We’ve always loved how a simple dessert can steal the show, and our easy chocolate ricotta brick cake is no exception. This Italian-inspired treat blends rich cocoa with creamy ricotta for a moist, dense delight that’s perfect for beginners or busy days.
It’s quick to whip up with everyday ingredients, yet delivers that wow factor everyone craves. Join us as we share the secrets to baking this crowd-pleaser that’ll become your go-to recipe.
Ingredients
To bring our easy chocolate ricotta brick cake to life, we’ve curated a simple list of ingredients that blend rich, creamy textures with deep chocolate flavors. Below, we organize them in the order you’ll use them, with precise measurements and prep notes for flawless results.
Wet Ingredients
- Ricotta cheese: 2 cups (full-fat, drained to remove excess moisture for a denser cake texture)
- Eggs: 3 large, at room temperature (beaten lightly to incorporate air)
- Unsalted butter: 1/2 cup (melted, but cooled to avoid curdling the mixture)
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon (pure, for enhancing the chocolate’s depth)
Dry Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: 1 1/2 cups (sifted to prevent lumps and ensure even baking)
- Cocoa powder: 3/4 cup (unsweetened, high-quality for bold chocolate flavor)
- Granulated sugar: 1 cup (fine-grained for quick dissolving)
- Baking powder: 1 1/2 teaspoons (fresh, to help the cake rise perfectly)
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon (fine sea salt, to balance sweetness)
Add-Ins and Toppings
- Dark chocolate chips: 1/2 cup (semi-sweet, optional for added gooey pockets of chocolate)
- Powdered sugar: For dusting (about 1/4 cup, sifted, to finish the cake with a light, elegant touch)
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Protein | 8g |
| Carbohydrates | 45g |
| Fat | 15g |
| Sugar | 25g |
Required Tools and Equipment
To prepare our easy chocolate ricotta brick cake smoothly and efficiently, we recommend gathering these essential tools and equipment. This setup ensures precise measurements, even mixing, and perfect baking results, building on the ingredients we’ve outlined earlier.
- Mixing Bowls: We need at least two medium-sized bowls—one for combining wet ingredients like ricotta and eggs, and another for dry ingredients such as flour and cocoa powder—to keep everything organized and prevent cross-contamination.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to our recipe’s success, so use a set of dry measuring cups (for flour and sugar) and liquid measuring cups (for ingredients like melted butter), along with spoons for smaller quantities like baking powder and salt.
- Whisk or Electric Mixer: A sturdy whisk works for blending the batter by hand, but for a fluffier texture, we suggest an electric mixer to incorporate air into the ricotta and egg mixture quickly and evenly.
- 9×5-inch Loaf Pan: This is ideal for our brick cake’s shape and density; grease it well or line with parchment paper to ensure the cake releases easily after baking.
- Spatula: A flexible silicone spatula helps us scrape down the sides of the bowl and fold in add-ins like chocolate chips without deflating the batter.
- Oven Thermometer: To guarantee even baking, we recommend an oven thermometer for monitoring the actual temperature, as oven variations can affect the cake’s moisture and rise.
- Cooling Rack: After baking, place the cake on a wire rack to cool evenly and prevent sogginess, allowing the flavors to set perfectly.
With these tools in hand, we’re all set to move forward with the preparation steps.
Instructions
We guide you through the simple steps to bake our easy chocolate ricotta brick cake, ensuring a moist and flavorful result every time. With these instructions, you’ll transform basic ingredients into an impressive dessert.
Prepare the Batter
First, gather your wet and dry ingredients as listed earlier. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup ricotta cheese, 2 large eggs, 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy with a rich, tangy aroma.
Next, in a separate bowl, sift 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup cocoa powder, 1 cup granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon salt to ensure even distribution and eliminate lumps.
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula, stirring just until combined to maintain a light, airy batter—overmixing can make the cake tough. If desired, gently fold in 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips for added bursts of melted chocolate goodness.
Bake the Cake
Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan to prevent sticking.
Pour the prepared batter into the greased pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula for a uniform rise and golden crust.
Bake in the center of the oven for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, filling your kitchen with the irresistible scent of warm chocolate and ricotta.
Cool and Serve
Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes to set its structure and enhance the flavors.
