Italian Love Cake: A Rich, Layered Dessert with a Surprise

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Italian Love Cake: A Rich, Layered Dessert with a Surprise!

This decadent Italian Love Cake is a showstopping dessert with three luscious layers: a moist chocolate cake, a creamy ricotta-cheesecake filling, and fluffy whipped chocolate pudding frosting. The magic? As it bakes, the ricotta layer sinks to the middle, creating a hidden surprise!

Perfect for special occasions, holidays, or when you want to impress—it’s a labor of love that’s totally worth it. ❤️

🍫 Ingredients

For the Chocolate Cake Layer:

1 box (15.25 oz) chocolate cake mix (or homemade)
Ingredients listed on cake mix box (eggs, oil, water)

For the Ricotta Cheesecake Layer:

2 lbs (32 oz) whole-milk ricotta cheese
4 large eggs
¾ cup granulated sugar

1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Pudding Frosting:

1 (3.4 oz) box instant chocolate pudding mix
1 cup cold milk

1 (8 oz) container frozen whipped topping (thawed)

📝 Instructions

1. Prep & Preheat

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. Make the Chocolate Cake Layer

Prepare the cake mix according to package instructions.
Pour batter into the greased pan and smooth the top.

3. Make the Ricotta Layer

In a blender or mixer, beat ricotta, eggs, sugar, and vanilla until smooth.

Pour evenly over the chocolate cake batter (do not mix!).

4. Bake & Let Cool

Bake for 50–60 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean.
Let cool completely (the ricotta layer will sink as it cools).

5. Make the Pudding Frosting

Whisk pudding mix + milk until thickened (about 2 mins).
Fold in whipped topping until smooth.
Spread over the cooled cake.

6. Chill & Serve

Refrigerate at least 4 hours (best overnight).
Slice and enjoy cold!

💡 Why This Cake is Special

✅ Three layers in one! No stacking required—the ricotta sinks naturally.
✅ Ultra-moist from the ricotta layer.
✅ Easy but impressive—great for parties.

🍴 Serving Suggestions

Dust with cocoa powder or chocolate shavings.
Top with fresh berries (strawberries or raspberries).

Serve with a dollop of whipped cream.

🔄 Variations

Vanilla version: Use yellow cake mix + vanilla pudding.
Lemon twist: Add lemon zest to the ricotta layer.

Nutty crunch: Sprinkle chopped pistachios on top.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use homemade cake batter instead of a mix?
A: Yes! Use your favorite chocolate cake recipe.

Q: Why did my ricotta layer not sink?
A: It should settle as it bakes—if not, it may need more baking time.

Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Absolutely! It tastes even better the next day.

Love this recipe? Try Italian Cream Cake or Tiramisu next! 😊🍰