Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The ricotta cheese adds a creamy texture and keeps the cake moist.
- A perfect balance of chocolatey goodness and subtle sweetness.
- Eye-catching marbled design that looks as good as it tastes.
- Versatile recipe with optional add-ins and toppings.
- Simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking powder
- Pinch of salt
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional)
- 1/4 cup milk (optional, for a moister cake)
Directions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Ricotta and Eggs: Beat in the ricotta cheese and eggs until well combined and smooth.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cocoa powder, and a pinch of salt.
- Mix Dry Ingredients into Wet: Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Add optional milk if the batter is too thick.
- Separate the Batter: Divide the batter into two portions. Fold chocolate chips (if using) and the remaining cocoa powder into one portion.
- Layer the Batter: Spoon alternating layers of the plain and chocolate batter into the prepared pan. Swirl with a knife or skewer for a marbled effect.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Optional Toppings: Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate for extra decadence.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 8-10 slices
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Variations
- Add Zest: Incorporate orange or lemon zest into the batter for a citrus twist.
- Nutty Flavor: Add chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts for extra crunch.
- Darker Chocolate: Use dark chocolate chips or chunks for a richer chocolate experience.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Reheating: Warm slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to refresh the texture.
FAQs
1. Can I use low-fat ricotta cheese?
Yes, but full-fat ricotta yields a richer and creamier texture.
2. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! It stays moist for days, making it great for prepping in advance.
3. What can I use instead of semi-sweet chocolate chips?
Dark chocolate chunks or milk chocolate chips work well as substitutes.
4. How do I know when the cake is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the cake is done.
5. Can I omit the chocolate chips?
Yes, the cake will still be delicious without them.
6. What type of cocoa powder should I use?
Use unsweetened cocoa powder for the best flavor.
7. Can I use a different pan size?
Yes, but adjust the baking time accordingly. For example, a loaf pan may require a slightly longer bake.
8. What can I use as a topping besides powdered sugar or chocolate drizzle?
Try whipped cream, fresh berries, or a dollop of mascarpone.
9. Is this cake suitable for layering?
It’s best as a single-layer cake, but you can try stacking if the layers are baked separately.
10. Can I make this cake dairy-free?
Use a dairy-free butter substitute and coconut cream instead of ricotta.
Conclusion
This Double Chocolate Ricotta Marble Cake is a must-try for chocolate lovers and baking enthusiasts alike. Its unique combination of flavors and textures, coupled with the stunning marbled design, makes it a standout dessert for any occasion. Serve it as-is, or dress it up with your favorite toppings for an unforgettable treat!
Double Chocolate Ricotta Marble Cake
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8-10 slices
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Double Chocolate Ricotta Marble Cake is a moist, flavorful dessert featuring rich chocolate and creamy ricotta. Its eye-catching marbled design makes it perfect for gatherings or as a special treat.
Ingredients
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking powder
- Pinch of salt
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional)
- 1/4 cup milk (optional, for a moister cake)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line with parchment paper.
- Cream softened butter and sugar in a bowl until light and fluffy.
- Beat in ricotta cheese and eggs until smooth.
- In another bowl, whisk flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually mix dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Add milk if needed for consistency.
- Divide batter into two portions. Add cocoa powder and chocolate chips to one portion.
- Spoon alternating layers of plain and chocolate batter into the pan. Swirl for a marbled effect.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool for 10 minutes in the pan before transferring to a wire rack.
- Optionally, top with powdered sugar or melted chocolate before serving.
Notes
- Full-fat ricotta ensures a creamy texture.
- Store at room temperature for 3 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- Freeze individual slices for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
