Description

Cassata alla Siciliana is a decadent Sicilian cake layered with citrus-infused pound cake, sweet ricotta filling, and adorned with chocolate frosting, perfect for any celebration.

Ingredients

Units Scale

CAKE

1 box of pound cake mix, baked with 1 tsp. orange zest
16 oz. whole milk ricotta
2 Tbls. heavy cream
1/4 cup sugar
3 Tbls. Gran Marnier, plus more for drizzling on layers
3 Tbls. mixed candied fruit, chopped
2 oz. semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
3 Tbls. pistachios, toasted and chopped

FROSTING

12 oz. semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
3/4 cup strong black coffee, brewed
1/2 lb. unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small pieces

Instructions

Prepare the pound cake mix according to the package instructions, adding 1 tsp of orange zest to the batter. Bake and allow to cool completely.
Drain the ricotta through a coarse sieve for about 3 hours to remove excess liquid.
Trim the cooled pound cake on all sides to create straight edges using a serrated knife. Slice horizontally into about three 1/2-inch slabs.
In a mixing bowl, beat the drained ricotta with heavy cream, sugar, and 3 tbsp of Grand Marnier until smooth and creamy.
Fold in the mixed candied fruit, toasted chopped pistachios, and dark chocolate chunks into the ricotta mixture.
Place the first layer of pound cake on a serving plate lined with wax paper. Drizzle with a little Grand Marnier.
Spread a generous layer of the ricotta mixture over the cake. Repeat with the remaining layers, drizzling each with Grand Marnier and spreading with ricotta mixture.
Once assembled, cover the cake with chocolate frosting, using a spatula to create decorative designs if desired.
Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Notes

Use a serrated knife for clean cuts on the pound cake. The wax paper helps keep the serving plate clean during assembly. For a traditional touch, decorate with more candied fruit. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cake tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.

Prep Time: 3 hours
Cook Time: 1 hour
Category: Dessert
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 450
Sugar: 35
Sodium: 250
Fat: 22
Carbohydrates: 55
Fiber: 2
Protein: 8
Cholesterol: 60