Strawberry ricotta cake

There is something so comforting about a cake that feels both rustic and elegant at the same time, and this strawberry ricotta cake brings that magic in the sweetest way. The aroma of warm strawberries and creamy ricotta fills the kitchen as it bakes, and each slice comes out tender, moist, and beautifully speckled with bursts of berry flavor. Trust me, you’re going to love this, because it is the kind of dessert that feels effortless yet unforgettable.

Behind the Recipe

This cake was inspired by those simple European style bakes that rely on wholesome ingredients and gentle sweetness. One afternoon I had fresh strawberries on the counter and ricotta leftover from another recipe, so I decided to combine them. The result was a total game changer, a cake that tastes like sunshine and comfort in one bite.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Ricotta cakes have roots in Italian baking traditions where ricotta is used to create tender, moist textures without needing heavy creams. Adding strawberries is a modern twist that captures seasonal freshness. This blend of old world charm and bright berry flavor makes it a timeless treat enjoyed worldwide.

Why You’ll Love Strawberry Ricotta Cake

Before we get swept up in the mixing bowl, here is what makes this cake something special.

Versatile: Serve it for breakfast, dessert, or brunch which makes it perfect for any time of day.
Budget-Friendly: Uses simple ingredients that are easy to find and affordable.
Quick and Easy: The batter comes together in minutes without complicated steps.
Customizable: Swap berries, add citrus zest, or include a dusting of powdered sugar.
Crowd-Pleasing: Everyone loves its soft, moist crumb and fruity flavor.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Stays moist for days which makes it ideal for advance baking.
Great for Leftovers: Its flavor deepens as it rests which makes leftover slices even better.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Before we dive into mixing, here are a few insights that keep this cake consistently amazing.

1. Use room temperature ricotta and eggs which creates a smoother batter.
2. Toss strawberries lightly in flour to keep them from sinking too much.
3. Do not overmix, otherwise the cake may become dense instead of tender.
4. Let the cake cool fully so the texture sets beautifully.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

You will not need anything complicated which is part of the charm of this recipe.

Mixing Bowls: For combining the dry and wet ingredients.
Electric Mixer: Helps incorporate ricotta smoothly.
Rubber Spatula: Ideal for folding in strawberries gently.
9 Inch Cake Pan: Ensures even baking.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accuracy and consistency.

Ingredients in Strawberry Ricotta Cake

Each ingredient plays a role in creating a cake that is moist, fragrant, and perfectly balanced. Together they create a harmony of sweet berries and creamy softness.

1. All Purpose Flour: 1 and a half cups, forms the tender structure of the cake.
2. Baking Powder: 2 teaspoons, helps the cake rise evenly.
3. Salt: 1 pinch, enhances sweetness and flavor.
4. Granulated Sugar: 1 cup, adds balanced sweetness.
5. Ricotta Cheese: 1 cup, creates a moist and creamy crumb.
6. Eggs: 3 large, bind the batter and add richness.
7. Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon, adds warmth and aroma.
8. Melted Butter: 1 half cup, adds flavor and moisture.
9. Fresh Strawberries: 1 and a half cups chopped, provide juicy bursts of flavor.
10. Powdered Sugar: For dusting, adds a delicate finishing touch.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you need some flexibility, these easy swaps will help.

Ricotta Cheese: Cottage cheese blended until smooth.
Butter: Use neutral oil like sunflower or canola.
Strawberries: Raspberries or blueberries work beautifully too.
Sugar: Coconut sugar creates a deeper caramel note.

Ingredient Spotlight

Ricotta Cheese: Gives the cake its signature moist, delicate crumb and a subtle creaminess that feels luxurious.
Strawberries: When baked, they soften and release their natural juices which swirl into the cake for beautiful flavor pockets.

Instructions for Making Strawberry Ricotta Cake

Before we jump into the steps, imagine the cozy smell of strawberries and vanilla wafting through your kitchen. Now let’s make the magic happen.

1. Preheat Your Equipment: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and grease a 9 inch cake pan.
2. Combine Ingredients: Whisk flour, baking powder, and salt in one bowl. In another bowl beat sugar, ricotta, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla until smooth.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Lightly flour the cake pan or line it with parchment for easy release.
4. Assemble the Dish: Fold dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Toss strawberries in a bit of flour and fold them in gently. Pour the batter into the pan.
5. Cook to Perfection: Bake for 45 to 55 minutes until golden and the center springs back lightly.
6. Finishing Touches: Cool completely, then dust with powdered sugar.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Slice and enjoy the soft, berry filled goodness.

Texture and Flavor Secrets

This cake is moist and tender because the ricotta adds creamy richness while the strawberries create juicy pockets throughout. The edges become slightly crisp while the center stays soft, creating a perfect balance of textures and flavors.

Cooking Tips and Tricks

Here are a few little boosts to help your cake turn out beautifully.

• Use fresh strawberries for the juiciest flavor.
• Allow the cake to cool fully so slices come out clean.
• A sprinkle of lemon zest adds brightness.

What to Avoid

Even simple cakes like this have a few pitfalls to steer clear of.

• Do not use watery ricotta because it can make the cake too dense.
• Avoid cutting the cake while warm or it may crumble.
• Do not overbake, or the cake may dry out.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 8
Calories per serving: 290

Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This cake gets even better the next day which makes it ideal for preparing ahead. Store at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate for four days. Freeze slices individually for up to two months and thaw at room temperature.

How to Serve Strawberry Ricotta Cake

Serve it with fresh berries, a light dusting of powdered sugar, whipped cream, or even a scoop of vanilla gelato. It pairs beautifully with tea, coffee, or a light brunch spread.

Creative Leftover Transformations

Leftovers can be even more fun.

• Toast slices lightly and top with butter and honey.
• Layer pieces into a strawberry parfait.
• Crumble leftovers into yogurt for a sweet breakfast.

Additional Tips

Add a pinch of cinnamon for warmth or swirl in a spoonful of strawberry jam for extra fruit flavor. Using parchment paper helps ensure clean removal from the pan.

Make It a Showstopper

Top the cake with halved strawberries arranged in a circle, dust with powdered sugar, and serve it on a simple cake stand for a bakery worthy presentation.

Variations to Try

Here are some delicious twists you might enjoy.

1. Lemon Ricotta Strawberry Cake with zest mixed into the batter.
2. Mixed Berry Ricotta Cake using raspberries and blueberries.
3. Chocolate Chip Ricotta Cake with mini chocolate chips.
4. Almond Ricotta Cake by adding almond extract.
5. Strawberry Swirl Ricotta Cake using strawberry puree.

FAQ’s

1. Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, but thaw and pat dry them first to avoid excess moisture.

2. Can I replace ricotta?

Smooth blended cottage cheese works well.

3. Can I make this cake gluten free?

Use a 1 to 1 gluten free flour blend.

4. Why is my cake dense?

Overmixing or using watery ricotta can cause density.

5. Can I add lemon?

Yes, lemon zest is wonderful in this recipe.

6. Can I bake this in a loaf pan?

Yes, but the baking time may increase slightly.

7. How do I store leftovers?

Store airtight at room temperature or refrigerate.

8. Can I use brown sugar?

Yes, but the texture will be slightly different.

9. Why did my strawberries sink?

Tossing them in flour helps prevent sinking.

10. Can I double this recipe?

Yes, use a larger pan or two cake pans.

Conclusion

This strawberry ricotta cake is soft, tender, and filled with bright berry flavor. It feels cozy yet elegant which makes it perfect for any occasion. Let me tell you, it is worth every bite and a wonderful recipe to add to your baking favorites.

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