Sweet Italian Ricotta Pie

Sweet Italian Ricotta Pie: A Slice of Nostalgia

The Sweet Italian Ricotta Pie is the epitome of indulgence, cascading rich flavors and soft, creamy textures that whisk you back to cherished family gatherings. This dessert embodies warmth and togetherness, inviting you to fill your home with its delightful aroma as it bakes. Made with luscious ricotta cheese and a buttery, flaky crust, this pie is both comforting and reminiscent of childhood memories shared around the kitchen table.

Whether you’re whipping it up for a special occasion or a simple weeknight treat, this dessert strikes the perfect balance between elegance and nostalgia. It’s deceptively simple to create, making it a go-to recipe for both seasoned bakers and those new to the kitchen. The Sweet Italian Ricotta Pie is undeniably worth the effort, inviting you to indulge in every gooey, creamy bite.

What’s Your Sweetest Memory?

Think back to those moments where dessert was more than just a treat; it was a celebration of life. Picture family gatherings, giggles from children relishing in their sugary delights with mouths full of pie, and the way laughter fills the air.

What’s your favorite decadent dessert that brings you joy? If you haven’t yet tasted the magical Sweet Italian Ricotta Pie, imagine the bliss of biting into a slice — smooth ricotta enveloped in a buttery crust, each forkful evoking smiles and contentment.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are many reasons to fall head over heels for Sweet Italian Ricotta Pie.

Fast and Easy Prep: With straightforward steps that make it accessible for everyone, this pie doesn’t require baking expertise.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, parties, or any celebration, it’s a dessert that everyone will love.
Minimal Ingredients: While it tastes decadent, it uses simple, everyday ingredients you may already have in your pantry.

This dessert is a culinary dream that brings joyous flavors to your table without overwhelming preparations.

Ingredients

To make this luxurious Sweet Italian Ricotta Pie, you’ll need the following ingredients:

3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour: Provides the foundation for your buttery crust.
½ cup (60g) powdered sugar: Adds sweetness and fine texture to the crust.
½ teaspoon baking powder: Helps the crust achieve a light and flaky quality.
1 teaspoon lemon zest: Infuses a bright, zesty flavor that perfectly complements the ricotta.
½ teaspoon salt: Elevates the overall flavor of both crust and filling.
1 cup (226g) unsalted butter: The star of the crust, creating a rich, velvety texture.
2 large eggs: Binds the ingredients together beautifully.
32 ounces (905g) whole-milk ricotta: Rich in flavor, this creamy cheese is the heart of the pie.
¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar: Sweetens the ricotta and balances its creaminess.
4 large eggs: Additional binding and structure for the pie filling.
1 teaspoon lemon juice: Enhances the flavor with a slight tang.
1 teaspoon lemon zest: Reiterates that zesty punch for added depth.
⅛ teaspoon almond extract: Introduces a deep, aromatic layer to the overall flavor.
1 egg mixed with water for egg wash: Gives the pie its golden-brown finish.

Imagine the symphony of these ingredients coming together, each one adding to the rich tapestry of flavors and textures in this classic Italian dessert!

Timing

Preparing this Sweet Italian Ricotta Pie is a delightful blend of fast indulgence and slow pleasure.

Although the active preparation time is around 45 minutes, the magic truly happens as the pie bakes. It requires about 40-50 minutes in the oven, slowly transforming raw ingredients into a golden masterpiece. Patience is key!

Once cooled, let it rest for a couple of hours to enhance its flavors before diving in! This waiting period allows the pie to settle and firm up just enough for the most divine slices.

Step-by-Step

Creating the Sweet Italian Ricotta Pie is like crafting a masterpiece, step by step. Let’s dive into this delectable adventure.

