Creamy Chocolate Chip Ricotta Cheese Pie (Old Fashioned Italian Recipe)

Craving a sweet treat with a touch of Italian flair? Look no further than this decadent Ricotta Cheese Pie with Chocolate Chips. This classic dessert, beloved for its creamy texture and rich chocolate flavor, is a perfect way to indulge your sweet tooth. it's surprisingly easy to make. First, a flaky crust is made with simple pantry ingredients. It’s then filled with a luscious mixture of ricotta cheese, sugar, and chocolate chips. The ricotta cheese provides a creamy and tangy base, while the sugar adds sweetness and the chocolate chips offer a rich, indulgent flavor. To top the pie, a lattice is made with strips of dough. The pie is then baked until golden brown and the filling is set. With its flaky crust and luscious filling, this pie is sure to impress your friends and family.

What is Ricotta Cheese Pie with Chocolate Chips?

Ricotta Cheese Pie with Chocolate Chips is a classic Italian dessert that combines the creamy texture of ricotta cheese with the rich flavor of chocolate. It's typically served as a dessert course and features a flaky crust filled with a luscious mixture of ricotta cheese, sugar, and chocolate chips. The pie is often topped with a lattice crust or strips of dough.

The pie likely emerged from the rich culinary traditions of Italy. Ricotta cheese, a byproduct of cheesemaking, has been a staple in Italian cuisine for centuries. The combination of ricotta with sweet ingredients like sugar and chocolate is a natural pairing that has resulted in numerous delicious desserts.

While the basic recipe remains consistent, there are regional variations in the preparation and ingredients used. Many people enjoy adding their own personal touches to the pie, such as using different types of chocolate or incorporating other ingredients like nuts or dried fruit. Ricotta Cheese Pie with Chocolate Chips pairs well with a cup of coffee or a glass of wine.

Tips

• For the best flavor and texture, opt for fresh ricotta cheese. Avoid using ricotta that's been drained or packaged in tubs.
• Before rolling out the dough, chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This will make it easier to handle and prevent it from sticking to the work surface.
• Gently combine the ricotta cheese, sugar, and chocolate chips to avoid over mixing. Over mixing can result in a grainy texture.
• Watch the pie closely as it bakes. Over baking can lead to a dry and crumbly crust.
• Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing and serving. This will help the flavors develop and prevent the filling from becoming runny.
• For an extra indulgent treat, serve the pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Experiment with fillings. While the classic combination of ricotta cheese, sugar, and chocolate chips is delicious, you can also experiment with different fillings. Try adding chopped nuts, dried fruit, or a splash of orange zest for a unique twist.
• This pie can be made a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese Instead of Ricotta?

While ricotta is the traditional choice, you can experiment with other creamy cheeses like mascarpone or cottage cheese.

Do I Need to Drain the Ricotta?

Yes, it's best to drain the ricotta before using it in the filling to avoid excess moisture, which can make the pie crust soggy. To do this, place the ricotta in a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth and let it sit for 30 minutes to an hour to remove any extra liquid. This ensures a creamier, thicker consistency for the filling.

What Kind of Chocolate Chips Should I Use?

Semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips are common choices, but you can also use dark chocolate for a richer flavor.

How Long Does It Take to Make This Pie?

The preparation time can vary depending on your experience level, but it generally takes around 1-2 hours.

What Is the Best Way To Serve This Pie?

Ricotta Cheese Pie with Chocolate Chips is often served chilled with a scoop of ice cream or whipped cream.

Can I Make This Pie Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can make this pie a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

Can I Add Other Ingredients to The Filling?

Yes, you can add other ingredients like nuts, dried fruit, or citrus zest for a flavor twist.

Can I Freeze This Ricotta Pie?

Yes, this pie can be frozen, but it’s best to freeze it after baking and cooling completely. Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you're ready to serve, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it in the oven for a few minutes to restore the crust's crispness. Avoid freezing the raw dough or filling separately, as the texture may change after thawing.

More Ricotta Desserts You Need to Try!

Magic Ricotta Cake

Italian Lemon Ricotta Cake

Chocolate Chip Ricotta Cake

Strawberry Ricotta Cake

How to Store Ricotta Cheese Pie

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a few days.

How To Make Ricotta Cheese Pie with Chocolate Chips

In a mixing bowl, combine flour, eggs, vegetable oil, sugar, baking powder, and vanilla sugar.

Mix with a spatula until a dough forms. Knead with your hands until smooth.

Divide the dough into two parts. Roll out one part on parchment paper.

Cut it into a circle using a pizza cutter.

Transfer the circle to a 28cm (11 inch) baking mold.

In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese, sugar, and chocolate chips. Mix until well combined.

Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust.

Roll out the remaining dough and cut it into strips.

Arrange the strips on top of the filling, creating a lattice pattern.

Trim any excess and seal the edges.

Brush the crust with milk and sprinkle the edges with sugar grains.

Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (360°F) for 35 minutes, or until golden brown.

Let the pie cool slightly before slicing and serving.