Description
Italian Love Cake is a rich and creamy dessert combining a moist chocolate cake base with a luscious ricotta layer, topped with a smooth chocolate pudding whipped topping. This indulgent cake offers a blend of textures and flavors perfect for any special occasion or family gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
Cake Ingredients
- 1 box chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients called for on the box)
Ricotta Layer
- 2 pounds ricotta cheese
- 4 large eggs
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Topping
- 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping, thawed
- 1 (3.4 oz) box instant chocolate pudding mix
- 1 cup cold milk
Instructions
- Prepare Cake Batter: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Prepare the chocolate cake batter according to the instructions on the box. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Make Ricotta Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, eggs, sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Carefully spoon the ricotta mixture over the chocolate cake batter, spreading it evenly to cover the surface.
- Bake the Cake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake; it should come out clean. Once baked, remove from oven and let the cake cool completely at room temperature.
- Prepare Frosting: In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix and cold milk until the mixture thickens. Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until smooth and well combined.
- Assemble and Chill: Spread the prepared frosting evenly over the cooled cake. Cover the cake and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld and the topping to set before serving.
Notes
- Be sure to fully cool the cake before frosting to prevent the whipped topping from melting.
- You can substitute the chocolate pudding mix with vanilla pudding mix for a different flavor profile.
- For an extra chocolatey touch, sprinkle chocolate shavings on top before chilling.
- This cake tastes best when chilled overnight, allowing flavors to deepen.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
