Ricotta and Raisin Cake

Description of this recipe
This delightful Ricotta and Raisin Cake is a moist, tender dessert that combines the creamy richness of ricotta cheese with the sweet, chewy texture of raisins. It is a simple yet satisfying cake that is perfect for any occasion, from casual family gatherings to elegant tea parties. The cake is lightly flavored with a hint of vanilla and citrus, making it a versatile treat that pairs well with coffee or tea.

Why you will love this recipe
You will love this Ricotta and Raisin Cake for its incredible flavor and texture. The ricotta cheese makes the cake moist and adds a subtle creaminess, while the raisins provide bursts of sweetness in every bite. This cake is easy to prepare, requiring just a few simple ingredients, and it can be enjoyed as a dessert, a snack, or even for breakfast. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up any leftover ricotta cheese you may have in your fridge!

Introduction

Baking is an art that brings joy to both the baker and those who indulge in the final product. One of the most rewarding experiences in the kitchen is whipping up a cake that not only tastes divine but also fills your home with a warm, inviting aroma. The Ricotta and Raisin Cake embodies this sentiment perfectly. With its rich, moist texture and a hint of sweetness from the raisins, this cake is a delightful treat that is sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you are an experienced baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward and forgiving, allowing you to create a delicious dessert with ease.

Ingredients:

• 150 g all-purpose flour (about 5 tablespoons, leveled)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 80 g unsalted butter, softened
• 250 g ricotta cheese
• 100 g raisins (preferably golden for a touch of elegance)
• 100 g granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 lemon (optional, for added flavor)
• A pinch of salt

Preparation:

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a round cake pan (approximately 8 inches in diameter) and line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. This step is crucial for incorporating air into the batter, which will help the cake rise beautifully.

Step 3: Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the ricotta cheese, vanilla extract, and lemon zest (if using). Mix until everything is well combined and smooth.

Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense cake.

Step 5: Gently fold in the raisins with a spatula, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

COOKING Rating:

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5) – This recipe is easy to follow and yields a delicious result that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Serving Suggestions:

Serve this Ricotta and Raisin Cake dusted with powdered sugar for a simple presentation, or pair it with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh berries for a more indulgent dessert. It also makes for a lovely snack with a cup of tea or coffee. For a festive touch, consider drizzling a light lemon glaze over the top before serving.Tips:

• For an extra layer of flavor, try soaking the raisins in warm water or rum for about 15 minutes before adding them to the batter. This will plump them up and enhance their sweetness.
• If you prefer a lighter version of this cake, you can substitute half of the ricotta cheese with Greek yogurt.
• Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
• This cake can also be frozen. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It will keep well for up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Prep Time:

15 minutes

Cook Time:

35 minutes

Total Time:

50 minutes

Nutritional Information (per slice, based on 8 servings):

• Calories: 220
• Protein: 5 g
• Sodium: 150 mg

Conclusion

The Ricotta and Raisin Cake is a perfect blend of simplicity and elegance, making it an ideal dessert for any occasion. With its moist texture and delightful flavor profile, it’s sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Whether enjoyed alone or shared with loved ones, this cake is a testament to the joy of home baking. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and treat yourself to a slice of this heavenly cake!

Questions and Answers about this recipe

1. Can I use a different type of cheese instead of ricotta?
Yes! While ricotta is the star of this recipe, you could substitute it with mascarpone or cottage cheese for a different flavor and texture. Just be mindful of the moisture content.

2. How can I make this cake gluten-free?
To make this cake gluten-free, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the blend you choose has a good binding agent, such as xanthan gum, for the best results.

3. Can I add other fruits to this cake?
Absolutely! You can incorporate other dried fruits like cranberries or chopped nuts for added texture. Just keep in mind that the moisture content may vary, so adjust accordingly.

4. What can I do if my cake sinks in the middle?
A sinking cake can be caused by overmixing the batter or not properly measuring the ingredients. Ensure you mix just until combined and avoid opening the oven door while baking to maintain a consistent temperature.

5. Is this cake suitable for freezing?
Yes, this cake freezes well! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.