We’ve always loved how coffee cake brings a cozy vibe to any morning, and our version with ricotta cheese takes it up a notch. This Italian-inspired twist adds a creamy, tender crumb that pairs perfectly with your favorite brew, making it an irresistible treat for brunch or dessert.
What sets this recipe apart is the way ricotta infuses moisture and a subtle tang, elevating the classic flavors we all crave. We’re confident you’ll enjoy baking and sharing this easy delight that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients
To craft our irresistible Coffee Cake with Ricotta Cheese, we start by gathering high-quality ingredients that blend seamlessly for a moist, tangy crumb. We’ve organized them in the order they’re typically used, with prep notes for clarity.
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – Sifted to ensure a light texture.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder – Fresh for optimal rise.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda – Helps balance the acidity from the ricotta cheese.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – Fine sea salt for enhanced flavor.
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup ricotta cheese – Full-fat and at room temperature for creamy incorporation.
- 1 cup granulated sugar – Used to sweeten the batter.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter – Softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
- 2 large eggs – At room temperature to promote even blending.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Pure variety for authentic taste.
Topping Ingredients
- 1/2 cup brown sugar – Packed, for a streusel topping.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Freshly ground if possible, to sprinkle over the batter before baking.
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts – Optional, toasted for added crunch.
This selection ensures our Coffee Cake with Ricotta Cheese turns out perfectly every time, highlighting the creamy tang of ricotta cheese as the star.
Required Tools and Equipment
Now that we’ve gathered our high-quality ingredients for the Coffee Cake with Ricotta Cheese, we need the right tools to ensure a seamless baking process. Using the proper equipment helps us achieve a perfectly textured cake with that creamy, moist crumb.
To prepare and bake this recipe efficiently, here’s a detailed list of the essential tools and equipment. We’ve organized them by category for clarity:
- Mixing and Measuring Tools:
- Large mixing bowls (at least two: one for dry ingredients and one for wet) – These allow us to combine ingredients without cross-contamination, ensuring even blending.
- Measuring cups and spoons (set for dry and liquid measurements) – Accurate measurements are crucial for baking success, as they prevent imbalances in flour or sugar that could affect the cake’s texture.
- Preparation Tools:
- Electric mixer or stand mixer – We recommend this for creaming the butter, sugar, and ricotta cheese to achieve a light, airy batter; a hand whisk works if you prefer a manual approach, but it requires more effort.
- Rubber spatula – Ideal for folding in ingredients gently, preserving the ricotta’s moisture without overmixing.
- Sifter or fine mesh strainer – This tool helps us aerate the dry ingredients like flour and baking powder, resulting in a tender crumb.
- Baking and Cooling Tools:
- 9×13 inch baking pan (preferably non-stick or greased) – The standard size for this coffee cake, ensuring even baking and a golden crust; line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Oven thermometer – To verify our oven reaches the precise temperature (around 350°F), which is key for consistent results in this ricotta-enhanced recipe.
- Wire cooling rack – Essential for allowing the cake to cool evenly after baking, preventing sogginess and maintaining that subtle tang from the ricotta.
By having these tools on hand, we can execute the recipe with confidence and precision, leading to a delightful Coffee Cake with Ricotta Cheese that’s sure to impress.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our high-quality ingredients and essential tools, we can proceed with the step-by-step process to bake our flavorful Coffee Cake with Ricotta Cheese. Let’s ensure each step is executed precisely for a moist, tangy crumb that pairs perfectly with coffee.
Prepare the Ingredients
Before mixing, it’s crucial to prepare our ingredients in the order they will be used to streamline the process and achieve the best texture in our Coffee Cake with Ricotta Cheese. Start by measuring and prepping as follows:
- Dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, sift 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, and ¼ teaspoon of fine sea salt. Sifting ensures a light, airy base that prevents clumping.
- Wet ingredients: In another bowl, measure 1 cup of full-fat ricotta cheese at room temperature for easy blending, 1 cup of granulated sugar, ½ cup of softened unsalted butter, 2 large eggs, and 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract. The ricotta’s creamy texture will add a subtle tang and moisture to our cake.
- Topping mixture: In a small bowl, combine ½ cup of packed brown sugar, 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon, and ½ cup of optional toasted walnuts, roughly chopped. This topping will create a crunchy, aromatic layer that enhances the cake’s flavor profile.
Mix the Batter
With our ingredients prepped, we’ll mix the batter using active, efficient techniques to develop a smooth, velvety consistency that highlights the richness of the ricotta cheese in our Coffee Cake with Ricotta Cheese.
- In the bowl with the dry ingredients, use an electric mixer on medium speed to gently incorporate them, ensuring even distribution for a tender crumb.
- In a separate large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes; this step builds a airy base that traps moisture from the ricotta.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then mix in the ricotta cheese and vanilla extract until fully combined; the batter will turn creamy and slightly tangy, promising a moist interior.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a rubber spatula, stirring just until no streaks remain; overmixing can toughen the cake, so stop once blended for optimal results.
