Peach Ricotta Cake is a classic Italian-inspired treat that combines the delicate creaminess of ricotta cheese with the juicy sweetness of fresh peaches. Perfect for summer and early fall, this cake is easy to make, boasts a moist texture, and delivers bright, natural flavors that satisfy any dessert lover’s cravings.
Why You’ll Love This Peach Ricotta Cake
This cake is wonderfully moist and tender thanks to ricotta cheese in the batter. The fresh peaches add bursts of juicy sweetness and a beautiful natural color. Whether making it for a family gathering, afternoon tea, or just a special snack, it’s a versatile and impressive dessert. Plus, it uses simple ingredients and a straightforward method—no complicated techniques needed.
Ingredients for Peach Ricotta Cake
- 1 ¼ cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened (one and a half sticks)
- 15 ounces whole milk ricotta cheese, well-drained
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (210 grams)
- 1 cup peeled and diced fresh peaches (pat dry)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (to toss peaches)
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Pro Tip: If fresh peaches aren’t in season, frozen peaches work perfectly when thawed and patted dry.
How to Make Peach Ricotta Cake
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Mix Wet Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan with butter or nonstick spray, and line the bottom with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy. Then add the ricotta cheese and mix at medium speed for 4-5 minutes until light and fluffy.
Step 2: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract for extra aroma and flavor.
Step 3: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the baking soda, salt, and flour. Slowly add this dry mixture into the wet batter on low speed, mixing until just combined. Use a rubber spatula to scrape down the sides and ensure everything is evenly mixed.
Step 4: Add the Peaches
Toss the diced peaches with 2 tablespoons of flour to prevent them from sinking in the batter. Gently fold the peaches into the cake batter using a spatula.
Step 5: Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Optionally, place a few extra peach slices on top for an attractive finish.
Bake in the center rack of the oven for about 65-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the cake turns golden brown.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Let the cake cool in the pan for 15-20 minutes before removing the springform ring. Dust with powdered sugar if desired. Serve on its own or with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent touch.
Tips for the Best Peach Ricotta Cake
- Use well-drained ricotta to avoid watery batter.
- Ensure fresh peaches are ripe but firm for best texture.
- Avoid overmixing the flour into the batter to keep the cake light.
- Allow the cake to cool thoroughly to set properly before slicing.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: Approximately 330 kcal
- Protein: 7g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I substitute peaches with other fruits?
A: Yes, stone fruits like nectarines or berries like cherries work wonderfully.
Q: Can I use ricotta cheese straight from the container?
A: It’s best to drain excess moisture from ricotta to avoid a soggy cake.
Q: How should I store leftover cake?
A: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days or refrigerate for up to 4 days.
Q: Can I freeze this cake?
A: Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Q: Is this cake gluten-free?
A: No, it uses all-purpose flour, but a gluten-free flour blend can be experimented with.
Conclusion
Peach Ricotta Cake is a delightful, moist, and flavorful dessert that perfectly captures the essence of summer and early fall with its fresh peaches and creamy ricotta base. This easy-to-make cake offers a tender crumb and balanced sweetness, making it a favorite for gatherings, snacks, or a special treat. Its simple ingredients and step-by-step process make it accessible for bakers of all levels, while delivering impressive, restaurant-quality results.
By following this recipe, you can enjoy a luscious homemade cake that celebrates seasonal flavors, with the added benefits of being adaptable to pantry staples like frozen peaches. Paired with its SEO-optimized, user-friendly format, this recipe is designed to provide all the answers, tips, and guidance dessert lovers and home bakers need.
Give this Peach Ricotta Cake a try, and enjoy a slice of seasonal comfort that’s sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection!
