Description
This Italian Ricotta Pie offers a delightful balance of creamy ricotta cheese and sweet flavors accented by vanilla, lemon zest, and almond extract. Enhanced with plump raisins, this classic dessert is baked in a flaky pie crust to create a comforting and joyful treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Filling
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 1/4 cup raisins
Crust
- 1 pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for even baking before you start preparing the pie.
- Mix ricotta and sugar: In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese and sugar, stirring until the mixture is smooth and creamy without lumps.
- Add flavorings and eggs: Crack in the eggs, then add the vanilla extract, lemon zest, and almond extract. Mix thoroughly to evenly incorporate all the ingredients.
- Fold in raisins: Gently fold the raisins into the ricotta mixture, distributing them evenly to add bursts of sweetness throughout the pie.
- Fill the pie crust: Pour the prepared filling into the pie crust, spreading it out evenly to create a smooth surface for baking.
- Bake the pie: Place the pie on a middle rack in the oven and bake for approximately 45 minutes or until the filling is set and slightly golden on top.
- Cool before serving: Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool completely, which helps the filling to firm up and enhances the flavors before slicing and serving.
Notes
- You can substitute raisins with dried cranberries or chopped dried apricots for a different fruity touch.
- Allow the pie to cool fully to avoid the filling being too loose when cut.
- Use a refrigerated pie crust for convenience or make your own homemade crust for added flavor.
- For extra zestiness, add a little more lemon zest but adjust according to taste.
- This dessert pairs beautifully with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey before serving.
