Sweet Italian Ricotta Pie: A Classic Delight

If there’s one dessert that transports me back to my grandmother’s kitchen, it’s Sweet Italian Ricotta Pie. With its creamy, lightly sweetened filling and delicate hints of citrus and spice, this pie is a celebration of simple, classic Italian flavors. Whether you’re gathering with family or looking for a comforting dessert to finish off a meal, this pie is sure to impress. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, even for beginners! Let’s dive into the recipe and see why it’s a must-try for your dessert repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Sweet Italian Ricotta Pie

This pie is nothing short of a showstopper, and there are plenty of reasons to love it:

• Incredibly Creamy Texture: Thanks to the ricotta cheese, every bite is velvety smooth and melts in your mouth.
• Delicate Sweetness: The blend of sugar, vanilla, and a touch of cinnamon offers just the right amount of sweetness without overpowering the palate.
• Zesty Citrus Note: The grated lemon zest adds a refreshing brightness, making each slice more irresistible than the last.
• Easy to Prepare: With a few simple ingredients and steps, this pie comes together quickly, making it perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros.
• Versatile: Serve it as a dessert for any occasion – from holiday feasts to a casual weekend treat.

Ingredients for Sweet Italian Ricotta Pie

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delectable dessert:

• 1 pre-made pie crust (9-inch)
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• Powdered sugar (for garnish)

Necessary Tools for Preparation

Before you get started, ensure you have the following tools on hand:

• A 9-inch pie dish
• A mixing bowl
• A whisk or electric mixer
• A spatula for smoothing the filling
• A toothpick for testing doneness
• Measuring cups and spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Sweet Italian Ricotta Pie

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pie Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the pre-made pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish. Trim any excess crust around the edges and use a fork to prick the bottom of the crust. This helps prevent bubbling during baking.

Step 2: Make the Ricotta Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, grated lemon zest, cinnamon, and all-purpose flour. Whisk everything together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. You want to ensure that there are no lumps for a perfect, even texture.

Step 3: Fill the Pie Crust

Pour the prepared filling into the pie crust, using a spatula to smooth out the top. Make sure the filling is evenly distributed for consistent baking.

Step 4: Bake

Place the pie in the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is a light golden color. To test for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center – if it comes out clean, your pie is ready!

Step 5: Cool and Garnish

Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely. Dust the top with powdered sugar for a beautiful, snowy finish that adds an extra touch of sweetness.

What to Serve with Sweet Italian Ricotta Pie

This ricotta pie is delicious on its own, but if you want to elevate the experience, consider pairing it with:

• Fresh Berries: The tartness of berries like raspberries or blueberries perfectly complements the creamy sweetness of the pie.
• Whipped Cream: A dollop of homemade whipped cream adds an airy, rich touch.
• Espresso: For an authentic Italian experience, serve with a shot of strong espresso.

Tips for Making the Perfect Ricotta Pie

• Use Whole Milk Ricotta: For the creamiest filling, opt for whole milk ricotta instead of part-skim. It adds richness and a luscious texture.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the pie towards the end of the baking time. Overbaking can cause the filling to crack or become dry.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Let your eggs and ricotta come to room temperature before mixing. This helps the ingredients combine more smoothly and evenly.

Storage Instructions

Leftover ricotta pie can be stored in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 4 days. For best results, let it come to room temperature before serving or enjoy it slightly chilled.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use homemade pie crust?

Absolutely! A homemade crust will add an extra layer of buttery flavor. Just be sure to blind bake it slightly to prevent sogginess.

Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Yes! This pie can be made a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and dust with powdered sugar just before serving.

Is there a substitute for ricotta cheese?

While ricotta is traditional, you can substitute it with cottage cheese (blended for smoothness) or mascarpone for a richer pie.

Conclusion

Sweet Italian Ricotta Pie is a dessert that embodies simplicity and tradition, making it a beloved choice for gatherings and quiet moments alike. Its creamy texture, gentle sweetness, and refreshing hint of lemon zest make every slice a little piece of heaven. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this pie is an easy yet impressive addition to your baking repertoire.

If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to check out our other Italian-inspired recipes:

• Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo Recipe
• Easy Creamy Tuscan Orzo
• Trader Joe’s Ricotta and Lemon Zest Ravioli with Burst Tomatoes and Burrata

I’d love to hear how your ricotta pie turns out! Leave a review below and share your photos on Pinterest. Happy baking!

Nutritional Information (Per Slice)

• Calories: 290 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Protein: 9g
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Cholesterol: 100mg
• Sodium: 180mg
• Sugar: 20g
• Calcium: 80mg

Enjoy every bite of this comforting classic! 😊

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