Description
Lemon Pistachio Ricotta Cloud Cake is a light, airy, and moist cake made with creamy ricotta cheese, zesty lemon, and nutty pistachios, creating a delicate and flavorful dessert that feels like biting into a cloud.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 large eggs, separated
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 2 lemons
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup shelled pistachios, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8-inch round cake pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, beat ricotta cheese, sugar, and butter until light and creamy.
- Add egg yolks one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually fold dry ingredients into the ricotta mixture until just combined.
- In another bowl, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gently fold egg whites into the batter, being careful not to deflate them.
- Fold in chopped pistachios.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool completely in the pan, then transfer to a serving plate.
- Dust with powdered sugar and sprinkle with extra chopped pistachios before serving.
Notes
- Use whole milk ricotta for the creamiest texture.
- Toast pistachios lightly before chopping for enhanced flavor.
- This cake pairs beautifully with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
Keywords: lemon ricotta cake, pistachio ricotta cake, Italian ricotta dessert