Migliaccio – Italian Ricotta and Semolina Cake
Migliaccio is a traditional Italian dessert that combines the creamy texture of ricotta with the richness of semolina, making for a delicately sweet and satisfying cake. This classic dish hails from Naples and is often served during the Carnival season, though it’s perfect for any occasion that calls for a simple yet indulgent dessert. Here’s how you can recreate this beloved dessert in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Semolina | 200g |
| Milk | 500g |
| Sugar | 250g |
| Water | 500g |
| Ricotta cheese (cow’s milk) | 350g |
| Eggs | 220g |
| Butter | 40g |
| Orange peel | 1 |
| Vanilla bean | 1 |
| Salt | A pinch |
| Powdered sugar | To taste |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~300 kcal |
| Protein | ~8g |
| Carbohydrates | ~35g |
| Fat | ~15g |
| Fiber | ~1g |
| Sugars | ~20g |
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on ingredient brands and measurements.
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Semolina
To begin preparing your migliaccio, take a medium saucepan and combine the milk, water, and a pinch of salt. Add in the butter, allowing it to melt as the mixture heats up. Don’t forget to include the orange peel to infuse the mixture with its refreshing citrus fragrance. Stir occasionally to prevent the butter from sticking to the pan.
Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Once it starts bubbling, remove the orange peel, and lower the heat. Gradually add in the semolina while stirring constantly to avoid any lumps. Continue to cook this mixture for 4-5 minutes, or until it thickens to a creamy consistency.
Step 2: Cool the Semolina Mixture
Once the semolina has thickened, transfer the mixture to a large mixing bowl to allow it to cool. Stir occasionally to prevent a skin from forming on top.
Step 3: Prepare the Ricotta Mixture
While the semolina cools, cut open the vanilla bean and scrape out the seeds using the tip of a knife. In a separate large bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, and the vanilla seeds until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and pale in color.
Add the ricotta cheese into this mixture, stirring until the ricotta is fully incorporated and the batter is smooth. You can use an electric mixer for best results, but a whisk and a little elbow grease will work just fine.
Step 4: Combine the Mixtures
Once the semolina mixture has cooled to a lukewarm temperature, gently fold it into the ricotta and egg mixture. Ensure that the ingredients are fully combined and the batter is smooth and lump-free.
Step 5: Prepare the Pan and Bake
Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F) in static mode. Grease a 24 cm (9.5-inch) round cake pan with butter and line it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal after baking. Pour the prepared batter into the pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Step 6: Bake the Migliaccio
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 60 minutes. After 40-50 minutes, check the surface of the cake; if it is golden brown, cover it loosely with aluminum foil and continue baking until fully cooked. The cake is done when it is firm to the touch and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once your migliaccio is done baking, allow it to cool to room temperature before removing it from the pan. To finish, dust the top with powdered sugar for a sweet, festive touch. Slice and serve your delicious ricotta and semolina cake as a dessert for family and friends to enjoy.
Tips for the Perfect Migliaccio
- Ricotta Quality: The richness of migliaccio comes from the quality of the ricotta. Opt for fresh, whole-milk ricotta for the creamiest results.
- Customizing Flavors: For an extra touch of flavor, you can experiment with adding a little cinnamon or a splash of liqueur, such as rum or limoncello, to the batter.
- Cooling Time: Allowing the cake to cool fully will help set the flavors, making the migliaccio even more delicious the next day.
This Italian ricotta and semolina cake is sure to be a hit at any gathering. Its delicate flavor, paired with a smooth texture and subtle sweetness, offers a taste of authentic Italian tradition in every bite. Enjoy your migliaccio with a hot cup of espresso or as a satisfying dessert to end a beautiful meal.
