Ricotta Squares
Ricotta Squares are creamy, sweet dessert bars with a tender cake base, perfect for gatherings or a comforting treat, offering a delightful blend of ricotta and vanilla flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare cake mix according to directions on box and pour into an ungreased 9 x 13 inch pan.
- Beat eggs in a separate bowl.
- Add sugar, ricotta, and vanilla to the eggs and beat well.
- Pour the ricotta mixture over the cake batter in the pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour.
- Open the oven door and let cool in the oven for 1 hour.
- Once completely cool, cut into squares and remove from the pan with a spatula.
- Sprinkle with powdered sugar before serving.
- Keep refrigerated.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider folding in some whipped egg whites after mixing the ricotta mixture. If you don’t have ricotta, cottage cheese can be a good substitute; just blend it until smooth. You can also enhance the flavor by adding a teaspoon of lemon zest or almond extract. For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free yellow cake mix.
Serving Suggestions
These Ricotta Squares are delightful served cold or at room temperature. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea and are perfect for brunch. For an extra touch, serve with fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. You could also try serving them alongside Homemade Butter Mints for a delightful dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place individual squares in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or until warmed through. Avoid reheating the entire dish at once, as it may dry out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ricotta Squares contains roughly 194 calories, with 2g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 2g fat.
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 Ricotta Squares in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the Ricotta Squares a day ahead. Simply bake them, let them cool, and refrigerate. They taste even better the next day as the flavors meld. Just remember to sprinkle with powdered sugar before serving for a fresh look.
Can I freeze Ricotta Squares?
Yes, these squares freeze well. After baking and cooling, cut them into squares and wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, then store in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
What can I serve with Ricotta Squares?
Ricotta Squares are versatile and can be served with various accompaniments. Consider fresh fruit, such as strawberries or raspberries, or a dollop of whipped cream. They also go well with a light fruit compote or a side of Milky Way Salad for a festive touch.
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).