Description
A classic Sicilian Ricotta Pie featuring a creamy ricotta filling flavored with cinnamon, vanilla, and fresh orange zest, baked in a tender pie crust. This traditional Italian dessert is rich yet light, perfect for holidays or an elegant after-dinner treat.
Ingredients
2 cups ricotta cheese, drained
3/4 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 tablespoon orange zest, freshly grated
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust
Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained ricotta cheese and granulated sugar. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition until the mixture becomes light and well blended.
- Stir in the vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and freshly grated orange zest.
- Add the flour and salt and mix gently until the batter is smooth and fully incorporated.
- Pour the ricotta filling into the unbaked 9-inch pie crust and spread it evenly with a spatula.
- Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, until the center is set and the top is lightly golden.
- Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool completely at room temperature so the filling can set.
- Before serving, lightly dust the top with powdered sugar if desired.
Notes
Drain ricotta well before using to prevent a watery filling.
Add mini chocolate chips or chopped candied orange peel for a sweeter variation.
A small amount of lemon zest can be added with the orange zest for a brighter flavor.
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.
Serve chilled, at room temperature, or warm slices gently in a low oven.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Bake
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 220 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 32 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 11 g
- Cholesterol: 115 mg
