Ricotta Pie
Ricotta Pie offers a creamy, citrus-infused filling with a delicate sweetness and subtle tang, ideal for brunch or dessert. Its smooth texture and vibrant flavors make it a crowd-pleaser for family gatherings or special occasions, combining comforting richness with refreshing citrus zest.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ricotta cheese, all-purpose flour, grated orange peel, grated lemon peel, vanilla, and a pinch of salt; set aside.
- Beat the eggs until foamy; add the sugar.
- Stir the egg mixture into the ricotta mixture until well blended and smooth.
- Pour the mixture into an unbaked pie shell.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 50 to 60 minutes or until the mixture is firm and the pastry is golden brown.
- Remove from oven and place on a cooling rack until cool.
- Keep refrigerated before serving.
- Eat and enjoy.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, use whole-milk ricotta instead of part-skim. You can substitute the orange peel with lemon peel for a more citrusy flavor. If you want to make this pie gluten-free, replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. To enhance sweetness, consider adding a bit of sugar to the ricotta mixture. This pie also works great as a base for fruit toppings like berries.
Serving Suggestions
This ricotta pie is delicious on its own but pairs beautifully with fresh fruit or a drizzle of honey for added sweetness. Serve it alongside a light salad for a refreshing contrast. You might also enjoy it with a slice of Quick Garlic Bread or as a dessert following a hearty meal like Classic Alfredo Pasta. It’s a delightful end to any Italian-inspired dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave for about 30 seconds or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can warm the whole pie in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) for 10-15 minutes, covering it with foil to prevent browning.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ricotta Pie contains roughly 129 calories, with 2g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 892mg per serving (39% of the Daily Value).
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 use a store-bought pie crust?
Absolutely! A store-bought pie crust can save time and still yield a delicious result. Just make sure to follow the package instructions for blind-baking if required. If you prefer homemade, a simple shortcrust pastry works well too.
How can I tell when the pie is done baking?
The pie is done when the center is firm and doesn't jiggle. The top should also be lightly golden. You can insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, the pie is ready. Keep in mind that the pie will continue to firm up as it cools.
Can I freeze the ricotta pie?
Yes, you can freeze the ricotta pie. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and place it in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
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).