Ricotta Cheesecake

Sharing is caring!

Cheesecake lovers, rejoice! This Ricotta Cheesecake recipe by Paula Montenegro combines the familiar, creamy richness of cheesecake with a light, airy twist. This cheesecake is perfect for anyone seeking a dessert that’s both comforting and elegant. Ricotta cheese lends a hint of rustic texture, while cream cheese brings its classic smoothness, creating a blend of flavors that’s sweet, creamy, and just a touch tangy. Whether enjoyed plain, with fresh berries, or a drizzle of caramel, this cheesecake is a showstopper.

Print

In this recipe, we’ll break down every detail to ensure you achieve a cheesecake that’s golden and slightly rustic yet melts in your mouth. We’ll cover key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and variations and serving tips to make this dessert truly your own.

The Ingredients

Each ingredient in this cheesecake is carefully selected to balance taste and texture. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need:

For the Crumb Crust:

• Graham Cracker Crumbs (1 ½ cups): These create a classic, buttery base that enhances the cheesecake’s creamy filling. Feel free to substitute with crushed digestive biscuits or shortbread cookies if desired.
• Unsalted Butter (6 tablespoons, melted): The melted butter binds the crumbs and adds a rich, slightly nutty flavor to the crust.

For the Ricotta Filling:

• Cream Cheese (1 ½ cups, room temperature): Bringing smoothness and richness, cream cheese balances the lightness of the ricotta, giving that classic cheesecake texture.
• Ricotta Cheese (1 ½ cups, room temperature): Ricotta’s light and fluffy texture sets this cheesecake apart, making it softer and airier than typical cheesecakes.
• Sour Cream (⅔ cup, room temperature): Adds a mild tang and creaminess, softening the texture and enhancing the flavor.
• Sugar (¾ cup): Just the right amount of sweetness, adding balance without overpowering the gentle tang of the cheese.
• Eggs (4, room temperature): Eggs bind and provide structure. Room-temperature eggs mix more evenly, helping to achieve a uniform texture.
• Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): Adds warmth and aroma that enhances all the ingredients.
• Lemon Zest (2 teaspoons): A bit of zest brightens up the flavor, giving a fresh finish that pairs beautifully with ricotta.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making the Crust

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat to 325°F (170°C) to prepare for the crust.
2. Combine the Crust Ingredients: In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Ensure every crumb is coated to create a firm crust that won’t crumble.
3. Press and Bake: Press the crumb mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, using a measuring cup or your hands to create an even layer. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove and allow it to cool on a rack. Leave the oven on!

Preparing the Ricotta Filling

1. Lower the Temperature: Reduce the oven to 275°F (140°C).
2. Mix the Cheese Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, ricotta, and sour cream. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Using room-temperature cheeses is crucial for a lump-free filling.
3. Incorporate the Sugar: Gradually add sugar, mixing until fully dissolved.
4. Add Eggs Slowly: Add the eggs two at a time, mixing gently with a whisk. Avoid over-mixing, as air bubbles can lead to cracks.
5. Finish with Flavorings: Stir in the vanilla extract and lemon zest for a subtle aromatic lift. A few small ricotta pieces may remain; that’s perfectly fine!

Assembling and Baking the Cheesecake

1. Pour and Smooth: Pour the filling into the prepared crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. It’s fine if the crust is still slightly warm.
2. Bake to Perfection: Bake for about 1 hour and 20 minutes, checking about 10 minutes early if needed. The cheesecake should be slightly jiggly in the center but set around the edges.
3. Cool and Chill: Let the cheesecake cool to room temperature on a rack, then wrap in plastic and refrigerate for at least 6 hours (overnight for best results).

Serving

To serve, loosen the edges with a smooth knife, release the pan’s ring, and carefully transfer the cheesecake to a serving plate. Enjoy it cold or at room temperature with a topping of choice!

Flavor and Texture

Each bite of this Ricotta Cheesecake is an experience. The ricotta and cream cheese combination creates a melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s light yet creamy. A touch of lemon zest shines through, balancing the sweet and tangy profile of the filling. The buttery graham crust adds a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the smooth filling. With a slight tang from the sour cream, this cheesecake has a depth of flavor that’s familiar yet surprising.

Tips and Variations

• Ingredient Substitutions: Swap graham cracker crumbs for digestive biscuits for a slightly richer crust. Mascarpone can replace cream cheese for an extra creamy filling, though it may be softer.
• Adding a Flavor Twist: Try orange zest instead of lemon for a warmer citrus note, or add a teaspoon of almond extract for a nutty undertone.
• Serving Suggestions: Fresh raspberries or strawberries complement the tanginess of the filling. For added indulgence, drizzle caramel or serve with a dollop of whipped cream.
• Make-Ahead and Storage: This cheesecake keeps well in the fridge for 4-5 days, making it an excellent make-ahead dessert for gatherings. Wrap well and freeze for up to a month; just thaw in the fridge when ready to serve.

Troubleshooting and Tips for Success

• Watery Texture: Be sure to drain ricotta if it’s watery to prevent a runny filling.
• Avoid Overbaking: Check the cheesecake 10 minutes before the recommended time. It should be set around the edges but still slightly jiggly in the center.
• Preventing Cracks: Minimize air by mixing gently and bake slowly at a low temperature. If cracks appear, don’t worry—just cover them with a topping!

Conclusion

This Ricotta Cheesecake is a delicious, sophisticated dessert with the perfect balance of creaminess, sweetness, and subtle tang. Easy to make and versatile with toppings, it’s a treat that will please a crowd or make a cozy night at home extra special. Embrace the art of homemade cheesecake, and let this be your go-to recipe for gatherings, holidays, and indulgent treats. With each slice, enjoy the light, rustic texture that makes ricotta cheesecake a unique twist on the classic. Happy baking!