Description
Italian Love Cake is a stunning layered dessert featuring a creamy ricotta layer, a moist chocolate cake, and a fluffy whipped pudding topping. As it bakes, the ricotta naturally sinks to the bottom, creating distinct layers with no extra effort. Perfect for holidays, gatherings, or anytime you want to impress with minimal work!
Ingredients
Scale
- Ricotta Layer:
- 2 (15 oz) containers ricotta cheese
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs (room temperature)
- Chocolate Cake:
- 1 (15.25 oz) box chocolate cake mix
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup water
- 3 large eggs
- Pudding Frosting:
- 1 (5 oz) box instant chocolate pudding mix
- 3 cups cold milk
- 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping, thawed
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13 baking dish.
- Prepare the ricotta layer by mixing ricotta, sugar, and vanilla. Add eggs one at a time, mixing until smooth.
- Prepare the chocolate cake batter as directed on the box.
- Pour the cake batter into the pan, then carefully pour the ricotta mixture on top.
- Bake for 1 hour to 1 hour and 10 minutes, until the center is set. Cool completely.
- For the frosting, whisk pudding mix with milk until thickened, then fold in the whipped topping. Spread over the cooled cake.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours before serving.
Notes
- Use full-fat ricotta for the creamiest texture.
- Let the cake chill thoroughly for the best flavor and texture.
- Experiment with different cake and pudding flavors for variations.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired