If you are in search of a show-stopping dessert that combines rich flavors and comforting textures, look no further than Italian Love Cake. This delightful dessert features a luscious layer of chocolate cake topped with a creamy ricotta layer and finished off with a silky chocolate pudding and fluffy whipped topping. The sweet aroma wafts through the kitchen as the cake bakes, tantalizing everyone nearby. Ideal for special occasions or family gatherings, this cake is sure to win over hearts and taste buds alike. Whether it’s a celebration or a cozy dinner at home, serving this cake will undoubtedly make your guests feel adored.

Ingredients

• 2 (15-ounce) containers of ricotta cheese: Adds creaminess and a slightly sweet flavor.
• 1 cup of granulated sugar: Sweetens the ricotta mixture and cake.
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a hint of warmth.
• 4 large eggs (room temperature): Binds the ricotta mixture and adds richness.
• 1 (15.25-ounce) box of chocolate or devil’s food cake mix: Forms the base and provides chocolatey goodness.
• 1/2 cup canola or vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist.
• 1 cup of water: Needed to prepare the cake mix as per instructions.
• 3 large eggs: Required for the chocolate pudding layer, adding creaminess.
• 1 (5-ounce) box of instant chocolate pudding: Creates a rich chocolate layer atop the cake.
• 3 cups of milk (cold): Used to prepare the pudding for a creamy consistency.
• 1 (8-ounce) container of whipped topping, thawed: Finishes off the dessert with lightness and sweetness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray and set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and 4 large eggs. Beat until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
3. In another bowl, prepare the chocolate cake mix according to the package instructions, adding the oil and water. Once mixed, pour the batter into the greased baking dish.
4. Carefully spoon the ricotta mixture over the chocolate cake batter, ensuring not to mix them together, to create beautiful layers.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding and cold milk until well combined. Let this mixture thicken for about 5 minutes.
6. After the cake has baked, allow it to cool for 30-35 minutes. Then, spread the pudding mixture over the top of the cake.
7. Finally, spread the thawed whipped topping evenly over the pudding layer.
8. Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 55 minutes (includes chilling time)
• Servings: 12-15
• Calories: Approximately 350 per slice

Tips, Storage & Variations

• Tips: Ensure your eggs are at room temperature for better mixing. For a cleaner slice, use a hot, wet knife.
• Storage: Keep any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cake without the whipped topping for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• Flavor Variations: Consider adding a layer of fruit like strawberries or raspberries on top of the pudding for a fresh and fruity contrast.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use different types of cake mix?
   Yes, you can use yellow cake mix for a lighter variation or any other chocolate cake mix.

2. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
   Absolutely! It lasts well in the refrigerator and can be made a day in advance.

3. What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?
   A blend of cream cheese and sour cream can be a good substitute, though the flavor will differ slightly.

4. How do I store leftovers?
   Cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator.

5. Is this cake gluten-free?
   No, this recipe is not gluten-free due to the cake mix. However, you can use a gluten-free cake mix if needed.

6. Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?
   You can reduce the sugar slightly, but keep in mind that it may affect the overall sweetness and texture.

People Also Ask

1. What makes Italian Love Cake so special?
   The combination of rich chocolate cake and creamy ricotta layers creates a unique and delicious flavor profile.

2. How long should I chill the cake?
   Let it chill for at least 2 hours for the best texture and flavor.

3. Can I add coffee flavor to the cake?
   Yes, adding a tablespoon of instant coffee granules to the cake mix can enhance the chocolate flavor.

4. Is this cake suitable for kids?
   Absolutely! Kids will love the chocolate and creamy layers.

5. What type of chocolate pudding works best?
   Instant chocolate pudding works perfectly, as it sets quickly and retains a creamy texture.

6. How can I serve this cake?
   Serve it chilled, and consider adding a dusting of cocoa powder or fresh berries for garnish.

Conclusion

Italian Love Cake provides a beautiful and heartfelt finish to any meal. With its layers of chocolate cake, creamy ricotta, and fluffy topping, it promises to impress family and friends alike. Give this delightful recipe a try, and do not hesitate to share your experience. Enjoy creating this delicious treat in your kitchen, and let the love flow through every slice!

Italian Love Cake

A delightful dessert featuring rich chocolate cake layered with creamy ricotta and topped with chocolate pudding and whipped topping, perfect for special occasions.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 2 hours hrs 55 minutes mins

Servings: 15 servings

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 350

Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

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Ricotta Layer

• 2 15-ounce containers ricotta cheese Adds creaminess and a slightly sweet flavor.
• 1 cup granulated sugar Sweetens the ricotta mixture and cake.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Enhances the overall flavor with a hint of warmth.
• 4 large eggs room temperature eggs Binds the ricotta mixture and adds richness.

Chocolate Cake Base

• 1 15.25-ounce box chocolate or devil’s food cake mix Forms the base and provides chocolatey goodness.
• 1/2 cup canola or vegetable oil Keeps the cake moist.
• 1 cup water Needed to prepare the cake mix as per instructions.

Chocolate Pudding Layer

• 1 5-ounce box instant chocolate pudding Creates a rich chocolate layer atop the cake.
• 3 cups milk (cold) Used to prepare the pudding for a creamy consistency.

See also  Sweet and Spicy Cinnamon Sugar Blondies

Topping

• 1 8-ounce container whipped topping, thawed Finishes off the dessert with lightness and sweetness.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray and set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and 4 large eggs. Beat until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Making the Cake

1. In another bowl, prepare the chocolate cake mix according to the package instructions, adding the oil and water. Once mixed, pour the batter into the greased baking dish.
2. Carefully spoon the ricotta mixture over the chocolate cake batter, ensuring not to mix them together, to create beautiful layers.

Pudding Layer

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding and cold milk until well combined. Let this mixture thicken for about 5 minutes.

Finishing Touch

1. After the cake has baked, allow it to cool for 30-35 minutes. Then, spread the pudding mixture over the top of the cake.
2. Finally, spread the thawed whipped topping evenly over the pudding layer.

Chilling

1. Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 8gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 5gSodium: 250mgFiber: 2gSugar: 25g

Notes

Ensure your eggs are at room temperature for better mixing. For a cleaner slice, use a hot, wet knife. Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can freeze the cake without the whipped topping for up to 2 months. Consider adding a layer of fruit like strawberries or raspberries on top of the pudding for a fresh contrast.

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Let us know how it was!