How to Make Italian Ricotta Pie with Lemon
Italian Ricotta Pie with Lemon, also known as "Crostata di Ricotta," is a delightful dessert that combines the creamy texture of ricotta cheese with the refreshing zest of lemon. This traditional Italian dish is perfect for family gatherings or special occasions. Let’s dive into the steps to create this delicious pie.
Ingredients You Will Need
- For the crust:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- For the filling:
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and sugar. Cream them together until light and fluffy.
2. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing well.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture until a dough forms.
4. Once combined, wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This will make the dough easier to handle.
Step 2: Make the Ricotta Filling
1. In another mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese and granulated sugar. Mix until smooth.
2. Add the eggs, lemon zest, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and salt. Blend all the ingredients until well combined, ensuring a creamy texture.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Once the dough has chilled, take it out of the refrigerator. Roll out about two-thirds of the dough on a floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie pan.
3. Press the rolled dough into the bottom and sides of the pie pan, trimming any excess.
4. Pour the ricotta filling into the prepared crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
5. Using the remaining dough, create strips for a lattice pattern on top of the pie. Alternatively, you can cover the pie with a full layer if you prefer.
Step 4: Bake the Pie
1. Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
2. Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool at room temperature. Then, refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
1. Before serving, you can dust the top with powdered sugar for added sweetness and presentation.
2. Slice the pie and serve it chilled. The combination of creamy ricotta and zesty lemon is sure to delight your guests.
Enjoy your homemade Italian Ricotta Pie with Lemon as a delicious way to satisfy your dessert cravings! This treat not only showcases the wonderful flavors of Italy but also makes for a great conversation starter at your next gathering.