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Two vintage, handwritten recipe cards on lined paper are placed on a rustic wooden surface. The top card lists ingredients for "Italian Ricotta Cake" in blue ink, and the second card contains preparation instructions and additional ingredients in matching handwriting.
Italian Ricotta Cake is a cherished no-bake dessert passed down through generations, especially in Italian-American households. Traditionally made with ricotta cheese, ladyfingers, and a medley of sweet, rich ingredients like crème de cacao and chocolate chips, this cake resembles a layered tiramisu but with a creamy ricotta twist. It's a festive treat served during holidays, family gatherings, and special occasions, beloved for its light yet indulgent texture and old-world charm.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Chill Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 25 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American, Italian
Servings 12
Calories 455 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pkg ladyfingers
  • 2 lbs ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup crème de cacao
  • 1/4 cup sweet chocolate chips (or 2 Hershey bars, chopped)
  • 1/4 cup candied fruit (optional)
  • 1 pkg Dream Whip (or similar whipped topping)
  • 1/2 pint heavy whipping cream

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare Whipped Topping

  • Whip 1 package of Dream Whip with 1/2 pint of heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.

Step 2: Make Ricotta Mixture

  • In a bowl, whip ricotta cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla. Blend in crème de cacao.

Step 3: Add Chocolate and Fruit

  • Fold in chocolate chips (or chopped Hershey bars) and candied fruit, if using.

Step 4: Layer the Cake

  • Place a layer of ladyfingers in an 11"x8" pan. Spread a layer of ricotta mixture over the ladyfingers. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, ending with ricotta mixture.

Step 5: Top with Whipped Cream

  • Spread prepared whipped topping over the final layer. Garnish with grated chocolate, sprinkles, or mint leaves if desired.

Step 6: Chill

  • Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.

Tips

  • Substitute mascarpone for a richer flavor.
  • Use espresso-dipped ladyfingers for a tiramisu twist.
  • Add a splash of orange liqueur for a citrus note.
  • For a lighter version, use part-skim ricotta and low-fat whipped topping.

Nutrition

Calories: 455kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 13gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gTrans Fat: 0.003gCholesterol: 134mgSodium: 134mgPotassium: 176mgFiber: 1gSugar: 20gVitamin A: 829IUVitamin C: 0.2mgCalcium: 207mgIron: 2mg
Keyword chocolate, holidays, no-bake, ricotta
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