Bake the Cake
Baking is where the magic happens, transforming our batter into a golden, aromatic Coffee Cake with Ricotta Cheese—we’ll use precise temperatures and times for even cooking and a perfect rise.
| Step | Oven Temperature | Baking Time | Doneness Check |
|---|---|---|---|
| Preheat and bake | 350°F (175°C) | 35-40 minutes | Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs |
Follow these steps: Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan, then spread the batter evenly and sprinkle the topping mixture on top. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake as indicated in the table above, rotating the pan halfway through for uniform browning. The cake will emit a warm, cinnamon-scented aroma as it bakes to a golden finish.
Cool and Serve
After baking, proper cooling preserves the cake’s structure and enhances its flavors, allowing the ricotta’s creaminess to shine in our Coffee Cake with Ricotta Cheese.
- Remove the pan from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for 10-15 minutes; this prevents the cake from breaking when sliced.
- Once slightly cooled, invert the cake onto the rack to cool completely, about 1 hour, for the flavors to settle and the texture to firm up.
- Slice into squares and serve warm or at room temperature, optionally dusting with powdered sugar for added sweetness; the result is a tender, tangy bite that pairs ideally with a fresh cup of coffee.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
To ensure our Coffee Cake with Ricotta Cheese retains its moist, tangy crumb and rich, creamy texture, we recommend these practical strategies for making ahead and storing. These tips help preserve the cake’s irresistible flavor that pairs perfectly with coffee, making it easy to prepare in advance for brunches or desserts.
Make-Ahead Options
We love preparing this cake ahead to save time without sacrificing quality. Follow these steps for seamless planning:
- Prepare the Batter in Advance: Mix the batter up to 24 hours before baking. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate it. This allows the ricotta cheese to infuse even more tangy moisture into the cake, enhancing its tender crumb. When ready, let the batter sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking to ensure even rising.
- Bake and Cool Completely: For longer make-ahead, bake the full cake as directed in the previous steps. Once cooled on the wire rack, wrap it securely in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can store it like this for up to 2 days at room temperature before serving, keeping the cinnamon-spiced topping crisp and the interior fluffy.
Storage Guidelines
Proper storage is key to maintaining the cake’s fresh-baked aroma and preventing it from drying out. We suggest using airtight containers to lock in the ricotta’s subtle creaminess.
| Storage Method | Duration | Tips for Best Results |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 1-2 days | Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap to preserve its moist texture and prevent staleness. |
| Refrigerator | 3-5 days | Place the cake in an airtight container to avoid absorbing odors. This method keeps the ricotta-enhanced crumb tender, but we advise bringing it to room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving to restore its soft, flavorful bite. |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Wrap individual slices or the whole cake in a double layer of plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freezing locks in the cake’s rich, tangy essence, and for reheating, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes to refresh the cinnamon topping’s crunch. |
By following these tips, we guarantee your Coffee Cake with Ricotta Cheese stays as delightful as the day you baked it. Always check for freshness before enjoying.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing this ricotta-infused coffee cake recipe with you. It’s a simple twist that brings creamy texture and flavor to your table. You’ll find it’s perfect for everyday treats or special gatherings. Let’s make it a staple in our kitchens and enjoy every bite with our favorite brew.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Coffee Cake with Ricotta Cheese?
Coffee Cake with Ricotta Cheese is an Italian-inspired twist on a classic recipe, featuring creamy ricotta for a moist, tender crumb and subtle tang. It’s perfect for pairing with coffee, ideal for brunch or dessert, and sets itself apart from traditional versions with added moisture and flavor.
What ingredients are needed for this recipe?
You’ll need dry ingredients like all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt; wet ingredients such as full-fat ricotta, sugar, butter, eggs, and vanilla; plus a topping of brown sugar, cinnamon, and optional walnuts. This selection ensures a tangy, moist cake with ricotta as the star.
What tools are essential for making this cake?
Key tools include mixing bowls and measuring cups for prep, an electric mixer and spatula for batter, and a 9×13 inch baking pan with a wire rack for baking and cooling. These help achieve precise texture and flavor, making the process smooth and efficient.
How do I bake Coffee Cake with Ricotta Cheese?
Start by sifting dry ingredients and mixing wet ones for a smooth batter. Bake in a preheated oven at the specified temperature for the given time, checking doneness with a toothpick. Cool on a rack, then dust with powdered sugar. The result is a tender, tangy cake ready in under an hour of baking.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it to enhance flavors. Bake fresh when needed, or store the fully baked cake at room temperature for up to 2 days. This makes it convenient for planning brunches or events without sacrificing taste.
How should I store Coffee Cake with Ricotta Cheese?
Store at room temperature, wrapped, for up to 2 days; refrigerate for up to a week to maintain moisture; or freeze for up to 3 months and thaw before serving. Proper storage keeps the cake’s creamy texture and tang intact, ensuring it stays fresh and delicious.