Ricotta and chocolate cheesecake

Here is a delicious recipe for a ricotta and chocolate cheesecake with an Italian twist. This version of the cheesecake is a perfect mix of the creaminess of the ricotta and the intense sweetness of the chocolate.

Ingredients

For the base:

• 200 g of dry biscuits (like Digestive or cocoa biscuits)
• 100 g of melted butter
• 30 g of sugar (optional)

For the filling:

• 500 g of ricotta
• 200 g of dark chocolate
• 100 g of powdered sugar
• 3 eggs
• 1 sachet of vanillin or one teaspoon of vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt

For the ganache (optional):

• 100 g of dark chocolate
• 100 ml of fresh cream

To decorate:

• Chocolate shavings
• Fresh fruit, such as strawberries or raspberries (optional)

Preparation

1. Base: Crush the biscuits until you obtain a fine powder and mix with the melted butter and sugar, if you decide to use it. Spread the biscuit mixture onto the bottom of a springform pan (about 22-24 cm in diameter) previously lined with parchment paper. Firmly pack the base and let it cool in the refrigerator.

2. Filling: Melt the chocolate in a double boiler or in the microwave and let it cool slightly. In the meantime, in a bowl, work the ricotta with the powdered sugar, vanillin, and a pinch of salt. Add the eggs one at a time, incorporating well each time. Add the melted chocolate and mix until you have a smooth cream.

3. Assembly: Pour the ricotta and chocolate mixture over the biscuit base in the pan and level the surface. Bake in a preheated oven at 160 °C for about 1 hour or until the center of the cheesecake is firm but still slightly wobbly.

4. Cooling: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool completely, then put it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, better if overnight.

5. Ganache: If you decide to add the ganache, heat the cream without bringing it to a boil and pour over the chopped chocolate. Let it melt and then stir until you get a smooth cream. Pour the ganache over the cold cheesecake and spread it evenly.

6. Decoration: Before serving, decorate the cheesecake with chocolate shavings and, if you wish, with fresh fruit for a touch of color and freshness.

Fun Facts

The cheesecake is a very versatile dessert and every country has its version. This version with ricotta and chocolate is an excellent example of how two such classic ingredients can turn into a sophisticated dessert. Ricotta, with its creaminess and lightness, is an excellent alternative to the heavier cream cheese used in traditional cheesecakes.