The Best Ricotta Dessert Recipes: Sweet & Creamy Treats to Try

Ricotta cheese isn’t just for savory dishes like lasagna—it’s the secret ingredient in some of the best ricotta dessert recipes! If you’re looking for light, creamy, and easy-to-make ricotta cheese dessert recipes, you’re in the right place. From classic ricotta cake recipes to no-bake cheesecakes and Italian ricotta sweets, we’ve got something for every dessert lover.

Let’s dive into the sweet world of ricotta desserts!

Why Ricotta Cheese is Perfect for Desserts

The Unique Texture & Flavor of Ricotta

Ricotta cheese is known for its light, fluffy, and slightly grainy texture, making it an excellent choice for desserts. Unlike cream cheese, which is dense and tangy, ricotta is:

• Mild & slightly sweet, complementing sugar and fruit-based desserts.
• Lower in fat than heavy cream or mascarpone, offering a lighter alternative.
• Rich in protein, making your desserts a bit healthier.

Ricotta vs. Other Dessert Cheeses

Ricotta strikes the perfect balance between lightness and creaminess, making it ideal for cakes, cannoli fillings, and baked desserts.

Classic Ricotta Cake Recipe

If you’re searching for a moist and delicious ricotta dessert recipe, this classic ricotta cake is a must-try! It’s one of the best ricotta cheese dessert recipes, perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients for a Moist Ricotta Cake

To make a soft and fluffy ricotta cake, you’ll need:

• 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese (full-fat for creaminess)
• 1 cup sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 3 large eggs
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 lemon

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a cake pan.
2. In a bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Stir in ricotta cheese, vanilla extract, and lemon zest.
5. Sift in flour and baking powder, folding gently to avoid overmixing.
6. Pour the batter into the pan and bake for 40-45 minutes until golden brown.
7. Let the cake cool, then dust with powdered sugar before serving.

👉 Serving Tip: Enjoy this cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness!

Lemon Ricotta Cake – A Zesty Twist

If you love citrus flavors, then lemon ricotta cake is a must-try! The combination of zesty lemon and creamy ricotta creates a light, moist, and refreshing dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.

Why Lemon & Ricotta Are a Perfect Match

• Lemon enhances ricotta’s mild sweetness without overpowering it.
• The citrus acidity helps balance the creamy texture.
• It creates a moist and tender crumb that stays fresh longer.

Easy Lemon Ricotta Cake Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 cup ricotta cheese (whole milk)
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• Juice & zest of 1 large lemon
• ½ cup olive oil (or melted butter for richness)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk eggs and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add ricotta cheese, lemon juice, zest, olive oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk flour and baking soda together.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding gently.
6. Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Let the cake cool completely before serving.

Optional Lemon Glaze (For Extra Flavor! 🍋)

To make a simple lemon glaze, mix:

• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

Drizzle over the cooled cake for an extra zingy kick!

👉 Pro Tip: Serve with whipped cream, fresh berries, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for the ultimate treat.

No-Bake Ricotta Cheesecake

If you’re looking for a lighter and easier alternative to traditional cheesecake, this no-bake ricotta cheesecake is the perfect choice! It’s silky smooth, creamy, and refreshing, with no need for an oven.

This easy ricotta cheesecake is light, creamy, and requires no baking!

Why Use Ricotta Instead of Cream Cheese?

• Lower in fat than cream cheese but still rich and creamy.
• Naturally sweet with a mild, milky flavor.
• Lighter texture, making the cheesecake less dense.

Ingredients for a Creamy Ricotta Cheesecake

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 2 cups ricotta cheese (full-fat for the best texture)
• ½ cup honey or granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest (for freshness)
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream (whipped to soft peaks)

For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ⅓ cup melted butter
• 2 tablespoons sugar

Step-by-Step Instructions

1️⃣ Prepare the Crust

1. In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until combined.
2. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan.
3. Chill in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes to set.

