- Almonds, Sliced or Finely Ground: 1/2 cup (70g) for topping
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Steps
## Almond Ricotta Cake Recipe: A Flavorful Dessert for Your Sweet Tooth
### Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cups granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- Pinch of salt
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup blanched almond meal (ground almonds)
- 2 tablespoons milk, divided
- 16 ounces ricotta cheese, room temperature
- 3/4 cups powdered sugar
### Equipment:
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or stand mixer
- 9-inch springform pan
- Cooling rack
### Detailed Steps:
#### Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Preheat Oven
1. **Preheat your oven** to 350°F (175°C).
2. **Grease a 9-inch springform pan** with butter or non-stick spray, then line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.
#### Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
1. In a large mixing bowl, **whisk together 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 cup blanched almond meal**.
2. Add in **1 3/4 teaspoons baking powder** and a **pinch of salt**, then mix well to combine.
#### Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
1. In a separate bowl, use an electric mixer or stand mixer with the paddle attachment to **cream together 1 cup softened butter and 3/4 cups sugar** until light and fluffy.
2. Beat in **1 large egg**, ensuring it is well incorporated before adding next ingredients.
#### Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
1. Add **1 teaspoon vanilla extract** to the mixture, continuing to beat on low speed for about a minute.
2. Gradually mix in **1/2 cup of the flour-almond meal blend** and then continue alternating with **the remaining milk**, starting and ending with the dry ingredients.
#### Step 5: Fold in Ricotta Cheese
1. Gently fold in **8 ounces ricotta cheese** until just combined.
2. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a tough cake texture.
#### Step 6: Bake the Cake
1. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
2. Bake for **30-35 minutes**, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
3. Remove from oven and let it cool on a wire rack before removing from the pan.
#### Step 7: Prepare the Powdered Sugar Topping
1. While the cake is cooling, whisk together **3/4 cups powdered sugar** and a small amount of milk (about 2 tablespoons) to create a smooth glaze.
2. If too thick, add more milk; if too thin, add more sugar.
#### Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
1. Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the powdered sugar glaze over the top.
2. Let it set for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
### Tips for Success:
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature to achieve the best texture.
- For an extra almond flavor, sprinkle some finely ground almonds on top of the cake before baking.
### Conclusion
Making an Almond Ricotta Cake is a delightful process that combines the richness of butter and ricotta with the subtle nuttiness of almonds. Perfect for any occasion, this cake is sure to impress your guests. Enjoy this recipe by incorporating it into your dessert menu or treat yourself with a slice straight from the oven!