Save Experience the charm of Italian springtime with this Easter Sweet Ricotta Pie with Lemon Zest. A tender, flaky pastry crust cradles a luscious, creamy ricotta filling subtly sweetened and invigorated with the bright zest of fresh lemons. This dessert perfectly captures the spirit of celebration, blending tradition and freshness in every golden slice.
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This pie is a superb blend of texture and taste — the silky ricotta melded with lemon and vanilla offers a refreshing tang, while the pastry provides a comforting, buttery contrast. Whether you’re marking a holiday or simply indulging in a seasonal treat, it’s a dessert that invites sharing and savoring.
Ingredients
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- For the Pastry
- 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 large egg
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2–3 tbsp cold water
- For the Ricotta Filling
- 2 cups (500 g) whole milk ricotta cheese, well drained
- 3/4 cup (150 g) granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Zest of 2 lemons
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) heavy cream
- For Dusting
- Powdered sugar, for serving
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Instructions
- 1. Prepare the pastry base
- In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt for the pastry. Add cold butter and rub in with fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- 2. Form the dough
- Mix in the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla. Add water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until dough just comes together.
- 3. Chill the dough
- Shape dough into a disk, wrap in plastic, and chill for at least 30 minutes.
- 4. Preheat oven and prepare pan
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch (23 cm) pie or tart pan.
- 5. Roll out and chill pastry
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to fit the pan. Gently press into the bottom and up the sides. Trim excess. Prick base with a fork and chill for 10 minutes.
- 6. Prepare ricotta filling
- In a large bowl, whisk ricotta, sugar, eggs, vanilla, lemon zest, lemon juice, flour, salt, and cream until smooth.
- 7. Assemble pie
- Pour filling into the prepared pastry shell and smooth the top.
- 8. Bake
- Bake for 55–60 minutes, or until the filling is set and lightly golden. The center should have a slight wobble.
- 9. Cool and chill
- Cool completely on a wire rack. Chill for at least 2 hours before slicing.
- 10. Serve
- Dust with powdered sugar just before serving.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Für ein noch intensiveres Zitronenaroma können Sie Orangenschale zusammen mit der Zitronenschale hinzufügen. Die Kombination sorgt für eine festliche und frische Note, die wunderbar mit der cremigen Ricotta harmoniert.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Für eine glutenfreie Variante ersetzen Sie das Weizenmehl in der Kruste durch glutenfreies Mehl. Diese Anpassung ermöglicht es auch Allergikern, diesen traditionellen Genuss zu erleben, ohne auf den Geschmack zu verzichten.
Serviervorschläge
Garnieren Sie den frisch gekühlten Kuchen mit Puderzucker und frischen Beeren für eine farbenfrohe und appetitliche Präsentation, die ideal zu Frühlings- und Osterfesten passt.
Save This Easter Sweet Ricotta Pie with Lemon Zest is a delightful fusion of tradition and spring freshness. Its golden crust and zesty ricotta filling make it a memorable centerpiece for any festive table, inviting you to savor the joy of the season in every bite.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of cheese is used in the filling?
Whole milk ricotta cheese provides a creamy and smooth texture vital for the filling's structure.
- → How does lemon zest affect the filling?
Lemon zest adds bright citrus notes that balance the sweetness and enrich the flavor profile.
- → Can I substitute gluten-free flour for the crust?
Yes, gluten-free flour can be used to accommodate dietary needs without compromising texture significantly.
- → What is the ideal baking temperature and time?
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 55 to 60 minutes until the filling is set and the crust is golden.
- → How should I cool and serve this dish?
Cool completely on a wire rack, then chill for at least two hours before slicing and dusting with powdered sugar.
- → Are there any suggested garnishes?
Fresh berries can be added for a festive and colorful touch that complements the lemon flavor.
