Easter Sweet Ricotta Pie Lemon (Printable Version)

Creamy ricotta and zesty lemon in a tender crust, perfect for festive spring occasions.

# What You'll Need:

→ Pastry

01 - 2 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
03 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
04 - 1 large egg
05 - 1 large egg yolk
06 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
07 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
08 - 2 to 3 tablespoons cold water

→ Ricotta Filling

09 - 2 cups whole milk ricotta cheese, well drained
10 - 3/4 cup granulated sugar
11 - 3 large eggs
12 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
13 - Zest of 2 lemons
14 - 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
15 - 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
16 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
17 - 1/4 cup heavy cream

→ Finishing

18 - Powdered sugar for dusting

# How to Make It:

01 - In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add cold cubed butter and rub between fingertips until mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
02 - Mix in egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract. Add cold water one tablespoon at a time, stirring gently until dough just comes together without overworking.
03 - Shape dough into a disk, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
04 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9-inch pie or tart pan with butter or cooking spray.
05 - On a lightly floured surface, roll dough to 1/8-inch thickness. Transfer to prepared pan, gently press into bottom and sides, trim excess overhang, and prick base with fork. Chill for 10 minutes.
06 - In a large mixing bowl, whisk together well-drained ricotta, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, lemon zest, lemon juice, flour, salt, and heavy cream until smooth and combined.
07 - Pour ricotta filling into prepared pastry shell and smooth the surface with a spatula.
08 - Bake for 55 to 60 minutes until filling is set and surface is lightly golden. Center should have slight movement when gently shaken.
09 - Allow pie to cool completely on a wire rack, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing.
10 - Dust generously with powdered sugar just before serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Creamy ricotta filling enlivened by fresh lemon zest adds a bright, fresh flavor perfect for spring.
  • Tender and flaky pastry crust provides the perfect golden base for the rich filling.
  • A traditional Italian Easter dessert that brings festive elegance to your table.
  • Vegetarian-friendly and satisfying for a sweet finish to any meal.
02 -
  • Drain the ricotta overnight or use a fine sieve to remove excess moisture for a firmer filling.
  • Chilling the dough twice prevents shrinking and ensures a crisp crust.
  • If the crust browns too quickly, cover edges with foil halfway through baking.
  • Use a microplane to finely zest lemons—this releases the oils and intensifies flavor without bitterness.
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