Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This traditional Ricotta Pie, rooted in Italian heritage, delivers a rich and comforting dessert perfect for any occasion. With its creamy ricotta filling, subtly sweet flavor, and flaky crust, this pie is a perfect blend of textures and tastes that will transport you straight to Italy. The chocolate chips provide a hint of indulgence, making this pie not only delicious but also a standout at any gathering. Whether it’s Easter, a holiday, or just a cozy family treat, this ricotta pie is sure to please everyone.

Ingredients

Pie Filling:

• 12 large eggs
• 2 cups white sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 3 pounds ricotta cheese
• ¼ cup miniature semisweet chocolate chips, or to taste

Sweet Crust:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup white sugar
• 5 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ cup shortening, chilled
• 1 tablespoon shortening, chilled
• 4 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon milk

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch pie dish or a similar-sized pie pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until well combined. Add the vanilla extract and mix again.
3. Slowly incorporate the ricotta cheese into the egg mixture. Stir well until the filling is smooth and creamy.
4. Gently fold in the chocolate chips to distribute them evenly throughout the filling. Set aside.
5. To prepare the sweet crust, combine the flour, sugar, and baking powder in a large bowl. Add the chilled shortening and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
6. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, vanilla extract, and milk together. Gradually add this wet mixture to the dry ingredients and stir to form a dough.
7. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to fit your pie pan. Press the dough into the pan, ensuring an even layer along the bottom and sides.
8. Pour the ricotta filling into the prepared crust and smooth it into an even layer.
9. Bake the pie for 45-50 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is set in the center. The filling may puff up slightly during baking but will settle as it cools.
10. Allow the pie to cool completely before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8-10
• Preparation time: 30 minutes
• Cooking time: 45-50 minutes
• Cooling time: 2 hours (or until completely cooled)

Variations

• Chocolate Ricotta Pie: Increase the amount of chocolate chips to make it more indulgent.
• Fruit Add-ins: Add fresh berries or sliced fruits like peaches or pears to the filling for an extra burst of flavor.
• Lemon Ricotta Pie: For a citrus twist, add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the filling.
• Gluten-Free Crust: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version of this pie.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, place a slice in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or warm the entire pie in the oven at 300°F for 10-15 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

How do I make sure the ricotta pie filling is smooth?

Ensure that the ricotta cheese is well-mixed with the eggs and sugar, and be sure to fold in the chocolate chips gently to avoid breaking the creamy texture.

Can I use a store-bought crust instead of making my own?

Yes, you can substitute a pre-made pie crust for the sweet homemade crust. Just make sure to blind-bake it before adding the ricotta filling.

Can I freeze this ricotta pie?

Yes, you can freeze the ricotta pie. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

What is the best type of ricotta to use for this pie?

Use whole-milk ricotta for the richest flavor. Make sure to drain excess liquid from the ricotta before adding it to the filling.

Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Yes, this pie is perfect for making a day or two ahead. Just store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

Can I use a different type of cheese in this recipe?

While ricotta is traditional, you could experiment with mascarpone cheese for a creamier texture, though it will change the flavor slightly.

How do I know when the ricotta pie is done?

The pie is done when the filling is set and no longer jiggles in the center. The crust should be golden brown.

What should I serve this ricotta pie with?

Serve with a dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of honey, or a dollop of whipped cream for added richness.

Can I make this pie with dairy-free substitutes?

Yes, you can use dairy-free ricotta and a dairy-free crust if you want to make this pie vegan or lactose-free.

What other toppings can I add to this pie?

You can top the pie with fresh fruits like berries, a chocolate ganache drizzle, or even candied nuts for a crunch.

Conclusion

This Ricotta Pie recipe is an exceptional dessert, combining the smooth richness of ricotta with a perfectly flaky, sweet crust. It’s a delightful Italian treat that brings warmth, tradition, and flavor to your table. Whether enjoyed for a holiday or a casual family gathering, this pie will undoubtedly become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.

Print