Easter Sweet Ricotta Pie (Printable Version)

Classic Italian dessert with creamy ricotta filling and fresh lemon zest in a tender crust, ideal for spring.

# The Ingredients You'll Need:

→ Pastry

01 - 2 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
03 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
04 - 1 large egg
05 - 1 large egg yolk
06 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
07 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
08 - 2 to 3 tablespoons cold water

→ Ricotta Filling

09 - 2 cups whole milk ricotta cheese, well drained
10 - 3/4 cup granulated sugar
11 - 3 large eggs
12 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
13 - Zest of 2 lemons
14 - 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
15 - 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
16 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
17 - 1/4 cup heavy cream

→ Finishing

18 - Powdered sugar for dusting

# Step-by-Step Instructions:

01 - In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add cold butter cubes and rub between fingertips until mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
02 - Mix in the whole egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract. Add cold water one tablespoon at a time while mixing until dough just comes together.
03 - Shape dough into a disk, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
04 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9-inch pie or tart pan with butter or non-stick spray.
05 - On a lightly floured surface, roll out dough to 1/8-inch thickness. Gently transfer to prepared pan, pressing into bottom and up sides. Trim excess edges and prick base with a fork. Chill for 10 minutes.
06 - In a large bowl, whisk together drained ricotta, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, lemon zest, lemon juice, flour, salt, and heavy cream until smooth and well combined.
07 - Pour ricotta filling into prepared pastry shell and smooth the surface with a spatula.
08 - Bake for 55 to 60 minutes until filling is set and lightly golden. The center should have a slight wobble when gently shaken.
09 - Cool completely on a wire rack at room temperature. Transfer to refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours before slicing.
10 - Dust generously with powdered sugar just before serving.

# Additional Tips::

01 -
  • The filling is luxuriously creamy yet light, with a refreshing citrus brightness from lemon zest and juice.
  • The homemade pastry crust is tender and flaky, providing the perfect complement to the smooth ricotta.
  • It's a traditional Italian dessert that feels special and festive, ideal for Easter or any spring celebration.
  • This pie can be made ahead and chilled, making it a convenient choice for entertaining.
  • The combination of simple, wholesome ingredients creates an elegant dessert that's sure to impress.
02 -
  • Always chill the pastry dough before rolling to make it easier to handle and to achieve a tender crust.
  • Drain the ricotta thoroughly to prevent a soggy filling—this is the key to a perfectly set pie.
  • Don't overbake: the filling should have a slight wobble in the center when you remove it from the oven, as it will continue to set as it cools.
  • For the cleanest slices, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between cuts.
  • Make this pie a day ahead to allow the flavors to meld and the filling to firm up completely.
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