There’s something magical about the combination of lemon and ricotta in a pound cake. This Lemon Ricotta Pound Cake is a delightful twist on the classic, offering an incredibly moist texture, a rich buttery flavor, and a bright citrusy kick that keeps you coming back for more. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering, enjoying it as an afternoon treat with a cup of tea, or looking for a special homemade dessert, this pound cake is guaranteed to impress.
The ricotta cheese not only adds creaminess but also enhances the cake’s structure, making it incredibly soft and tender. If you’re a fan of lemon desserts, this recipe is a must-try!
Servings and Preparation Details
- Servings: 10 people
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Ingredients :
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups cake flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients:
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter (1 1/2 sticks), softened
- 1 1/2 cups whole-milk ricotta cheese
- 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon
For Garnish (Optional):
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
- Lemon slices or zest, for decoration
Instructions :
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Equipment
Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan generously with butter or line it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal after baking.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the cake flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this mixture aside; it will be added gradually to the wet ingredients later.
Step 3: Cream the Butter, Ricotta, and Sugar
Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, beat the butter, ricotta cheese, and sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy. This process should take 2 to 3 minutes. The ricotta will create a soft, creamy consistency that contributes to the moist texture of the cake.
Step 4: Incorporate the Eggs and Flavoring
Add the eggs one at a time, making sure each one is fully incorporated before adding the next. Mix in the vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice, ensuring the batter is well combined. The lemon zest adds an intense citrus aroma, while the juice enhances the tangy flavor of the cake.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing at a low speed. Do not overmix; stir just until the flour disappears into the batter. Overmixing can result in a dense cake instead of a light, tender crumb.
Step 6: Transfer and Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 55 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. If the top starts browning too quickly, loosely cover it with aluminum foil halfway through baking.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then run a knife around the edges to loosen it before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once fully cooled, dust with powdered sugar for an elegant touch. Garnish with lemon slices or extra zest if desired.
Serving Suggestions
This Lemon Ricotta Pound Cake pairs beautifully with:
- A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream
- Fresh berries (such as raspberries, blueberries, or strawberries)
- A drizzle of honey or a light lemon glaze
- A warm cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat
Storage Tips
- Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigeration: If you prefer a chilled texture, keep it in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Why This Cake Stands Out
Unlike traditional pound cakes, this Lemon Ricotta Pound Cake has a velvety texture with a delicate crumb, thanks to the whole-milk ricotta. The ricotta not only adds moisture but also gives the cake a subtle richness that pairs wonderfully with the citrusy brightness of fresh lemon. It’s not just a cake—it’s an experience of flavors and textures that will make it a household favorite.
Conclusion:
A Recipe Worth Keeping
If you’re looking for a dessert that’s elegant yet simple, rich yet refreshing, and decadent yet light, then this Lemon Ricotta Pound Cake is the perfect choice. Whether served as a sweet ending to a meal or enjoyed with your morning coffee, this cake is bound to be a crowd-pleaser. Try it once, and it will become a staple in your baking repertoire. Enjoy every moist and citrusy bite!