2️⃣ Make the Ricotta Filling

4. In a blender or food processor, blend ricotta, sugar (or honey), vanilla, and lemon zest until completely smooth.
5. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
6. Gently fold the whipped cream into the ricotta mixture.

3️⃣ Assemble & Chill

7. Pour the ricotta mixture over the chilled crust, smoothing the top.
8. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight is best for a firm texture).
9. Garnish with fresh berries, a drizzle of honey, or shaved chocolate before serving.

👉 Pro Tip: For a chocolate twist, add ¼ cup melted dark chocolate to the ricotta filling before blending!

Italian Cannoli with Ricotta Filling

One of the most famous Italian ricotta desserts is cannoli—crispy pastry shells filled with a sweet and creamy ricotta mixture. This dessert is a classic Sicilian treat that’s rich, crunchy, and absolutely irresistible!

Crispy cannoli shells filled with sweet ricotta cream—an Italian favorite!

What Makes Cannoli So Delicious?

• The crispy fried shell adds the perfect crunch.
• The ricotta filling is light, smooth, and slightly sweet.
• It can be customized with chocolate chips, citrus zest, pistachios, or candied fruit.

Homemade Cannoli Recipe

Ingredients for the Shells (Or use store-bought shells for convenience!)

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons butter (cold & cubed)
• ½ cup white wine (or water)
• 1 egg yolk (for sealing the edges)
• Oil for frying

If you love crispy pastries filled with creamy ricotta, you’ll also enjoy other light and flaky desserts! Check out these amazing phyllo dough dessert recipes for more sweet inspiration!

Ingredients for the Ricotta Filling

• 1 cup ricotta cheese (drained well)
• ¼ cup powdered sugar
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
• ¼ cup mini chocolate chips
• Zest of 1 orange (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1️⃣ Make the Shells (Skip if using store-bought shells!)

1. In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, and salt.
2. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add white wine (or water) and mix until a dough forms.
4. Wrap in plastic wrap and chill for 30 minutes.
5. Roll out the dough thinly and cut into circles. Wrap around metal cannoli tubes, sealing the edges with egg yolk.
6. Fry in hot oil (375°F) until golden brown. Let cool and remove from tubes.

2️⃣ Make the Ricotta Filling

7. In a bowl, mix ricotta, powdered sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and orange zest until smooth.
8. Stir in mini chocolate chips.

3️⃣ Fill & Serve!

9. Pipe the ricotta mixture into both ends of the cannoli shells.
10. Dust with powdered sugar and serve immediately.

👉 Pro Tip: Dip the ends in crushed pistachios or melted chocolate for extra flavor!

Baked Ricotta Pudding – A Warm & Comforting Dessert

If you love warm, creamy desserts, then baked ricotta pudding is a must-try! This simple yet elegant dish has a soft, custard-like texture and is lightly sweetened with honey and vanilla. It’s perfect for serving warm with fresh fruit or a drizzle of caramel.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ Naturally gluten-free and protein-rich
✔ Simple ingredients, minimal effort
✔ Light, creamy, and satisfying

Ingredients for Baked Ricotta Pudding

• 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese (whole milk for creaminess)
• ¼ cup honey or sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 large egg
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
• Pinch of salt
• ¼ cup milk (for extra smoothness)
• Zest of ½ lemon (optional for freshness)

Optional Toppings

• Sliced almonds or crushed pistachios
• Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries)
• Honey drizzle or caramel sauce

Looking for more fruit-based desserts to enjoy with your baked ricotta pudding? Discover these incredible pear dessert recipes for even more delicious ideas!

Step-by-Step Instructions

1️⃣ Prepare the Mixture

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a small baking dish or ramekins.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk ricotta, honey, vanilla, egg, cinnamon, salt, and milk until smooth.
3. Stir in lemon zest for a subtle citrus flavor.

2️⃣ Bake to Perfection

4. Pour the mixture into greased ramekins or a baking dish.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is lightly golden and set.
6. Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes.

