Ricotta Pie

There’s something undeniably comforting about a rich, velvety pie made with creamy ricotta cheese. If you’re craving a dessert that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Ricotta Pie is it. It’s simple to make, with a buttery crust that cradles a smooth, slightly sweet ricotta filling. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll be hooked! Whether you’re whipping it up for a family dinner, a special occasion, or just because, this pie will quickly become a favorite. Ready to dive in? Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love Ricotta Pie

This Ricotta Pie is more than just a dessert—it’s an experience. Here’s why it’ll have you coming back for more:

• Versatile: From casual dinners to elegant gatherings, this pie works in every scenario. It’s the dessert everyone will be talking about, and you’ll be happy to share the recipe!
• Budget-Friendly: Using everyday ingredients, this pie proves that you don’t have to break the bank for an indulgent treat. Simple pantry staples work wonders here!
• Quick and Easy: No complicated steps or fancy techniques—this pie comes together effortlessly, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Customizable: Add-ins like mini chocolate chips or candied fruit bring a new twist to the classic flavor. Whether you prefer a traditional taste or something a little more adventurous, this pie is totally adaptable.
• Crowd-Pleasing: Whether it’s for kids or adults, everyone loves this pie. It’s light, creamy, and satisfying—just the right balance of flavors and textures to satisfy every palate.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for this Ricotta Pie—each ingredient is a key player in making this pie magical:

For the Crust:

• All-purpose flour: This forms the base of your crust, giving it that perfect, flaky texture.
• Unsalted butter: Cold, cubed butter creates a rich, tender crust that will melt in your mouth.
• Granulated sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness to balance the buttery crust.
• Egg yolk: It helps bind the dough and gives the crust its richness.
• Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla enhances the overall flavor, adding warmth.
• Pinch of salt: A little salt goes a long way in balancing sweetness and flavor.

For the Filling:

• Whole milk ricotta cheese: This is the heart of the filling—creamy, rich, and just the right texture for a pie.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the filling and adds a bit of contrast to the savory crust.
• Eggs: These help set the filling and give it a smooth, velvety texture.
• Vanilla extract: A must for flavor—it complements the ricotta beautifully.
• Lemon zest (optional): Adds a pop of brightness and freshness to the filling.
• Ground cinnamon (optional): Brings a warm, comforting depth of flavor that pairs so well with ricotta.

Optional Add-Ins:

• Mini chocolate chips: For a sweet, melty surprise in each bite.
• Candied fruit (like orange peel or cherries): For a burst of color and flavor, adding a touch of sweetness.
• Chopped pistachios or almonds: If you love crunch, this is the perfect addition to elevate the texture and flavor.

(Note: Full ingredient measurements are listed in the recipe card above.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Prepare the Crust:

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, cold butter, sugar, and salt. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract, then mix until the dough comes together. Shape the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

Preheat Your Oven:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch pie dish or tart pan to prevent sticking.

Roll Out the Dough:

On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a circle that’s just a bit larger than your pie dish. Carefully transfer the dough to the dish, pressing it gently into the bottom and sides. Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges. Prick the bottom of the crust with a fork to prevent puffing during baking.

Blind Bake the Crust:

Line the crust with parchment paper or aluminum foil and fill it with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 10–12 minutes, then remove the weights and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the crust is golden. Let it cool slightly.

Make the Filling:

In a large bowl, whisk together the ricotta cheese, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and cinnamon (if using). Mix until smooth and creamy. If you’re adding chocolate chips, candied fruit, or nuts, gently fold them into the mixture.

Assemble and Bake:

Pour the ricotta filling into the pre-baked crust and spread it evenly. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is lightly golden. To check for doneness, insert a knife into the center—it should come out clean.

Cool and Serve:

Let the pie cool completely on a wire rack before slicing. Dust with powdered sugar or garnish with fresh berries for an elegant touch. Serve at room temperature or chilled—either way, it’s delicious!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 8
Calories per serving: 350–400
(Note: These values are approximate and based on typical ingredient brands.)

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

How to Serve Ricotta Pie

This Ricotta Pie is delicious on its own, but here are a few ways to enhance your meal:

• Fresh Salads: Pair with a crisp green salad to balance the richness of the pie.
• Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up any leftover pie filling or sauces.
• Creamy Accompaniments: Top with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for added creaminess.
• Vegetable Sides: Roasted vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or asparagus make great pairings.
• As a Standalone: Sometimes, it’s just perfect on its own. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil to add a pop of color.

Presentation also matters! Serve the pie in a beautiful dish, sprinkle with powdered sugar or fresh berries, and watch it wow your guests.

Additional Tips

• Prep Ahead: Make the dough ahead of time and store it in the fridge to save time.
• Spice It Up: For a fun twist, experiment with adding spices like nutmeg or ginger.
• Dietary Adjustments: You can swap the crust for a gluten-free option, or use dairy-free ricotta for a vegan version.
• Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently or serve cold.
• Double the Batch: If you’re feeding a crowd, double the recipe. The pie freezes beautifully, so you’ll always have a sweet treat on hand.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I substitute ricotta cheese with another type of cheese?
A1: Ricotta is a key flavor in this pie, but you can try substituting with mascarpone or cottage cheese for a slightly different texture and taste.

Q2: Can I make this pie ahead of time?
A2: Absolutely! You can prepare the pie a day or two ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just let it come to room temperature before serving.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or serve chilled, depending on your preference.

Q4: Can I freeze this pie?
A4: Yes, this pie freezes wonderfully! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Q5: What’s the best way to reheat this pie?
A5: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes to warm through, or microwave individual slices for 30 seconds to 1 minute.

Q6: Can I double the recipe?
A6: Yes, doubling the recipe is a great idea, especially if you’re feeding a larger crowd. You can bake it in a larger dish, just keep an eye on the baking time.

Q7: Can I make the crust gluten-free?
A7: Yes! You can easily make the crust gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend. It might alter the texture slightly, but it will still be delicious.

Q8: How can I add a bit of crunch to the filling?
A8: Try adding chopped nuts like pistachios, almonds, or even a handful of granola for an extra crunch!

Q9: Can I make a smaller version of this pie?
A9: Yes, you can make a smaller version by halving the ingredients and using a smaller pie dish.

Q10: Can I serve this pie warm?
A10: While it’s typically served chilled or at room temperature, you can enjoy it warm if that’s how you prefer it!

Conclusion

This Ricotta Pie is the perfect combination of rich, creamy, and comforting flavors wrapped in a delicate crust. Whether you’re baking it for a special occasion or just craving something sweet, it’s sure to satisfy your taste buds. Easy to make, customizable, and sure to impress—what more could you ask for? Go ahead, grab the ingredients, and treat yourself to this delightful Italian dessert. You won’t regret it!

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