Introduction

Italian Love Cake is a rich and decadent dessert that combines creamy ricotta, moist chocolate cake, and a luscious chocolate pudding frosting. It’s a perfect treat for special occasions or when you want to impress your loved ones with something unique and delicious.

A square piece of layered dessert sits on a white plate with a glossy white marbled surface beneath. The dessert has four distinct layers: at the bottom is a thin, dense dark brown crust, followed by a thick creamy pale yellow layer. Above this is a dark brown, moist cake layer with a slightly spongy texture. The top layer is thick, light brown whipped mousse-like cream with smooth peaks and a glossy finish. In the blurred background, another similar dessert piece sits on a white plate. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 (15-ounce) containers of ricotta cheese
1 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
4 large eggs (room temperature)
1 (15.25-ounce) box chocolate or devil’s food cake mix
1/2 cup canola or vegetable oil
1 cup water
3 large eggs
1 (5-ounce) box instant chocolate pudding
3 cups cold milk
1 (8-ounce) container whipped topping, thawed

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Set aside.
Step 2: For the ricotta layer, combine ricotta cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract in a bowl. Use an electric mixer to blend until smooth, then gradually add 4 eggs and mix until fully incorporated.
Step 3: In a separate bowl, whisk together the chocolate cake mix, oil, water, and 3 eggs until the batter is smooth and well combined.
Step 4: Pour the chocolate cake batter evenly into the prepared baking dish.
Step 5: Carefully pour the ricotta mixture over the cake batter, spreading it evenly across the surface.
Step 6: Bake for 1 hour to 1 hour and 10 minutes, until the cake is set and a toothpick inserted near the center comes out mostly clean. The cake may still be slightly jiggly in the middle.
Step 7: Allow the cake to cool completely to room temperature before frosting.
Step 8: To make the chocolate pudding frosting, whisk together instant pudding mix and cold milk until smooth. Let it rest for 2 to 3 minutes to thicken.
Step 9: Fold the whipped topping gently into the pudding mixture until combined.
Step 10: Spread the pudding frosting evenly over the cooled cake. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Tips & Variations

Use high-quality ricotta and chocolate cake mix for the best flavor and texture.
For a richer taste, try substituting the oil with melted butter in the cake batter.
To add a festive touch, sprinkle chocolate shavings or mini chocolate chips over the pudding frosting before chilling.
Allow the cake to chill overnight for even better flavor and texture.

Storage

Store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it well wrapped to prevent it from absorbing any fridge odors. Reheat is not recommended as the frosting is best enjoyed cold. Simply serve chilled for the best taste and texture.

How to Serve

A neat white rectangular baking dish holds a layered dessert cut into nine square pieces, with one piece missing from the corner, revealing three distinct layers: the bottom layer is a yellowish creamy cheesecake, the middle layer is dark brown chocolate cake, and the top layer is a smooth, thick, light brown chocolate mousse slightly swirled on the surface. The dish sits on a white marbled background, and two glass bottles of milk are slightly blurred in the back left corner. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, this cake actually benefits from resting in the refrigerator. Prepare it a day ahead and chill for several hours or overnight to allow the flavors to fully develop.

Can I use homemade chocolate cake instead of cake mix?

Absolutely. If you prefer, use your favorite chocolate cake recipe in place of the boxed mix. Just be sure the batter is smooth and pourable for best results.