Italian Love Cake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Decadent Layers: Experience the harmonious blend of moist chocolate cake, velvety ricotta, and smooth chocolate pudding in every bite.
  • Simple Preparation: Utilizing a boxed cake mix streamlines the process, making this impressive dessert achievable even for novice bakers.
  • Versatile Appeal: Ideal for holidays, birthdays, or any gathering where you want to impress guests with a unique and delicious cake.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • Ricotta Cheese
  • Granulated Sugar
  • Vanilla Extract
  • Eggs
  • Devil’s Food Cake Mix
  • Canola or Vegetable Oil
  • Instant Chocolate Pudding Mix
  • Whole Milk
  • Whipped Topping (such as Cool Whip)

Directions

  1. Prepare the Cake Layer: Mix the Devil’s Food cake batter according to the package instructions, incorporating eggs, oil, and water. Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Prepare the Ricotta Layer: In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and eggs until smooth. Gently spoon this mixture over the unbaked chocolate cake batter.
  3. Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the layered cake for approximately 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely on a wire rack.
  4. Prepare the Chocolate Pudding Frosting: Whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix and cold whole milk until it thickens. Fold in the whipped topping until well combined.
  5. Assemble the Cake: Once the cake has cooled, spread the chocolate pudding frosting evenly over the top. Cover the cake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
  6. Serve: Slice and enjoy this decadent Italian Love Cake chilled.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: This recipe yields approximately 12 to 15 servings, depending on portion size.
  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Chilling Time: At least 6 hours (or overnight)
  • Total Time: Approximately 7 hours and 15 minutes, including chilling time.

Variations

  • Flavor Twists: Substitute the chocolate cake mix with a white or lemon cake mix for a different flavor profile. Pair with complementary pudding flavors like vanilla or lemon.
  • Add Citrus Zest: Incorporate lemon or orange zest into the ricotta layer to introduce a refreshing citrus note.
  • Nutella Frosting: Replace the chocolate pudding frosting with a Nutella-based frosting for a hazelnut-chocolate combination.

Storage/Reheating

  • Refrigeration: Store the Italian Love Cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
  • Freezing: For extended storage, freeze the cake (preferably without the pudding frosting) for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before adding the frosting and serving.
  • Serving: This cake is best enjoyed chilled; reheating is not recommended as it may affect the texture of the ricotta and pudding layers.

FAQs

What is Italian Love Cake?

Italian Love Cake is a layered dessert featuring a chocolate cake base, a sweet ricotta cheese layer, and a topping of chocolate pudding mixed with whipped cream. It’s known for its unique texture and flavor combination.

Can I use homemade cake batter instead of a boxed mix?

Yes, you can substitute a homemade chocolate cake batter if you prefer. Ensure it’s of a similar consistency to a boxed mix for best results.

Is it necessary to refrigerate the cake overnight?

Refrigerating the cake for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight, allows the flavors to meld and the textures to set properly, enhancing the overall taste.

Can I substitute the ricotta cheese with another type of cheese?

Mascarpone can be used as a substitute for ricotta, offering a creamier texture, though it may alter the traditional flavor slightly.

How do the layers switch during baking?

During baking, the ricotta layer sinks to the bottom, and the cake layer rises to the top due to differences in density, creating the distinct layers.

Can I add liqueur to the recipe for extra flavor?

Adding a tablespoon of coffee liqueur or amaretto to the ricotta mixture can introduce an additional depth of flavor.

What toppings can I add for garnish?

Consider garnishing with chocolate shavings, cocoa powder, or fresh berries to enhance presentation and taste.

Is it possible to make a gluten-free version of this cake?

Yes, by using a gluten-free chocolate cake mix and ensuring all other ingredients are gluten-free, you can adapt this recipe for gluten sensitivities.

Can I prepare this cake in advance for an event?

Absolutely, Italian Love Cake can be prepared a day or two in advance, making it a convenient option for gatherings.

What should I do if the pudding frosting is too runny?

Ensure that the pudding mix is instant and that the milk is cold. Allow the mixture


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Italian Love Cake


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  • Author: Isabella
  • Total Time: 7 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 12–15 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Indulge in the decadent layers of Italian Love Cake! This easy-to-make dessert combines moist chocolate cake, creamy ricotta, and luscious chocolate pudding frosting for a treat perfect for any special occasion.

 


Ingredients

  • Ricotta Layer:
    • 2 lbs ricotta cheese
    • 1 cup granulated sugar
    • 1 tsp vanilla extract
    • 4 large eggs
  • Cake Layer:
    • 1 box Devil’s Food cake mix
    • 3 large eggs
    • 1/2 cup canola or vegetable oil
    • 1 1/4 cups water
  • Pudding Frosting:
    • 2 (3.9 oz) boxes instant chocolate pudding mix
    • 3 cups cold whole milk
    • 1 (8 oz) tub whipped topping (e.g., Cool Whip)

Instructions

  • Prepare the Cake Batter:
    • Mix Devil’s Food cake mix with eggs, oil, and water as per package instructions. Pour batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
  • Make the Ricotta Layer:
    • Combine ricotta cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, and eggs in a bowl. Mix until smooth. Spoon the mixture gently over the cake batter.
  • Bake:
    • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 1 hour or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool completely.
  • Prepare the Frosting:
    • Whisk chocolate pudding mix and cold milk until thickened. Fold in whipped topping until smooth.
  • Assemble the Cake:
    • Spread pudding frosting evenly over the cooled cake. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight.
  • Serve:
    • Slice and serve chilled for best results.

Notes

  • Substitute Devil’s Food cake mix with white or lemon cake mix for a twist.
  • Add citrus zest to the ricotta layer for a fresh flavor.
  • Store in the fridge for up to 5 days; freeze (without frosting) for up to 2 months.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Chilling Time: 6 hours (or overnight)
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

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