Go Back
Delicious citrus ricotta cake topped with fresh fruit and zest.

Lemon Ricotta Cake

A delightful dessert that combines tangy lemon flavors with creamy ricotta for a light and refreshing cake, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Course Dessert, Snack
Cuisine American, Italian
Servings 8 servings
Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1.5 cups cake flour This fine flour ensures a light and tender crumb.
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder Helps the cake rise.
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt Enhances flavors.
  • 0.5 cups unsalted butter (room temperature) Adds richness.
  • 1 cup granulated sugar Sweetens the cake.
  • 2 medium lemons (zest) Infuses the cake with intense citrus aroma.
  • 3 large eggs (room temperature) Essential for moisture.
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese Contributes moist texture.
  • 0.25 cups freshly squeezed lemon juice Provides brightness.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Adds warmth to flavor.

For the Glaze

  • 1 cup powdered sugar Sweetens and thickens the glaze.
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest Brightens the glaze.
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice Balances sweetness.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
  • In a bowl, whisk together the cake flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined; set aside.
  • Cream together the unsalted butter and granulated sugar in a mixing bowl until light and fluffy, about 3–5 minutes.
  • Add the eggs one by one, mixing well after each addition.
  • Gently mix in the ricotta cheese, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
  • Slowly incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just blended, avoiding overmixing.
  • Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.

Baking

  • Bake for approximately 55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Glaze Preparation

  • While the cake cools, whisk together powdered sugar, lemon zest, and lemon juice until smooth.
  • Once the cake has cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top.

Notes

Ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature for smooth batter. Avoid overmixing for a light texture.
Keyword Easy Cake Recipe, Homemade Cake, Lemon Dessert, Lemon Ricotta Cake, Ricotta cake