I’ve got a cake recipe that might just change your dessert game forever. Imagine the perfect balance of creamy ricotta cheese and sweet chocolate chips coming together in a moist, tender cake that practically melts in your mouth. It’s not fussy or complicated—just pure, simple indulgence that works for breakfast, afternoon tea, or dessert. The best part? You probably have most of the ingredients in your kitchen right now. Ready to discover why this Italian-inspired treat has become my go-to recommendation for absolutely any occasion?
Why You’ll Love this Chocolate Chip Ricotta Cake
If you’re searching for a cake that’s both simple to make and absolutely divine to eat, this chocolate chip ricotta cake is about to become your new best friend. The ricotta cheese creates a moist, tender crumb that stays fresh for days—not that it’ll last that long in your kitchen.
I’m obsessed with how the mini chocolate chips distribute perfectly throughout the batter, giving you a bit of melty chocolate in every bite. And can we talk about that subtle tangy flavor from the ricotta? It balances the sweetness beautifully, making this cake perfect for breakfast, dessert, or anytime snacking.
What Ingredients are in Chocolate Chip Ricotta Cake?
This delightful cake requires simple ingredients you might already have in your pantry and refrigerator.
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ¼ cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 15 oz whole milk ricotta
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¾ cup mini chocolate chips (tossed in 1 tbsp flour)
- Powdered sugar for dusting
For the best results, make sure your ricotta and butter are at room temperature before mixing, and don’t skip tossing the chocolate chips in flour—this little trick prevents them from sinking to the bottom during baking.
How to Make this Chocolate Chip Ricotta Cake
Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a springform pan generously. This prevents the cake from sticking and makes for an easy release after baking. For best results, use a quality springform pan set designed specifically for cheesecakes and similar desserts.
Step 2: Cream Together the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, beat ½ cup of softened unsalted butter, 1 ¼ cups granulated sugar, and 15 oz whole milk ricotta until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
This creates the rich, moist foundation of our cake.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add 2 large eggs and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract to the ricotta mixture, beating until well combined.
The eggs provide structure while the vanilla adds that warm, aromatic flavor we all love.
Step 4: Mix in the Dry Ingredients
Gently mix in 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and ½ teaspoon salt until just combined.
Overmixing can make your cake tough, so easy does it here.
Step 5: Toss and Fold in Chocolate Chips
Toss ¾ cup mini chocolate chips with 1 tablespoon of flour to coat them completely.
This clever trick prevents the chips from sinking to the bottom during baking, ensuring chocolate in every bite.
Step 6: Transfer to Baking Pan
Pour the batter into your prepared springform pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
The batter will be thick and luscious, almost like a very rich muffin batter.
Step 7: Bake Until Golden
Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
The top should be golden brown and slightly cracked—those little imperfections are what make homemade cakes so charming.
Step 8: Cool and Dust with Powdered Sugar
Allow the cake to cool completely before removing it from the pan.
Just before serving, dust the top with powdered sugar for that classic, elegant finish that makes everyone want to grab a fork immediately.
What to Serve with Chocolate Chip Ricotta Cake
This rich, moist cake works beautifully for dessert, brunch, or even a midday coffee break.
For a classic pairing, serve with fresh berries—strawberries or raspberries add a bright, tart contrast to the sweet cake. A dollop of lightly whipped cream or vanilla bean ice cream melting slightly over a warm slice? Absolute heaven.
For drinks, try an espresso or cappuccino to cut through the richness, or a glass of dessert wine like Moscato d’Asti if you’re feeling fancy.
Feeling extra indulgent? Drizzle some warm chocolate sauce over the top and watch it sink into all those little crevices.
And don’t forget, a simple glass of cold milk makes this comfort food complete.
Chocolate Chip Ricotta Cake Substitutions and Variations
- Dairy-Free: Use plant-based butter and dairy-free ricotta alternative (cashew-based works well).
- Topping Ideas: Instead of powdered sugar, try a simple lemon glaze, honey drizzle, or a dollop of fruit compote.
- Sugar Adjustments: Reduce sugar to 1 cup or substitute with ¾ cup honey (reduce other liquids slightly).
Leftovers and Storage for this Chocolate Chip Ricotta Cake
This ricotta cake keeps beautifully for several days. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
The cake actually develops deeper flavors overnight as the chocolate chips and ricotta meld together—making day-two slices something to look forward to!
For longer storage, this cake freezes wonderfully. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 3 months.
When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature for about an hour.
To refresh refrigerated slices, let them come to room temperature before serving, or warm gently in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. A fresh dusting of powdered sugar works wonders to revive that “just-baked” look.
Final Thoughts
This Chocolate Chip Ricotta Cake represents everything wonderful about simple, rustic baking—the moist, tender crumb from whole milk ricotta paired with pockets of melted chocolate creates something truly special.
It’s an effortless dessert perfect for Sunday family gatherings or when unexpected guests drop by, requiring minimal prep but delivering maximum comfort.
The balance of creamy ricotta and chocolate makes it substantial enough for breakfast with coffee yet refined enough for dessert after dinner.
In a world of complicated recipes, this cake reminds us that sometimes the most memorable treats come from the simplest ingredients combined with care.