In a food processor, combine 3 cups of all-purpose flour, ½ cup powdered sugar, ½ teaspoon baking powder, 1 teaspoon lemon zest, and ½ teaspoon salt. This dry mixture lays the foundation for a perfect pie crust.
Add 1 cup of unsalted butter and pulse until the mixture resembles tiny pebbles, with small bits of butter present—a crucial step for achieving that desired flakiness.
With the motor running, add 2 large eggs, processing until the dough forms a cohesive ball.
Divide the dough in half and roll one half into an 11-inch circle for the bottom crust. Carefully place it into a 9-inch deep-dish pie plate and pierce with a fork to prevent bubbling. Freeze the crust while you work on the top.
Roll the second half into a 10-inch circle and refrigerate.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line the frozen crust with parchment paper and fill with pie weights. Bake for 20 minutes, then remove weights and parchment, baking for 5 more minutes. Allow it to cool for 15 minutes.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk the strained ricotta until light and fluffy. Gradually add ¾ cup granulated sugar, 4 large eggs, 1 teaspoon lemon juice, 1 teaspoon lemon zest, and ⅛ teaspoon almond extract. Mix until combined, radiating that creamy goodness.
Pour the luscious ricotta mixture into the cooled crust.
For the top crust, score a beautiful lattice pattern using a fork. Brush the edges with the prepared egg wash and gently place the top crust over the creamy filling, sealing the edges with care.
Bake your pie for 40-50 minutes, until it’s golden brown and the filling has puffed slightly in the center.
Cool for 2 hours, allowing the flavors to intermingle and the texture to set before slicing into a blissful piece.

The entire process paints a mouthwatering picture as you move through the steps, anticipating the sweet and gooey indulgence you’ve just created!

Nutritional Information

Indulging in a slice of Sweet Italian Ricotta Pie comes with a caloric appreciation, as each slice holds approximately 300-400 calories.

While it’s best to embrace the occasional indulgence, this pie brings satisfaction without the guilt of daily desserts.

Healthier Alternatives

For those looking to swap out some ingredients while still enjoying the deliciousness of this classic dessert, consider these healthier alternatives:

Low-sugar options can be achieved by reducing the sugar content or using a sugar substitute.
For a dairy-free version, swap whole-milk ricotta with almond, soy, or coconut-based ricotta. Ensure to check the sweetness levels to balance the filling.
Consider using whole wheat flour for added fiber while maintaining that delightful crust texture.

Making healthier choices doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor — get creative and relax with these adaptations!

Serving Suggestions

Sweet Italian Ricotta Pie isn’t just for tranquil evenings at home; it can elevate any occasion:

Serve it warm, dusted with powdered sugar, and topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
It makes an exquisite addition to holiday feasts, providing a sweet end to Italian dinner celebrations.
Consider pairing it with fresh berries or a drizzle of berry compote to enhance flavor and aesthetics.

This pie brings celebrations to life with each luscious slice!

Common Mistakes

Avoid these common pitfalls when making your Sweet Italian Ricotta Pie:

Overbaking: Monitor your pie closely; overbaking can lead to a dry texture. It’s best to remove it from the oven when the filling is slightly wobbly.
Texture Issues: Not straining the ricotta can lead to a watery filling. Ensure it’s properly strained to achieve the creamy, velvety consistency it deserves.
Messy Crust: Using too much flour while rolling out dough can make for a tough crust. Lightly dust your surfaces instead, and always chill the dough adequately.

By steering clear of these pitfalls, you’ll ensure a fabulous dessert that impresses!

Storing Tips

Extend the enjoyment of your Sweet Italian Ricotta Pie by following these storing techniques:

Freezing Portions: Slice the pie into individual servings, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to three months.
Reheating Instructions: Let frozen slices thaw in the fridge overnight. For a quick warm-up, preheat your oven to 350°F and heat the slices for about 10-12 minutes until warmed through.

This pie’s flavors actually deepen over time, making it a delightful treat for easy desserts later on!

Tempting You to Bake It ASAP

If you’re eager to create an alluring dessert that enchants the senses and feeds the soul, the Sweet Italian Ricotta Pie awaits! Perfect for gatherings or just because, this creamy delight is divine and brings family and friends together.

Don’t let the opportunity pass by—embrace the joy of baking this classic pie today!

FAQs

How can I make the pie crust flakier?
Use cold butter and handle the dough minimally to keep it light and flaky.
Can I use a store-bought crust?
Absolutely! While homemade dough is delightful, a store-bought crust can save time and effort.
Is ricotta cheese gluten-free?
Yes, ricotta cheese is gluten-free, making this pie suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals when using gluten-free crust.
What can I pair this pie with?
Fresh fruit, whipped cream, or even a drizzle of chocolate sauce for those with a sweet tooth can pair beautifully.
How long does the pie last in the fridge?
The Sweet Italian Ricotta Pie will keep well in the fridge for about 5-7 days if properly stored.

With layers of flavor and texture, this pie promises to be a beloved addition to any dessert table. So gather your ingredients and start baking!