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Chocolate Ricotta Layer Cake

Yummy Eats Daily
A dreamy double-decker dessert with a moist chocolate cake base crowned by a silky ricotta layer and finished with a light chocolate pudding–whipped topping. Rich yet surprisingly light, it’s perfect for celebrations or potlucks.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Chill Time 4 hours
Total Time 5 hours 20 minutes
Calories 360 kcal

Ingredients
  

Ricotta Layer

  • 2 15 oz containers ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 4 large eggs room temperature

Chocolate Cake

  • 1 15.25 oz box chocolate cake mix
  • ½ cup vegetable oil
  • 1 cup water
  • 3 large eggs

Pudding Frosting

  • 1 5 oz box instant chocolate pudding mix
  • 3 cups cold milk
  • 1 8 oz container whipped topping, thawed

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  • In a bowl, mix ricotta, sugar, and vanilla.
  • Add eggs one at a time, mixing until smooth.
  • Prepare the cake batter according to box instructions.
  • Pour the chocolate batter into the baking dish.
  • Carefully layer the ricotta mixture on top.
  • Bake for 60–70 minutes or until the center is set. Cool completely.
  • See full steps with tips & photos → https://p4pd.org/chocolate-ricotta-cake/

Notes

  • Make-Ahead: This cake improves with time—assemble a day ahead and keep refrigerated.
  • Ricotta Tips: For a smoother texture, drain ricotta in a fine-mesh sieve for 15 minutes before mixing.
  • Flavor Variations: Stir 2 Tbsp espresso powder into the cake batter for a mocha twist, or add orange zest to the ricotta layer.