Gather these ingredients to make your Italian Love Cake:
- Cake Layer:
- 1 box chocolate cake mix (plus eggs, oil, and water as called for on the box)
- Ricotta Layer:
- 2 lbs ricotta cheese
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Topping:
- 1 (3.9 oz) box instant chocolate pudding mix
- 1 1/2 cups cold milk
- 1 cup whipped topping (or whipped cream)
Directions
Follow these easy steps to make the Italian Love Cake:
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Step 2: Prepare the chocolate cake mix according to the package directions, then pour the batter into the prepared pan.
- Step 3: In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until well mixed.
- Step 4: Spoon the ricotta mixture over the chocolate cake batter. Don’t worry if it sinks while baking.
- Step 5: Bake the cake for 55–60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Step 6: Cool the cake completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- Step 7: In a separate bowl, whisk together the pudding mix and cold milk until thickened. Then gently fold in the whipped topping.
- Step 8: Spread the pudding topping evenly over the cooled cake and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, for best results.
Nutritional Information
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Baking Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: ~5 hours (including chilling)
- Calories: ~370 per slice
- Servings: 12
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use homemade chocolate cake instead of a boxed mix?
Absolutely! A homemade chocolate cake can enhance the flavor of your Italian Love Cake.
2. Is there a substitute for ricotta cheese?
You can use cottage cheese as an alternative, but the texture will differ. Blending it until smooth can help mimic ricotta’s creaminess.
3. Can the pudding topping be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pudding topping in advance, but it’s best to add it to the cake shortly before serving to maintain its fluffiness.
4. How should I store leftover cake?
Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure it is chilled well to maintain freshness.
5. Can I freeze the Italian Love Cake?
Yes, you can freeze the cake before adding the pudding layer. Wrap it tightly and store for up to a month. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Conclusion
Italian Love Cake is a deliciously unique dessert that will enchant anyone who tries it. Its combination of chocolate and ricotta creates a delightful experience that’s both satisfying and elegant. With easy steps and tips, you can make this cake a memorable treat for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to share your experiences and personal variations—happy baking!
