Description
Italian Love Cake is a decadent dessert featuring layers of moist chocolate cake, creamy ricotta filling, and a luscious chocolate pudding topping. It’s a delightful treat that’s perfect for special occasions or anytime you’re craving a sweet indulgence.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chocolate Cake Layer:
- 1 box chocolate cake mix (plus eggs, oil, and water as called for on the box)
For the Ricotta Filling:
- 2 pounds ricotta cheese
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup granulated sugar
For the Chocolate Pudding Topping:
- 1 (3.9 oz) box instant chocolate pudding mix
- 1 cup cold milk
- 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
- Chocolate shavings or mini chocolate chips for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chocolate Cake Layer: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Prepare the chocolate cake batter according to the package instructions and pour it into the prepared pan.
- Make the Ricotta Filling: In a separate bowl, beat together ricotta cheese, eggs, vanilla, and granulated sugar until smooth. Gently spoon the ricotta mixture over the cake batter and spread evenly—do not mix them together.
- Bake the Cake: Bake for 55–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean. Let the cake cool completely.
- Prepare the Chocolate Pudding Topping: In a medium bowl, whisk together the pudding mix and cold milk for 2 minutes. Fold in the whipped topping until smooth. Spread the chocolate pudding mixture over the cooled cake.
- Garnish and Chill: Garnish with chocolate shavings or mini chocolate chips if desired. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving to allow the layers to set.
Notes
- This cake is best made a day ahead for the best flavor and texture.
- You can also use white or vanilla cake mix for a different flavor variation.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 31g
- Sodium: 390mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
