A Lemon Ricotta Olive Oil Cake is a light, flavorful dessert that combines the creamy richness of ricotta cheese with the zesty freshness of lemon and the subtle fruitiness of olive oil. It’s perfect for any occasion, especially when you’re craving something a bit different from the usual cake. Here’s a simple recipe to make this delicious cake:
Ingredients:
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1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
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1 tsp baking powder
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1/2 tsp baking soda
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1/2 tsp salt
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1/2 cup ricotta cheese (drained)
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1/2 cup olive oil (extra virgin for best flavor)
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1 cup granulated sugar
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3 large eggs
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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1 tbsp lemon zest (from about 2 lemons)
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1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
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1/2 cup whole milk (or buttermilk for extra richness)
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Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)
Instructions:
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
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Mix the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
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Beat the wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the ricotta cheese, olive oil, and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
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Combine the dry and wet ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
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Bake the cake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
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Cool: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove it from the pan and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
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Serve: Once cooled, dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar (optional). Slice and enjoy the cake on its own or with a dollop of whipped cream or fresh berries for an extra touch!
This cake has a wonderfully moist crumb due to the ricotta and olive oil, and the lemon gives it a refreshing zing. Enjoy!
