Description
Italian Love Cake is a rich and decadent dessert featuring a moist chocolate cake base topped with a creamy ricotta cheese layer and finished with a luscious chocolate pudding and whipped topping frosting. This classic Italian-American treat combines the lightness of ricotta with the indulgence of chocolate, making it perfect for special occasions or comforting everyday indulgence.
Ingredients
Scale
Cake
- 1 box chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients called for on the box, typically water, oil, and eggs)
Ricotta Mixture
- 2 pounds ricotta cheese
- 4 large eggs
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Frosting
- 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping, thawed
- 1 (3.4 oz) box instant chocolate pudding mix
- 1 cup cold milk
Instructions
- Prepare Cake Batter: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Prepare the chocolate cake batter according to the instructions on the box, ensuring all ingredients are thoroughly combined. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish evenly.
- Make Ricotta Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, eggs, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix well until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and fully incorporated. Gently spoon this ricotta mixture over the chocolate cake batter, spreading it evenly to cover the entire surface.
- Bake the Cake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean when the cake is ready. Once baked, remove the cake and allow it to cool completely in the pan.
- Prepare Frosting: In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix with cold milk until it thickens. Once thickened, gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until you have a smooth and creamy frosting.
- Frost and Chill: Spread the prepared frosting evenly over the cooled cake layer. Cover the cake and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the frosting to set. Serve chilled for best taste and texture.
Notes
- Ensure the cake is completely cooled before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
- You can substitute homemade whipped cream for the whipped topping if desired.
- For a more intense chocolate flavor, use dark chocolate instant pudding mix.
- This cake is best served chilled and can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Make sure to use full-fat ricotta cheese for the creamiest texture.
