Description

A light, cheesecake-like dessert softened with ricotta cheese and sweetened with an apple, perfect for a simple autumn treat.

Ingredients

Units Scale

1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 tbsp baking powder
A pinch of salt
8 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup sugar (increase to 1 cup if you want a sweeter cake)
3 large eggs
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 apple, peeled, cored, and finely chopped
1 tsp vanilla extract
Zest of 1 lemon
Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Butter and flour a 9-10 inch springform pan to prevent sticking.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar using a stand mixer or hand mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
Add the eggs one at a time to the butter mixture, beating well after each addition until fully incorporated.
Mix in the ricotta cheese, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until combined.
Gently fold in the flour mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Fold in the chopped apple until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Pour the batter into the prepared springform pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then remove the sides of the springform pan and let it cool completely on a wire rack.
Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Notes

This cake does not have a strong apple flavor, making it ideal for those who prefer a subtle fruit taste. The ricotta gives it a creamy, cheesecake-like texture. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you prefer a sweeter cake, increase the sugar to 1 cup. Serve with a dusting of powdered sugar for a touch of elegance.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Category: Dessert
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 250
Sugar: 15
Sodium: 150
Fat: 13
Carbohydrates: 28
Fiber: 1
Protein: 6
Cholesterol: 75