Transfer the cake to a cooling rack and allow it to cool completely for about 1 hour, resulting in a tender, sliceable texture perfect for serving.
Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar if desired and slice into generous portions to enjoy the dense, velvety layers of our chocolate ricotta brick cake—ideal for pairing with coffee or fresh berries.
Make-Ahead and Storage
To maximize convenience with our easy chocolate ricotta brick cake, make-ahead options and proper storage techniques ensure you can enjoy its moist, velvety texture whenever the craving strikes. Let’s explore how to plan ahead and keep your cake fresh.
Make-Ahead Tips
We love making this cake in advance for effortless entertaining or busy schedules. Prepare the batter or bake the cake ahead of time to save steps without compromising flavor.
- Batter Preparation: Whisk together the wet and dry ingredients as described in the baking steps, then cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, let the batter sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes to soften before pouring it into the greased loaf pan.
- Fully Baked Cake: Bake the cake completely, allow it to cool fully on the rack, and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store at room temperature for up to 2 days before serving, or freeze for longer storage (more details below). This method preserves the cake’s dense, chocolatey richness, making it ideal for meal prep.
Storage Guidelines
Proper storage maintains the cake’s creamy ricotta-infused moisture and prevents it from drying out. Always ensure the cake has cooled completely before storing to avoid condensation.
| Storage Method | Duration | Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Up to 3 days | Place the cooled cake in an airtight container or wrap it securely in plastic wrap. Keep it in a cool, dry spot away from direct sunlight for optimal texture. |
| Refrigerator | Up to 5 days | Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to lock in moisture. This is perfect if your kitchen is warm, as it helps preserve the ricotta’s creamy consistency—simply bring slices to room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving. |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | For long-term storage, wrap individual slices or the whole cake in a double layer of plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and refresh in a 300°F oven for 5-10 minutes to restore its soft, decadent appeal. |
By following these make-ahead and storage practices, your chocolate ricotta brick cake stays as irresistible as the day you baked it.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing this easy chocolate ricotta brick cake recipe with you
It’s a simple way to create something truly special in your kitchen
Give it a try and enjoy the rich flavors that make every bite memorable
We’re confident it’ll become one of your favorites for effortless baking
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a chocolate ricotta brick cake?
A chocolate ricotta brick cake is a simple, moist dessert that combines creamy ricotta cheese with rich cocoa for a dense, velvety treat. It’s perfect for beginners or busy days, offering an impressive result with minimal effort. This recipe highlights its ease and crowd-pleasing appeal, making it a go-to for effortless baking.
What ingredients are needed for this cake?
You’ll need wet ingredients like ricotta cheese, eggs, melted unsalted butter, and vanilla extract, plus dry ones such as all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Optional add-ins include dark chocolate chips. This list ensures a balanced, flavorful cake that’s straightforward to prepare.
How do I make chocolate ricotta brick cake?
Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan. Whisk wet ingredients (ricotta, eggs, butter, vanilla) in one bowl and sift dry ingredients (flour, cocoa, sugar, baking powder, salt) in another. Fold them together, add any extras like chocolate chips, pour into the pan, and bake for 45-50 minutes until a toothpick is clean. Cool and dust with powdered sugar.
Is this cake suitable for beginners?
Yes, it’s ideal for beginners due to its straightforward steps and forgiving nature. The recipe uses basic ingredients and simple techniques like whisking and folding, with tips for success. You’ll impress guests with minimal effort, making it great for first-time bakers or quick desserts.
What tools do I need to bake this cake?
Essential tools include mixing bowls for wet and dry ingredients, measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, a whisk or electric mixer for blending, a 9×5-inch loaf pan, a spatula for folding, an oven thermometer for temperature control, and a cooling rack. These basics ensure a smooth baking process.
How should I store the chocolate ricotta brick cake?
Store at room temperature for up to 3 days in an airtight container, refrigerate for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. For make-ahead, prepare batter up to 24 hours in advance or bake ahead and thaw as needed. This keeps the cake moist and flavorful for easy entertaining.
What are the nutritional facts per serving?
Each serving has about 250-300 calories, with roughly 8g protein, 30g carbohydrates, 15g fat, and 20g sugar, varying by add-ins. It’s a moderately indulgent treat, offering a balance of nutrients from ingredients like ricotta and cocoa, but enjoy in moderation as part of a balanced diet.