This Apple Ricotta Cake is a delightful twist on classic apple cake recipes, offering a moist and tender crumb with a delicate sweetness. You’ll love how easy it is to bake this impressive dessert, perfect for any occasion.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Apples: Use firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for best flavor.
- Ricotta Cheese: Whole milk ricotta provides the best texture and richness.
- Flour: All-purpose flour works perfectly. A gluten-free 1:1 baking blend can be used.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar is ideal. You can adjust the amount slightly to your taste.
- Eggs: Large eggs are standard.
- Baking Powder: Ensures a light and airy texture.
- Vanilla Extract: Essential for flavor.
Ingredients:
Main:
- 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional:
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (for apples, to prevent browning)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for apples)
- Powdered sugar for dusting
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Servings: 8
- Tools Needed: 9-inch round cake pan, mixing bowls, whisk, electric mixer (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Apples
Peel, core, and dice your apples. If you like, toss them with lemon juice to prevent browning and a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor. Set them aside while you prepare the batter.
2. Whisk Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Make sure these are well combined to ensure even leavening in your apple ricotta cake.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step incorporates air, making your cake tender.
4. Add Eggs and Ricotta
Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, add the ricotta cheese and vanilla extract, mixing until just combined. Don’t overmix at this stage.
5. Combine Wet and Dry
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed or by hand until just incorporated. Be careful not to overmix the batter, which can lead to a tough cake.
6. Fold in Apples
Gently fold in the diced apples until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter. This ensures every slice of your apple cake has delicious fruit.
7. Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into a greased and floured 9-inch round cake pan. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 50-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool and Serve
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar before serving, if desired, to make your apple ricotta cake extra special.
Variation Ideas:
- Nutty Twist: Add ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter with the apples.
- Citrus Zest: Include 1 tablespoon of lemon or orange zest in the batter for a brighter flavor.
- Spice It Up: Add ½ teaspoon of nutmeg or a pinch of ground cloves to the dry ingredients for more warmth.
Storage Instructions:
Store your leftover Apple Ricotta Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can warm individual slices slightly in the microwave for a fresh-baked taste.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
- Can I use low-fat ricotta? While you can, whole milk ricotta provides a richer flavor and moister texture.
- Do I have to peel the apples? It’s recommended for a smoother texture, but you can leave the peel on if you prefer.
- My cake is browning too quickly, what should I do? If the top is browning too fast, you can lightly tent it with aluminum foil during the last part of baking.
- Can I make this as muffins? Yes, you can bake the batter in a muffin tin, reducing the baking time to about 20-25 minutes.
- What kind of apples are best for apple cake recipes? Tart, firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work wonderfully as they hold their shape and provide good flavor.
- Can I freeze this apple ricotta cake? Yes, you can freeze cooled cake slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature.