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Italian Love Cake Recipe

4.9 from 82 reviews

Italian Love Cake is a rich and indulgent dessert featuring a moist chocolate cake base layered with creamy ricotta cheese and topped with a luscious chocolate pudding frosting. This decadent treat combines the smooth texture of ricotta with the deep flavors of chocolate for a delightful and impressive cake perfect for gatherings and special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale

Ricotta Layer

  • 2 (15-ounce) containers ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 4 large eggs, room temperature

Chocolate Cake

  • 1 (15.25-ounce) box chocolate or devil’s food cake mix
  • 1/2 cup canola or vegetable oil
  • 1 cup water
  • 3 large eggs

Chocolate Pudding Frosting

  • 1 (5-ounce) box instant chocolate pudding mix
  • 3 cups cold milk
  • 1 (8-ounce) container whipped topping, thawed

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray. Set aside.
  2. Make Ricotta Mixture: In a mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to combine ricotta cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Slowly add the four large eggs, mixing well after each addition to incorporate fully.
  3. Prepare Chocolate Cake Batter: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the cake mix, oil, water, and three large eggs until the batter is smooth and well combined.
  4. Assemble Cake Layers: Pour the chocolate cake batter evenly into the prepared baking dish. Then carefully pour the ricotta mixture over the chocolate batter, spreading it evenly over the surface.
  5. Bake the Cake: Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour to 1 hour and 10 minutes. The cake will be done when it is set and slightly jiggly in the center. Remove from oven and allow to cool to room temperature.
  6. Prepare Chocolate Pudding Frosting: In a bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix and cold milk until combined. Let the pudding set for 2 to 3 minutes until it thickens.
  7. Fold in Whipped Topping: Gently fold the thawed whipped topping into the thickened pudding until smooth and creamy.
  8. Frost and Chill: Spread the pudding frosting evenly over the cooled cake layer. Cover the cake and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until ready to serve, allowing the flavors to meld and the frosting to set.

Notes

  • Use room temperature eggs for best mixing and texture.
  • Do not overbake; the slight jiggle in the center ensures a moist cake.
  • Make sure the whipped topping is completely thawed before folding into the pudding.
  • Refrigerate the cake uncovered initially to help the frosting set, then cover tightly to prevent drying out.
  • This cake is best served chilled for optimal flavor and texture.

Keywords: Italian Love Cake, chocolate cake, ricotta cheese cake, creamy chocolate pudding frosting, rich dessert, baked cake recipe