Description
A creamy and tangy Orange or Clementine Ricotta Cheesecake featuring smooth ricotta cheese infused with fresh citrus zest and juice, baked to a perfect golden finish. This delicate dessert is light, fluffy, and garnished with powdered sugar and fresh citrus slices for an elegant presentation.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheesecake Batter
- 1 1/2 pounds ricotta cheese (whole or part-skim)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- Zest of 2 oranges or clementines
- 1/4 cup fresh orange or clementine juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For Garnish (Optional)
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
- Orange or clementine slices
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch springform pan thoroughly and line the bottom with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix Base Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, beat the ricotta cheese together with granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy, forming a uniform base for the cheesecake.
- Incorporate Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, carefully beating each egg fully into the mixture before adding the next to ensure proper incorporation and a smooth batter.
- Add Citrus Flavor: Stir in the zest and fresh juice of your oranges or clementines along with vanilla extract, distributing the citrus flavor evenly throughout the batter.
- Sift Dry Ingredients: Sift the all-purpose flour and salt together, and gently fold these dry ingredients into the batter until just combined and smooth without overmixing.
- Prepare for Baking: Pour the prepared batter into the greased and lined springform pan, smoothing the top with a spatula for an even surface.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-55 minutes, or until the surface is lightly golden and the center remains slightly jiggly when gently shaken.
- Cool Gradually: After baking, turn off the oven and crack the door open. Leave the cheesecake inside to cool gradually for one hour, which helps prevent cracking.
- Chill: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, preferably overnight, to allow it to set completely and develop its flavors.
- Serve: Before serving, dust the cake lightly with powdered sugar and garnish with fresh orange or clementine slices to enhance the citrus aroma and presentation.
Notes
- Use whole ricotta cheese for a richer texture or part-skim for a lighter version.
- Ensure eggs are at room temperature for better blending and texture.
- Do not overbake; the center should remain slightly jiggly to keep the cheesecake creamy.
- Use fresh citrus juice and zest for the best flavor impact.
- Allow the cheesecake to chill well for optimal slicing and flavor development.
