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Italian Ricotta Pie with a Sweet Twist

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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.

Ingredients

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.)

Instructions

  1. 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.

  2. Preheat the oven: Set the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch pie dish.

  3. Roll the dough: Roll out the dough into a circle and place it into the pie dish, trimming excess dough.

  4. 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.

  5. 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.

  6. Assemble and bake: Pour the filling into the crust and smooth the top. Bake for 35-40 minutes until the filling is set.

  7. 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.

Notes

  • 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.