Ricotta and chocolate cheesecake

Ricotta and Chocolate Cheesecake

A dessert that combines the delicacy of ricotta with the richness of chocolate, the ricotta and chocolate cheesecake is a perfect choice for any occasion. It is a quick, easy-to-make dessert, yet with a remarkable visual and taste impact. I will share the recipe step by step, so you can create a special cheesecake that will impress anyone who tastes it.

Total preparation time: 60 minutes
Cooling time: 3-4 hours
Number of servings: 12

Ingredients needed

For the crust:
- 350 g petit biscuits (you can also use digestive biscuits if you prefer)
- 200 g unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 50 g cocoa powder (choose a quality cocoa for an intense flavor)

For the filling:
- 500 g ricotta (make sure it is fresh for a creamy texture)
- 4 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste; you can add more if you prefer a sweeter cheesecake)
- 5 eggs (at room temperature for better incorporation into the filling)

For the glaze:
- 100 g milk chocolate (or dark chocolate if you prefer a more pronounced contrast)
- 5 tablespoons milk

Preparing the cheesecake

Step 1: Preparing the crust
1. Start by crushing the biscuits in a food processor or using a classic method by placing them in a bag and crushing them with a rolling pin.
2. In a large bowl, combine the crushed biscuits with the melted butter, sugar, and cocoa. Mix well until you obtain a homogeneous mixture that holds together well.
3. Line a springform pan with baking paper and spread the biscuit mixture evenly, pressing down well with a spatula to form a compact layer.
4. Place the crust in the refrigerator to firm up while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Preparing the filling
1. Meanwhile, separate the egg yolks from the whites. In a bowl, mix the yolks with the ricotta and the 4 tablespoons of sugar until you obtain a smooth cream. If you like a sweeter cheesecake, add a few extra tablespoons of sugar.
2. In another bowl, whip the egg whites until stiff peaks form. It’s important to use a clean bowl with no traces of fat, otherwise, the egg whites won’t whip properly.
3. Gently fold the egg whites into the ricotta cream using a spatula, with a motion from top to bottom to maintain the air in the mixture.

Step 3: Baking the cheesecake
1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Pour the ricotta filling over the biscuit base, smoothing the surface with a spatula.
3. Bake the cheesecake for 45 minutes. It is important not to open the oven door during baking to avoid affecting the texture.

Step 4: Chocolate glaze
1. Once the cheesecake is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for 3-4 hours.
2. For the glaze, melt the chocolate with the milk in a double boiler, stirring constantly until smooth and shiny.
3. Once the cheesecake has completely cooled, pour the chocolate glaze on top and let it chill in the refrigerator for another 30 minutes to set.

Serving the cheesecake

Remove the cheesecake from the refrigerator and carefully detach the springform ring. You can decorate with chocolate shavings or a few fresh fruits, such as raspberries or strawberries, for a color contrast and a touch of freshness. Serve it alongside a cup of coffee or tea for an unforgettable culinary experience.

Useful tips
- You can adapt the recipe by adding flavors such as vanilla or lemon zest to the ricotta cream for a more complex taste.
- If you prefer a fluffier texture, you can replace part of the ricotta with well-drained cottage cheese.
- The cheesecake can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, being even better the next day when the flavors have melded.

Frequently asked questions
- What if the crust doesn’t hold together well? Make sure you used enough butter and pressed the biscuit mixture firmly into the pan.
- Can I use another type of cheese? Yes, you can experiment with cottage cheese or mascarpone, but the result will differ in texture and taste.
- How can I customize the glaze? You can add vanilla extract or even a bit of rum for extra flavor.

Nutritional benefits
Ricotta is an excellent source of protein, calcium, and B vitamins, contributing to a healthy lifestyle. The biscuits provide carbohydrates that will give you energy, and chocolate, in moderation, can have positive effects on mood.

This ricotta and chocolate cheesecake recipe is not only simple and quick but also a splendid way to add flavor and elegance to your table. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to indulge yourself, this dessert will surely be a hit!