3️⃣ Add Toppings & Serve

7. Drizzle with honey or caramel sauce, then top with fresh fruit and nuts.
8. Serve warm or chilled.

👉 Pro Tip: For an extra indulgent touch, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar!

Ricotta Pancakes – A Breakfast Delight

If you’re looking for a fluffy, protein-packed breakfast, these ricotta pancakes are the perfect choice! They’re light, airy, and slightly creamy, making them softer and richer than regular pancakes.

Why Use Ricotta in Pancakes?

✔ Adds a creamy texture without making them dense
✔ Makes pancakes extra moist and fluffy
✔ Adds protein and nutrients for a healthier breakfast

Ingredients for Ricotta Pancakes

• 1 cup ricotta cheese (full-fat for the best texture)
• ¾ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup milk (whole or almond)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 lemon (optional for freshness)
• 1 tablespoon melted butter (for extra richness)

Optional Toppings

• Maple syrup or honey
• Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries)
• Powdered sugar
• Whipped cream

Step-by-Step Instructions

1️⃣ Prepare the Batter

1. In a large bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt together.
2. In a separate bowl, mix ricotta, eggs, milk, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and melted butter.

2️⃣ Combine Wet & Dry Ingredients

3. Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing gently.
4. Stir just until combined—do not overmix! The batter should be slightly thick.

3️⃣ Cook the Pancakes

5. Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat and grease with butter.
6. Pour ¼ cup of batter onto the pan for each pancake.
7. Cook until bubbles form on top, then flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes.

4️⃣ Serve & Enjoy!

8. Stack the pancakes on a plate and top with your favorite syrup, fruit, or whipped cream.

👉 Pro Tip: Serve with honey and walnuts for an extra Mediterranean-inspired touch!

Ricotta Mousse – A Light & Creamy Dessert

For a quick, no-bake dessert, ricotta mousse is the perfect treat! This silky, airy mousse is made with just a few ingredients and can be flavored in endless ways—from chocolate to citrus to vanilla.

Why You’ll Love This Ricotta Mousse

✔ No baking required – ready in minutes!
✔ Light and creamy texture – not too heavy like traditional mousse.
✔ Customizable – add cocoa, fruit, or spices to change the flavor.

Ingredients for Ricotta Mousse

• 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese (whole milk for creaminess)
• ¼ cup powdered sugar (or honey for natural sweetness)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
• ½ cup heavy cream (whipped to soft peaks)
• 1 tablespoon cocoa powder (optional for chocolate mousse)
• Zest of 1 orange or lemon (optional for citrus flavor)

Optional Toppings

• Fresh berries (raspberries, blueberries, or sliced strawberries)
• Shaved dark chocolate
• Crushed pistachios or almonds
• Drizzle of honey or caramel sauce

Step-by-Step Instructions

1️⃣ Blend the Ricotta Mixture

1. In a food processor or blender, combine ricotta, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon.
2. Blend until completely smooth and creamy (about 1-2 minutes).

2️⃣ Fold in Whipped Cream

3. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
4. Gently fold the whipped cream into the ricotta mixture until fully combined.
5. If making chocolate mousse, sift in cocoa powder and mix gently.

3️⃣ Chill & Serve

6. Spoon the mousse into serving glasses or bowls.
7. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to enhance the flavor.
8. Top with fresh fruit, chocolate shavings, or nuts, then serve chilled.

👉 Pro Tip: For a decadent twist, drizzle with espresso or Kahlua before serving!

Ricotta & Honey Tart – A Perfectly Balanced Dessert

A ricotta and honey tart is the perfect blend of creamy, sweet, and slightly tangy flavors. With a buttery crust and smooth ricotta filling, this dessert is both simple and elegant—ideal for special occasions or a weekend treat.

This ricotta and honey tart is creamy, sweet, and perfectly balanced.

Why You’ll Love This Tart

✔ Rich yet light – not as heavy as traditional cheesecake.
✔ Naturally sweetened – honey adds a delicate floral flavor.
✔ Simple ingredients, gourmet taste – easy to make but looks impressive!

