Description
This Sweet & Creamy Italian Ricotta Pie is a luscious dessert featuring a velvety ricotta cheese filling lightly flavored with vanilla, lemon zest, and almond extract, baked to a golden perfection inside a crisp 9-inch pie crust. Perfect for any occasion, this classic Italian treat is simple to prepare yet irresistibly delicious.
Ingredients
Scale
Filling
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
Crust
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust
Topping (optional)
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and allow it to fully heat while you prepare the filling.
- Mix ricotta and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese and granulated sugar. Stir or beat until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Add eggs gradually: Incorporate the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This ensures the filling stays silky and well blended for a smooth texture.
- Flavor the filling: Stir in the vanilla extract, lemon zest, and almond extract thoroughly until the flavors are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Fill the crust: Pour the prepared ricotta filling into the unbaked 9-inch pie crust, spreading it out evenly with a spatula or spoon.
- Bake the pie: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. The pie is done when the center is set and the top has a light golden color.
- Cool the pie: Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature to allow the filling to firm up.
- Optional finishing touch: Before serving, dust the top of the pie with powdered sugar for an elegant and sweet finish.
Notes
- Use full-fat ricotta cheese for the creamiest texture.
- If you prefer a hint of citrus, fresh lemon zest adds a bright flavor.
- Make sure the eggs are at room temperature to blend more evenly into the filling.
- Allow pie to cool completely or chill in the refrigerator for a firmer slice.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
