This Italian Ricotta Pie with a Sweet Twist is a rich and creamy dessert that blends classic Italian flavors with a hint of sweetness. The smooth ricotta filling, complemented by lemon zest, vanilla, and optional add-ins like chocolate chips, candied fruit, or nuts, creates a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. With its buttery crust and versatile nature, this pie will impress your guests and leave everyone craving more.
For the Crust:
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
Pinch of salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
1 large egg yolk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Filling:
2 cups whole milk ricotta cheese, drained
3/4 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Zest of 1 lemon (optional)
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
Optional Add-ins:
1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
1/4 cup candied fruit
1/4 cup chopped nuts (pistachios, almonds, etc.)
Prepare the crust: In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add egg yolk and vanilla extract, forming a dough. Chill for 30 minutes.
Preheat the oven: Set the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch pie dish.
Roll the dough: Roll out the dough into a circle and place it into the pie dish, trimming excess dough.
Blind bake the crust: Line the dough with parchment paper and fill with pie weights. Bake for 10-12 minutes, then remove the weights and bake for another 5 minutes.
Make the filling: In a bowl, combine ricotta, sugar, eggs, vanilla, and optional lemon zest and cinnamon. Fold in any add-ins like chocolate chips or fruit.
Assemble and bake: Pour the filling into the crust and smooth the top. Bake for 35-40 minutes until the filling is set.
Cool and serve: Let the pie cool completely, then chill for at least 2 hours. Dust with powdered sugar or garnish with berries before serving.
For a lighter version, try using part-skim ricotta.
You can switch up the add-ins with white chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or chopped dark chocolate for a fun twist.
Ensure the crust is blind-baked to prevent it from becoming soggy.