Italian Lemon Ricotta Cake: A Moist & Fluffy Classic
Hey there, fellow foodies! 👋 Are you tired of the same old boring desserts? Well, buckle up, because today we’re talking about a game-changer: the Italian Lemon Ricotta Cake. This lemon cake is a masterclass in moistness, fluffiness, and straight-up deliciousness. So, what makes it so special? For starters, the combination of ricotta cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice creates a flavor profile that’s both tangy and sweet. And let’s not forget the Italian sponge cake element, which adds a lovely lightness to the whole affair.
Lemon Ricotta Cake Recipe
This recipe rocks because it’s incredibly versatile – you can have it for breakfast, as a breakfast cake, or serve it as a dessert. The lemon olive oil cake variation is also a great option for those looking for a slightly different twist.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
- 1/4 cup olive oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 8-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the ricotta cheese, milk, eggs, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and whisk until just combined.
5. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Why You’ll Love It
You’ll love this lemon cake because it’s moist, fluffy, and packed with lemon flavor. The ricotta cheese adds a richness and tenderness that’s hard to resist. Plus, it’s perfect for any time of day – whether you’re serving it as a breakfast cake or a dessert.
Variations on the Theme
So, what if you want to mix things up a bit? One great option is to try a lemon olive oil cake variation, which substitutes some of the butter or oil with olive oil for added depth of flavor. Or, if you’re feeling fancy, you could add some lemon-infused simple syrup to the batter for an extra boost of citrus flavor.
Tips and Tricks
Use high-quality ingredients, like fresh lemon zest and real ricotta cheese, to get the best flavor out of your lemon cake. And don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations – like adding some chopped nuts or dried fruit to the batter for added texture and flavor.
The Verdict
So, which lemon cake recipe will you try first? Whether you’re a fan of Italian sponge cake, breakfast cake, or just a good old-fashioned lemon olive oil cake, there’s something on this list for everyone. And with these simple tips and tricks, you’ll be well on your way to lemon cake mastery in no time.

In conclusion, these lemon cake recipes are all about speed, flavor, and convenience. With their moist and fluffy texture, ricotta cheese richness, and lemon flavor, they’re perfect for any occasion – whether you’re serving them as a breakfast cake or a dessert. So go ahead, give them a try, and experience the delight of a classic Italian Lemon Ricotta Cake!
