Sweet Ricotta Cheese Pie
A rich and creamy ricotta cheese pie infused with vanilla and orange peel, accented by cherries and chocolate chips, perfect for dessert gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Blend ricotta cheese, sugar, flour, salt, vanilla, orange peel, eggs, cherries, and chocolate chips together until smooth.
- Pour the mixture into the graham cracker pie shell.
- Bake for 1 hour or until set and lightly golden.
- Allow to cool before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, make sure to use whole milk ricotta cheese. If you don't have cherries, feel free to substitute them with blueberries or raspberries for a different flavor profile. To enhance the richness of the pie, consider adding a splash of almond extract along with the vanilla. This Sweet Ricotta Cheese Pie can also be made gluten-free by using a gluten-free graham cracker crust.
Serving Suggestions
This Sweet Ricotta Cheese Pie is delightful on its own, but you can elevate it by serving with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Pair with fresh fruit or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for added flavor. It also makes a lovely dessert to accompany a light meal or brunch, like the Champagne Breakfast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a microwave for 15-30 seconds until warmed through, being cautious not to overheat, which can change the texture. Alternatively, serve chilled for a refreshing treat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sweet Ricotta Cheese Pie contains roughly 270 calories, with 6g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (47% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 930mg per serving (40% 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 make this pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! This pie can be made a day in advance. Just ensure it is properly cooled and stored in the refrigerator. Allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving for the best flavor and texture.
What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?
If you need a substitute for ricotta cheese, you can use cottage cheese blended until smooth or even cream cheese for a richer flavor. Keep in mind that using cream cheese will alter the taste slightly, making it richer and denser.
Is it possible to add different flavors to this pie?
Yes! You can customize this pie by adding different extracts such as almond or lemon, or even mixing in spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. For a chocolate version, consider folding in cocoa powder or using chocolate-flavored chips instead of regular chocolate chips.
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).