Description
This Italian Ricotta Pie is a creamy and delicate dessert featuring a smooth ricotta cheese filling with hints of vanilla and cinnamon, all encased in a flaky pie crust. Perfect for a comforting treat or festive occasion, it bakes to a custard-like texture with a slightly jiggly center and is chilled before serving for an ideal slice.
Ingredients
Scale
Filling
- 1 1/4 cups milk
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Crust
- 1 prepared 9-inch pie crust
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare crust: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Place the prepared pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish and crimp the edges to shape and secure the crust.
- Mix cornstarch and milk: In a large mixing bowl, combine half of the milk with the cornstarch and whisk thoroughly until smooth and no lumps remain. This step helps thicken the filling during baking.
- Add remaining ingredients: Pour in the remaining milk, then add the ricotta cheese, eggs, vanilla extract, granulated sugar, and cinnamon into the bowl. Mix all ingredients well until fully combined to form a smooth batter.
- Fill pie and bake: Pour the ricotta mixture into the prepared pie crust evenly. Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 55 to 65 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggles when gently shaken.
- Cool and chill: Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate the pie for at least 1 hour to firm up before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Ensure the ricotta cheese is well-drained for best texture and to avoid excess moisture in the filling.
- Avoid overbaking; the center should have a slight jiggle as it will firm up while chilling.
- This pie can be served plain or dusted with powdered sugar for extra sweetness.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- You can substitute vanilla extract with anise extract for a traditional Italian flavor twist.
