Description
This Coconut Ricotta Cloud Cake is a light and airy dessert featuring creamy ricotta cheese combined with coconut milk and shredded coconut for a tropical twist. Fluffy egg whites are folded in to create a cloud-like texture, while hints of vanilla and optional lemon zest add brightness. Baked to a golden perfection and garnished with toasted coconut flakes, this cake is perfect for those seeking a moist yet delicate treat with a subtle coconut flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3 eggs, separated
- 1/2 cup full-fat coconut milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
Dry Ingredients
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
For Garnish
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
- 1/4 cup toasted coconut flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line the bottom of an 8-inch springform pan with parchment paper for easy removal and set aside.
- Mix Ricotta and Sugar: In a large bowl, whisk together the whole milk ricotta cheese and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add Remaining Wet and Dry Ingredients: To the ricotta mixture, add the egg yolks, coconut milk, shredded coconut, all-purpose flour, baking powder, vanilla extract, salt, and lemon zest if using. Mix until all ingredients are fully combined into a batter.
- Beat Egg Whites: In a separate clean bowl, beat the egg whites using an electric mixer until stiff peaks form. This step is crucial to achieve the cake’s light and airy texture.
- Fold Egg Whites Into Batter: Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the ricotta batter in three additions. Take care to fold delicately to preserve as much air as possible, which helps create the cloud-like fluffiness.
- Pour and Bake: Pour the combined batter into the prepared springform pan and smooth the top evenly with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges have turned a light golden color.
- Cool the Cake: Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This cooling stage helps the cake set properly.
- Remove Pan and Garnish: Carefully remove the sides of the springform pan and transfer the cake to a serving plate. Dust the top with powdered sugar and sprinkle toasted coconut flakes if desired.
- Serve: Slice into 8 pieces and serve as is, or pair with fresh berries or berry sauce for added flavor. For a richer texture, chill the cake for 1 to 2 hours before serving.
Notes
- For a richer texture, chill the cake for 1 to 2 hours before serving.
- Add a splash of almond extract to the batter for a more nutty flavor.
- This cake pairs wonderfully with fresh berries or a drizzle of berry sauce.
- Be careful when folding egg whites to retain air and maintain the light texture.
- Using full-fat ricotta and coconut milk enhances the cake’s moistness and flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American