Ingredients for Ricotta & Honey Tart

For the Tart Crust

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup unsalted butter (cold & cubed)
• ¼ cup powdered sugar
• 1 egg yolk
• 1 tablespoon cold water

For the Ricotta Filling

• 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese (whole milk)
• ¼ cup honey
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 egg + 1 egg yolk
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)

Optional Toppings

• Drizzle of extra honey
• Toasted almonds or pistachios
• Fresh figs, berries, or poached pears

Step-by-Step Instructions

1️⃣ Prepare the Tart Crust

1. In a bowl, mix flour and powdered sugar.
2. Add cold butter and cut it in with a pastry cutter (or use a food processor) until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add the egg yolk and cold water, mixing until a dough forms.
4. Wrap in plastic wrap and chill for 30 minutes.
5. Roll out the dough and press into a tart pan. Prick the bottom with a fork.
6. Pre-bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes until lightly golden.

2️⃣ Make the Ricotta Filling

7. In a bowl, whisk together ricotta, honey, vanilla, lemon zest, eggs, and cinnamon until smooth.
8. Pour the mixture into the pre-baked tart shell.

3️⃣ Bake & Serve

9. Bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes, until the filling is just set.
10. Let cool completely before drizzling with extra honey and adding toppings.
11. Slice and serve at room temperature or chilled.

👉 Pro Tip: This tart pairs beautifully with a cup of espresso or a glass of dessert wine!

FAQs About Ricotta Dessert Recipes

What can I make with ricotta cheese besides lasagna?

Besides lasagna, ricotta is great for cakes, cheesecakes, cannoli, pancakes, tarts, and mousse. It also works well in savory dips, stuffed pasta, and toast toppings.

What can I do with leftover ricotta?

Use leftover ricotta in desserts, smoothies, or breakfast recipes like ricotta pancakes or toast. It can also be blended with honey and fruit for a quick dip.

Can I make cheesecake with ricotta cheese?

Yes! Ricotta cheesecake is lighter than traditional cheesecake but still creamy and delicious. A no-bake version is also an easy and quick alternative.

What can I do with baked ricotta?

Baked ricotta can be eaten warm with honey and fruit, or used as a filling for pastries and tarts. You can also add herbs and garlic for a savory version.

Conclusion

Ricotta cheese is a fantastic ingredient for desserts, offering a creamy, light texture that pairs well with sweet flavors. From classic ricotta cakes to Italian cannoli, no-bake cheesecakes, and fluffy pancakes, the possibilities are endless!

Which ricotta dessert will you try first? Let us know in the comments!

Creamy Ricotta Honey Mousse

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This Creamy Ricotta Honey Mousse is a light, airy, and elegant dessert that comes together in minutes. Sweetened with honey and infused with vanilla, this no-bake treat is perfect for when you want something sweet but not too heavy. Serve it with fresh berries, crushed nuts, or a drizzle of chocolate for an extra indulgence!

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 individual mousse cups 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 3 tbsp honey (or maple syrup)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ tsp lemon zest (optional, for brightness)
• ¼ tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
• Pinch of salt

For Garnishing:

• Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries)
• Chopped nuts (pistachios, almonds, or walnuts)
• Dark chocolate shavings (optional)
• Extra drizzle of honey

Instructions

• In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, honey, vanilla extract, lemon zest, cinnamon, and salt.
• Using a hand mixer or a whisk, beat the mixture until smooth and fluffy.
• In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
• Gently fold the whipped cream into the ricotta mixture until well combined.
• Spoon the mousse into serving glasses or bowls.
• Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
• Before serving, top with fresh berries, chopped nuts, and a drizzle of honey or chocolate shavings.
• Enjoy immediately!

Notes

• For extra flavor, try adding orange zest or a splash of almond extract.
• If you prefer a sweeter mousse, increase the honey or maple syrup slightly.
• This dessert can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator.

• Author: Lilly
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Calories: ~180 kcal
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Protein: 6g