this Ricotta Pie Recipe a try the next time you want a dessert that feels both comforting and a little special. Its creamy texture and gentle flavours make it perfect for any occasion, whether a casual family dinner or a festive celebration. Trust me, once you bake this pie, it will hold a special place in your heart and kitchen!
Print
Ricotta Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This classic Italian Ricotta Pie is a creamy, rich dessert featuring a smooth ricotta cheese filling spiced with cinnamon and lemon zest, baked to perfection in a flaky pie crust. Whether served chilled or at room temperature, it makes a delightful holiday or family gathering treat with optional mini chocolate chips or candied orange peel adding a touch of sweetness and texture.
Ingredients
Pie Crust
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust
Filling
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- zest of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips or candied orange peel (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the pie.
- Mix Filling: In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, almond extract if using, salt, ground cinnamon, and lemon zest. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add Optional Ingredients: Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips or candied orange peel if you choose to use these for added flavor and texture.
- Assemble Pie: Pour the prepared filling into the unbaked 9-inch pie crust, smoothing the top evenly with a spatula.
- Bake: Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is lightly golden brown.
- Cool: Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool completely to room temperature on a wire rack.
- Refrigerate: Once cooled, refrigerate the pie for at least 2 hours to let the flavors develop and the filling to firm up.
- Serve: Serve chilled or at room temperature. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar before serving for an elegant finish.
Notes
- Sifting the ricotta before mixing can result in a lighter, smoother texture.
- Chocolate chips or candied orange peel add complementary flavors but can be omitted for a traditional version.
- Serve chilled for a refreshing dessert or at room temperature for a creamier experience.
- Dust with powdered sugar for an attractive presentation.
