Ricotta Pie

This Ricotta Pie is a classic Italian dessert with a creamy, lightly sweet ricotta filling inside a buttery, flaky crust. Traditionally served during Easter, this pie is rich yet delicate, with hints of vanilla and citrus for a perfect balance of flavors. Whether enjoyed as a holiday treat or an everyday dessert, this ricotta pie is sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich & Creamy – Smooth ricotta filling with a delicate texture.
• Authentic Italian Flavor – A traditional Italian dessert with a hint of citrus and vanilla.
• Perfect for Holidays – A must-have for Easter, Christmas, or special occasions.
• Simple Yet Elegant – Easy to make with just a few ingredients.
• Customizable – Add chocolate chips, citrus zest, or liqueur for extra flavor.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Pie Crust:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 2 eggs
• 2 tbsp milk

For the Ricotta Filling:

• 2 cups whole milk ricotta cheese, drained if watery
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 3 eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ tsp almond extract (optional)
• 1 tsp lemon zest (or orange zest)
• ¼ tsp cinnamon (optional)
• ½ cup mini chocolate chips (optional)

Directions

this recipe

1. Prepare the Dough

• In a large bowl, whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
• Cut in butter using a pastry cutter or fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
• Add eggs and milk, mixing until a dough forms.
• Wrap in plastic wrap and chill for 30 minutes.

2. Preheat Oven & Roll the Dough

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Roll out ⅔ of the dough to fit a 9-inch pie pan.
• Press into the pan and trim any excess.
• Use the remaining dough to make strips for a lattice top (optional).

3. Make the Ricotta Filling

• In a bowl, whisk together ricotta, sugar, eggs, vanilla, almond extract, lemon zest, and cinnamon until smooth.
• Stir in chocolate chips if using.

4. Assemble & Bake

• Pour filling into the prepared crust.
• If making a lattice top, lay the strips over the filling.
• Bake for 50-55 minutes, or until the center is set and golden brown.

5. Cool & Serve

• Let cool completely before slicing.
• Dust with powdered sugar or serve with fresh fruit.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8-10
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Chill Time: 30 minutes
• Bake Time: 50-55 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes

Variations

• Sicilian Style – Add candied citrus peel and swap almond extract for orange blossom water.
• Chocolate Lovers – Use ½ cup cocoa powder in the filling for a chocolate ricotta pie.
• Liqueur-Infused – Add 1 tbsp Amaretto or Marsala wine to the filling.
• No-Crust Option – Bake as a crustless ricotta pie in a greased dish.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store covered in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Wrap slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Serve cold or bring to room temperature before eating.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought pie crust?

Yes! A pre-made crust works for a quicker version.

Do I need to drain the ricotta?

If your ricotta is watery, drain it using cheesecloth for a smoother filling.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! It tastes even better the next day after chilling.

How do I know when it’s done?

The center should be set but slightly jiggly, and edges golden.

What’s the best way to serve it?

With powdered sugar, fresh berries, or a drizzle of honey.

Can I use low-fat ricotta?

Full-fat ricotta gives the best texture, but low-fat can work.

Can I skip the lattice top?

Yes! Bake it with just the filling for a simpler version.

What can I use instead of chocolate chips?

Try raisins, chopped nuts, or dried cranberries.

Can I use mascarpone instead of ricotta?

Yes! The texture will be richer and creamier.

Can I make mini ricotta pies?

Yes! Use a muffin tin and bake for 25-30 minutes.

Conclusion

This Ricotta Pie is a classic Italian dessert that’s creamy, lightly sweet, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it plain, with chocolate chips, or a hint of citrus, this pie is sure to become a family favorite. Try it today and enjoy a taste of traditional Italian baking!

Print