Ricotta Cheesecake is a classic Italian dessert that offers a lighter alternative to traditional American cheesecakes. The use of ricotta cheese gives the cheesecake a slightly grainy texture and a rich, creamy flavor with a hint of sweetness. This dessert is often flavored with lemon zest and vanilla, making it a fresh and elegant end to a meal. Ricotta Cheesecake is particularly popular in Southern Italy, where ricotta is widely used in both savory and sweet dishes.

How to Make Ricotta Cheesecake

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Filling:

• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 2 cups cream cheese, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
• 1/4 cup heavy cream

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Crust:

   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined.
   • Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even crust.
   • Bake the crust for about 10 minutes, then remove it from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the filling.

2. Make the Filling:

   • In a large bowl, beat together the ricotta cheese, cream cheese, and sugar until smooth and creamy.
   • Add the flour, mixing until just combined.
   • Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
   • Stir in the vanilla extract, lemon zest (if using), and heavy cream until the mixture is smooth.

3. Bake the Cheesecake:

   • Pour the filling over the cooled crust in the springform pan.
   • Place the pan on a baking sheet and bake for about 60-70 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is lightly golden.
   • Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly open for about 1 hour to prevent cracking.
   • Once cool, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, or overnight, before serving.

4. Serve:

   • Carefully remove the cheesecake from the springform pan and transfer it to a serving plate.
   • Slice and serve as is, or top with fresh fruit, a berry compote, or a dusting of powdered sugar.

Nutritional Information (per slice, based on 12 slices)

• Calories: ~320-350 kcal
• Proteins: ~7-8 grams
• Carbohydrates: ~28-32 grams
• Fiber: ~1-2 grams

These values are approximate and can vary depending on the portion size and specific ingredients used. Ricotta Cheesecake is a delicious and indulgent dessert, offering a good balance of creaminess and sweetness, with a slightly lower calorie count than traditional cheesecakes.