Italian Love Cake
350kcal
Ingredients
Ricotta Layer
- 2 cups 2 (15-ounce) containers of ricotta cheese
- 1 cup 1 cup of granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 4 large 4 large eggs (room temperature)
Chocolate Cake Layer
- 1 box 1 (15.25 ounce) box of chocolate or devil’s food cake mix
- 1/2 cup 1/2 cup canola or vegetable oil
- 1 cup 1 cup of water
- 3 large 3 large eggs
Chocolate Pudding Layer
- 1 box 1 (5-ounce) box of instant chocolate pudding
- 3 cups 3 cups of cold milk
Topping
- 1 container 1 (8-ounce) container of whipped topping, thawed
Method
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Set it aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and 4 large eggs. Mix until well blended and creamy.
- In a separate bowl, prepare the cake mix according to the package directions; mix in the canola oil and water, and then add the 3 large eggs until fully combined.
Baking
- Pour half of the chocolate cake batter into the prepared baking dish, followed by the ricotta mixture, spreading evenly. Top with the remaining chocolate cake batter.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
Pudding Layer
- While the cake cools, prepare the chocolate pudding layer. In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding and 3 cups of cold milk until smooth and slightly thickened.
- Once the cake has cooled, spread the chocolate pudding mixture evenly over the top.
Topping
- Finish by topping with the whipped topping, spreading it gently for an even layer. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
Nutrition
Serving1gCalories350kcalCarbohydrates40gProtein5gFat18gSaturated Fat7gSodium220mgFiber1gSugar25g
Notes
Ingredient substitutions: You can use low-fat ricotta for a lighter version or substitute the chocolate cake mix with yellow cake mix for a different flavor profile. Optional variations: Add chocolate chips to the ricotta layer for extra chocolate goodness or sprinkle graham cracker crumbs or crushed nuts on top for a bit of crunch. Storage or reheating tips: Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best served chilled, but if you prefer it warm, enjoy a slice slightly warmed in the microwave.