Italian Cheese Pie
Italian Cheese Pie offers a creamy, sweet filling with hints of lemon, nestled in a buttery pie shell. Its rich texture and delicate flavor make it perfect for dessert or a special treat, appealing to cheese lovers and those seeking a comforting, classic Italian-inspired dessert.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven and prepare the pie shell.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, eggs, sugar, flour, and lemon extract until smooth.
- Pour the mixture into the pie shell.
- Bake until set and lightly golden on top.
- Allow to cool, then top with any desired toppings or sprinkle powdered sugar before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, use whole milk ricotta or mix in some mascarpone cheese. If you prefer a sweeter pie, increase the sugar slightly or add a touch of vanilla extract. You can substitute lemon extract with fresh lemon juice for a more vibrant flavor. Ensure your pie shell is pre-baked for a crispier bottom, especially if using a store-bought option.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of the Italian Cheese Pie with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for added sweetness. It pairs beautifully with a light dusting of powdered sugar and can be enjoyed alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. This pie is also delightful with a side of Italian recipes, making it a perfect finish for a cozy dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave for about 30 seconds or until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, covering with foil to prevent over-browning.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Italian Cheese Pie contains roughly 263 calories, with 5g protein, 59g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (44% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pie a day in advance. Bake it, let it cool completely, then cover it and store it in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld together. Just remember to add any toppings right before serving to maintain their freshness.
What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?
If you're looking for a substitute for ricotta cheese, consider using cottage cheese blended until smooth or a vegan alternative like tofu blended with a bit of lemon juice and nutritional yeast. These options will give a similar texture, though the flavor may vary slightly.
How do I know when the pie is fully baked?
The pie is fully baked when the edges are set, and the center is slightly jiggly but not liquid. A light golden color on top is a good indicator as well. If you insert a knife, it should come out clean from the edges, even if the center has a bit of softness.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).