Strawberry and ricotta cake
Strawberry and Cheese Cake – a delicious homemade recipe
Who can resist a fragrant cake with a fluffy texture and a fresh strawberry taste? This strawberry and ricotta cheese cake is the perfect choice for a sweet snack or a dessert that will delight any table. Once you try it, you will definitely want to make it again, as it is easy to prepare and full of flavor.
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 40-45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Servings: 8
Ingredients:
- 350g ricotta cheese
- 70g honey
- 50g flour
- 4 eggs
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 vanilla bean
- Fresh strawberries (about 300g)
- Butter and powdered sugar for greasing the pan
Step-by-step preparation:
1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. This step is essential to ensure even baking of the cake.
2. Prepare the pan: Take a 20 cm springform pan and grease it with butter. Then, instead of flour, line the bottom and sides with powdered sugar. This will not only prevent sticking but will also add a touch of sweetness to your cake.
3. Prepare the strawberries: Wash the strawberries under cold running water and remove the leaves. Cut each strawberry into 3 slices. These will not only add flavor but also a vibrant color to the cake.
4. Separate the eggs: Separate the egg whites from the yolks. It is important to pay attention to this step, as the egg whites will be beaten to add air to the cake.
5. Beat the egg whites: Use a mixer to beat the egg whites until they become firm and fluffy. This step is crucial to achieve a light and airy cake. Set them aside.
6. Prepare the ricotta mixture: In another bowl, mix the ricotta cheese with honey until smooth. Add each yolk one at a time, mixing well after each addition. The lemon zest and seeds from the vanilla bean will add delicious flavors, so don’t skip them!
7. Incorporate the flour: Add the flour and mix well until you obtain a homogeneous mixture. It’s important not to overmix to keep the airy texture.
8. Incorporate the egg whites: Now comes the essential moment: add 1/3 of the beaten egg whites to the ricotta mixture. Gently fold with a spatula to avoid losing the air from the egg whites. Repeat with another third, then with the last part of the egg whites. This gentle folding technique is key to a fluffy cake that rises beautifully.
9. Bake: Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and place the strawberry slices on top. Put the pan in the oven for 40-45 minutes. The cake is ready when it turns golden and passes the toothpick test: insert a toothpick in the center, and if it comes out clean, the cake is baked.
10. Cooling: Once the cake is baked, let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, gently release the sides of the pan and let it cool completely on a wire rack.
Serving and combinations:
The strawberry and ricotta cheese cake can be served plain or dusted with powdered sugar. For an extra flavor boost, you can accompany it with creamy yogurt or whipped cream. It pairs perfectly with a cup of green tea or a fragrant espresso, bringing a pleasant contrast between sweet and bitter.
Nutritional benefits:
Ricotta cheese is an excellent source of protein and calcium, making this cake a healthier choice compared to other desserts. Strawberries, on the other hand, are rich in antioxidants and vitamins while being low in calories. A serving of this cake contains about 180 calories, making it a lavish yet moderate option.
Variations and tips:
To give your cake a twist, you can experiment with other berries, such as blueberries or raspberries. Also, add some chopped nuts to the mixture for a crunchy texture. If you prefer a chocolate cake, you can replace some of the flour with cocoa and add some chocolate chips.
Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use another type of cheese instead of ricotta?
Yes, you can try cottage cheese, but the texture will be different.
- How do I keep the cake fresh?
Keep the cake in an airtight container in the fridge, where it will last for a few days.
- Can I freeze the cake?
Yes, you can freeze the cake. Make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn.
This strawberry and ricotta cheese cake quickly becomes a family favorite. Whether you serve it for a special occasion or simply as a weekend dessert, it is a recipe that will surely bring joy and smiles to the faces of your loved ones. So, don’t wait any longer! Put on your apron, prepare the ingredients, and enjoy this delicacy!
Ingredients: 350g ricotta cheese, 70g honey, 50g flour, 4 eggs, zest of 1 lemon, 1 vanilla pod, fresh strawberries, butter and powdered sugar for greasing the pan.
