How to Make the Ultimate Italian Ricotta Lemon Pie
If you're looking to impress your family and friends with a delicious dessert, making an Italian Ricotta Lemon Pie is a fantastic choice. This delightful pie combines the creamy texture of ricotta cheese with the refreshing zing of lemon, resulting in a dessert that's both rich and light. Here's how to make the ultimate Italian Ricotta Lemon Pie.
Ingredients
To create this mouthwatering pie, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 pre-made pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 ½ cups of ricotta cheese
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- Zest of 2 lemons
- ⅓ cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon of flour (optional, for thickening)
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions
Follow these step-by-step instructions to make your Italian Ricotta Lemon Pie:
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your pie bakes evenly and achieves that perfect golden color.
2. Prepare the Pie Crust
If you are using a store-bought pie crust, place it in a 9-inch pie dish. If you're making your own crust, roll it out and fit it into the pie dish. Prick the bottom of the crust with a fork to prevent it from puffing up during baking.
3. Mix the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice. If you prefer a thicker filling, add a tablespoon of flour. Using an electric mixer, blend the ingredients until smooth and creamy. Avoid over-mixing to keep the texture light.
4. Pour the Filling
Pour the ricotta mixture into the prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
5. Bake the Pie
Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for about 45-50 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is lightly golden. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.
6. Cool Down
Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. After that, refrigerate for at least 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the pie to set properly.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Before serving, dust the top of the pie with powdered sugar for an elegant finish. Slice and serve chilled. The combination of creamy ricotta with the zesty flavor of lemon is sure to delight everyone at your table.
Tips for the Perfect Ricotta Lemon Pie
- For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a few drops of lemon extract.
- You can also garnish the pie with fresh berries or mint leaves.
- Store any leftovers in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for up to three days.
This Italian Ricotta Lemon Pie is not only easy to make but also a show-stopper at any gathering. With its creamy texture and zesty flavor, it’s a dessert that everyone will love. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful treat!