Italian Love Cake

Italian Love Cake is a delightful dessert that’s both indulgent and surprisingly easy to make. It features layers of rich chocolate cake, sweetened ricotta cheese, and a creamy pudding layer that comes together beautifully. This cake is perfect for celebrations or a simple, sweet treat for any day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unique Texture: The layers of cake, ricotta, and pudding give this dessert a delicious variety of textures, from the fluffy cake to the smooth filling.
• Sweet and Tangy Flavor: The chocolate cake provides sweetness, while the ricotta adds a slight tang, making every bite perfectly balanced.
• Simple Ingredients: You don’t need anything fancy for this cake. Most ingredients are pantry staples, and the result looks like you spent hours in the kitchen!
• Perfect for Special Occasions: Its stunning layered appearance makes it an ideal dessert for special gatherings or holidays.
• Easy to Make Ahead: You can prepare this cake in advance, allowing the flavors to meld and develop even more overnight.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Chocolate cake mix
• Ricotta cheese
• Granulated sugar
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract
• Instant vanilla pudding mix
• Cold milk
• Whipped topping (like Cool Whip)

Directions

1. Prepare the Cake Batter: Start by preparing the chocolate cake batter according to the instructions on the box.
2. Make the Ricotta Mixture: In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Layer the Cake: Pour the cake batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Gently spoon the ricotta mixture over the cake batter. Don’t worry if it looks uneven; the layers will switch during baking.
4. Bake: Bake the cake at 350°F (175°C) for about 1 hour or until the cake is set and firm to the touch.
5. Prepare the Pudding: While the cake cools, mix the instant vanilla pudding mix with cold milk, whisking until it thickens. Fold in the whipped topping.
6. Top the Cake: Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the pudding mixture over the top of the cake.
7. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the cake for several hours or overnight before serving. This allows the layers to set and the flavors to meld together.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe typically yields 12 servings.
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Chill Time: 4 hours or overnight
• Total Time: 5 hours 15 minutes (including chilling time)

Variations

• Flavor Twist: Try using a different flavor of pudding, such as chocolate or pistachio, for a fun twist.
• Fruit Add-ins: Fold in chopped strawberries or raspberries into the ricotta mixture for a fruity variation.
• Different Cake Mixes: While the classic recipe uses chocolate cake mix, you can experiment with vanilla or marble cake mix.
• Lemon Ricotta Love Cake: Swap the chocolate cake mix for a lemon cake mix, and use lemon pudding for a bright, citrusy version.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Reheating: This cake is best served cold, but if you want to enjoy it warm, you can microwave individual slices for 10-15 seconds.

FAQs

How do the layers switch while baking?

During baking, the heavier ricotta layer sinks, and the lighter cake batter rises, creating the signature layers.

Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of store-bought topping?

Yes, homemade whipped cream can be used as a substitute for whipped topping. Just be sure to stabilize it if you’re making the cake in advance.

Can I freeze Italian Love Cake?

Yes, you can freeze it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

You can use a gluten-free chocolate cake mix to make this recipe gluten-free.

Do I need to drain the ricotta cheese?

No, there’s no need to drain the ricotta for this recipe. Just ensure it’s fresh and well-mixed with the other ingredients.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, making it a day ahead allows the flavors to develop and improves the texture.

Why is my ricotta layer runny?

If your ricotta layer is too runny, it could be due to excess moisture in the ricotta. Make sure to mix it well with the other ingredients.

Can I add chocolate chips to the cake?

Yes, adding chocolate chips to the cake batter or the ricotta mixture will give the cake extra texture and sweetness.

How long should I refrigerate the cake before serving?

It’s best to refrigerate the cake for at least 4 hours, but overnight is ideal for the best texture and flavor.

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of ricotta?

Mascarpone can be used as a substitute for ricotta, but it will result in a slightly richer flavor and texture.

Conclusion

Italian Love Cake is a show-stopping dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. With its delicious layers of chocolate cake, creamy ricotta, and light pudding topping, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just because, this cake is a delightful way to share the love!

Print