This delightful Orange Chocolate Ricotta Pie is a perfect blend of creamy ricotta cheese, rich chocolate, and bright citrus flavors. The smooth and slightly tangy filling is made with ricotta, orange zest, and juice, which pairs wonderfully with a chocolatey crust and a hint of vanilla. Topped with a drizzle of chocolate or a dusting of powdered sugar, this pie is an elegant and delicious dessert that works for any occasion—from casual dinners to festive gatherings. The combination of ricotta’s subtle sweetness and the vibrant orange notes creates a light and refreshing pie that balances perfectly with the deep richness of chocolate.
Ingredients:
Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs (e.g., Oreo, without filling)
- 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
Filling:
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 large orange
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, melted
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
Topping (optional):
- Melted chocolate or powdered sugar for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine the chocolate cookie crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until well mixed.
- Press the mixture into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish, forming an even crust.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes until set. Remove from the oven and let it cool while preparing the filling.
- Make the Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the ricotta cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract, orange zest, and orange juice until well combined.
- Stir in the melted chocolate until fully incorporated.
- Add the flour and mix just until combined, avoiding overmixing.
- Assemble and Bake:
- Pour the ricotta mixture into the cooled chocolate crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are slightly golden. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
- Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool to room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to let the flavors meld and the filling set completely.
- Serve:
- Before serving, garnish the pie with a drizzle of melted chocolate or a light dusting of powdered sugar for an extra touch of elegance. Enjoy this delightful pie chilled or at room temperature.
This Orange Chocolate Ricotta Pie is a deliciously unique twist on a classic dessert that will surely impress your guests!
