Ricotta Cold Cake with Peaches and Red Currants
This delicious and refreshing Torta Fredda di Ricotta is the perfect summer dessert that combines the smooth, creamy texture of ricotta cheese with the vibrant sweetness of peaches and the tartness of red currants. The base is made with a crispy, chocolatey puffed rice layer that balances the creaminess of the ricotta filling. This no-bake cake is simple to prepare, making it ideal for warm weather gatherings or a special family treat.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Puffed rice | 50g |
| Dark chocolate | 50g |
| Ricotta cheese (cowโs milk) | 400g |
| Icing sugar | 50g |
| Vanilla bean | 1 |
| Donut peaches | 280g |
| Red currants | 10g |
| Fresh mint leaves | 3 |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Energy | 240 kcal |
| Protein | 6g |
| Fat | 12g |
| Saturated fat | 5g |
| Carbohydrates | 31g |
| Sugars | 20g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 50mg |
Instructions
Prepare the Base:
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Melt the Chocolate: Begin by chopping the dark chocolate into small pieces using a sharp knife. Place it into a microwave-safe bowl and melt it in the microwave on high for 20-30 seconds. Stir the chocolate well after each interval to ensure that it melts evenly. Repeat this process until the chocolate is fully melted. If you don’t have a microwave, you can melt the chocolate using a double boiler method.
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Heat the Puffed Rice: To prevent a thermal shock when mixing the puffed rice and chocolate, heat the puffed rice in the microwave for about 30 seconds, or until slightly warm. This ensures it integrates smoothly with the melted chocolate.
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Combine Chocolate and Rice: Once both the chocolate and puffed rice are ready, add the warm puffed rice into the bowl with melted chocolate. Stir the mixture until it is fully combined, ensuring the puffed rice is evenly coated with the chocolate.
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Press the Base: Take a rectangular tart pan (35×11 cm, preferably with a removable bottom) and transfer the chocolate-puffed rice mixture into it. Use the back of a spoon to press it down evenly, compacting the mixture to form a solid base. Once the base is evenly spread, place it in the refrigerator to chill for about 1 hour to firm up.
Prepare the Ricotta Cream:
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Strain the Ricotta: After the base has set in the fridge, focus on preparing the creamy ricotta filling. Start by straining the ricotta through a fine mesh sieve to remove excess moisture and make it smoother. This step ensures the cream will be silky and light.
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Add Sugar and Vanilla: To the strained ricotta, add the icing sugar and the seeds scraped from the vanilla pod. Stir well with a spatula until the mixture is smooth and evenly incorporated. The natural sweetness of the ricotta, combined with the richness of the vanilla, creates a fragrant, creamy filling.
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Fill the Cake: With the base set and the ricotta cream ready, take the tart pan from the fridge. Spread half of the ricotta mixture evenly over the base using the back of a spoon, making sure to cover the entire surface.
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Create the Decorative Top: Transfer the remaining ricotta cream into a piping bag fitted with a round tip. Pipe the cream onto the center of the cake in a wavy pattern, adding texture and a decorative touch.
Assemble the Topping:
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Prepare the Peaches: Wash the donut peaches thoroughly, then slice them thinly while keeping the skin on. The skin adds a pleasant texture and color to the final presentation. Arrange the peach slices on both sides of the cake, fanning them out to cover the surface.
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Add Red Currants and Mint: For a burst of color and flavor, scatter small bunches of red currants over the peaches. Finally, place a few fresh mint leaves for a touch of freshness and fragrance.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Your Torta Fredda di Ricotta is now ready to be served! Allow it to chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 more hours to ensure itโs firm and refreshing. Once chilled, slice it into generous portions, and enjoy the creamy, fruity, and chocolatey goodness with your family and friends. Perfect for any occasion, this dessert will be a hit!
This no-bake ricotta cake offers the perfect blend of textures and flavors, making it a unique treat for summer. The combination of smooth ricotta, fresh fruit, and a crunchy chocolatey base will delight everyone who tries it. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a quiet afternoon, this dessert is sure to impress!
