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Easy Chocolate Italian Love Cake with Ricotta Filling

Close-up of a decadent slice of Italian Love Cake with dark chocolate layers and white cream filling.
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Make this decadent, layered Italian Love Cake featuring moist chocolate cake, creamy ricotta filling, and smooth chocolate pudding frosting. It is a simple, show-stopping dessert perfect for family gatherings.

Ingredients

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  • 1 box chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients called for on box)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese, whole milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 (3.4 ounce) package instant vanilla pudding mix
  • 1 cup cold milk (for pudding)
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/4 cup milk (for frosting)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the chocolate cake layer: Mix the chocolate cake mix according to the package directions, but substitute the required water with 1 cup of whole milk. Pour batter into a greased and floured 9×13 inch baking pan. Bake according to package directions for a 9×13 pan. Let the cake cool completely in the pan.
  2. Prepare the ricotta filling: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and granulated sugar. Add the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of whole milk, and vanilla extract. Mix until just combined. Gently fold in the two eggs until smooth.
  3. Spread the ricotta mixture evenly over the cooled chocolate cake layer. Place the cake in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the pudding.
  4. Prepare the pudding layer: Whisk the instant vanilla pudding mix with 1 cup of cold milk until thickened, about 5 minutes. Spread this mixture over the ricotta layer. Return the cake to the refrigerator to set for at least 30 minutes.
  5. Prepare the chocolate frosting: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, alternating with the 1/4 cup of milk. Beat until smooth and spreadable.
  6. Frost the chilled cake with the chocolate frosting. Slice and serve cold.

Notes

  • For best results and easier slicing, chill the cake for at least 2 hours after frosting.
  • This cake tastes even better the next day, making it great for meal planning ahead of time.
  • If you are looking for alternatives to traditional baking, consider how services like the best meal delivery services can save you time on weeknight dinners.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://carlacooking.com/italian-love-cake-recipe/