Name: Italian Lemon Ricotta Cheesecake Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h 15 min
Total time: 7 h 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 3 pounds whole milk ricotta cheese; 8 large eggs; 1 ¼ cup sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Zest of 3 lemons; Olive oil (to coat the pan)

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Introduction

This Italian Lemon Ricotta Cheesecake is a light and fluffy dessert bursting with bright citrus flavors. Made with creamy ricotta cheese and fresh lemon zest, it’s a delightful change from traditional heavy cheesecakes. Perfect for a refreshing treat after dinner or a special occasion.

A single slice of cheesecake with a golden brown top layer dotted with small darker spots. The cheesecake has a thick creamy white layer underneath the top. On the top, there is a sprinkling of bright yellow lemon zest. The slice sits on a white plate with blue intricate patterns around the surface, with some lemon zest scattered on the plate. To the right side of the plate is a silver fork. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

3 pounds whole milk ricotta cheese
8 large eggs
1 ¼ cup sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Zest of 3 lemons
Olive oil to coat the pan

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F.
Step 2: Strain the ricotta cheese to remove excess liquid and discard the liquid.
Step 3: In the bowl of a standing mixer fitted with a blade, combine the ricotta, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon zest. Mix on low speed, gradually increasing to medium-low, for about 10 minutes. The mixture should become light and fluffy. If using a hand mixer, keep the speed low, or whisk continuously with a wooden spoon until fluffy.
Step 4: Coat the bottom and sides of a 9-inch springform pan with olive oil to prevent sticking. Place the springform pan on a large sheet pan.
Step 5: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and gently shake it to level the surface.
Step 6: Bake for 30 minutes at 425 degrees F. Then reduce the oven temperature to 375 degrees F and bake for an additional 40 to 45 minutes, until the cake is mostly firm and the top is golden brown. The cake may still jiggle slightly when done but will firm up as it cools.
Step 7: Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely for 1 to 2 hours. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight.
Step 8: Once fully chilled, remove the springform pan. Slice and serve with an optional sprinkle of extra lemon zest on top.

Tips & Variations

Make sure to thoroughly strain the ricotta to avoid a watery cheesecake.
For a richer flavor, use full-fat ricotta. Low-fat versions may affect texture.
Add a tablespoon of lemon juice for a more pronounced citrus tang.
Try garnishing with fresh berries or a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness.
If you don’t have a springform pan, line a regular cake pan with parchment paper for easier removal.

Storage

Store the cheesecake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It is best served chilled. To reheat slightly, let it sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving, but avoid warming too much as it may lose its texture.

How to Serve

A single slice of lemon cheesecake sits on a white plate with delicate blue floral and swirl patterns, edged with a soft green border. The cheesecake has two layers: a thick, dense, pale cream base topped with a smooth, golden brown surface that is slightly darker around the edges. Bright yellow lemon zest is sprinkled generously over the top, adding texture and color contrast. A silver fork rests near the slice on the plate. The plate is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use ricotta from a container without straining?

It’s best to strain ricotta before using to remove excess moisture. This helps the cheesecake set properly and prevents it from being too soft or watery.

Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?

Yes, this cheesecake actually benefits from being made ahead. Refrigerating it overnight allows the flavors to develop fully and firms up the texture for perfect slicing.