Easter Sweet Ricotta Pie Lemon (Print View)

Classic Italian dessert with creamy ricotta and fresh lemon zest in a delicate pastry crust.

# What You'll Need:

→ Pastry

01 - 2 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
03 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
04 - 1 large egg
05 - 1 large egg yolk
06 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
07 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
08 - 2 to 3 tablespoons cold water

→ Ricotta Filling

09 - 2 cups whole milk ricotta cheese, well drained
10 - 3/4 cup granulated sugar
11 - 3 large eggs
12 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
13 - Zest of 2 lemons
14 - 1 tablespoon lemon juice
15 - 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
16 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
17 - 1/4 cup heavy cream

→ Finishing

18 - Powdered sugar for dusting

# Step-by-Step Directions:

01 - In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add cold butter cubes and rub between fingertips until mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
02 - Mix in whole egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract. Add cold water one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently until dough just comes together without overworking.
03 - Shape dough into a flat disk, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
04 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9-inch pie or tart pan with butter or cooking spray.
05 - On a lightly floured surface, roll dough to 1/8-inch thickness. Transfer to prepared pan, gently pressing into bottom and sides. Trim excess edges, prick base with fork, and chill for 10 minutes.
06 - In a large bowl, whisk together drained ricotta, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, lemon zest, lemon juice, flour, salt, and heavy cream until smooth and well combined.
07 - Pour ricotta mixture into prepared pastry shell and smooth the top surface evenly.
08 - Bake for 55 to 60 minutes until filling is set and lightly golden. The center should have a slight wobble when gently shaken.
09 - Remove from oven and cool on a wire rack at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing.
10 - Dust with powdered sugar immediately before serving.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • Perfect balance of creamy ricotta and bright lemon zest creates a refreshing, not-too-sweet dessert
  • Traditional Italian recipe that brings authentic Easter celebration flavors to your table
  • Tender, buttery pastry crust complements the smooth filling beautifully
  • Makes an impressive centerpiece dessert that's surprisingly approachable for medium-skill bakers
  • Can be prepared ahead and chilled, making it ideal for stress-free entertaining
02 -
  • Drain ricotta thoroughly for at least one hour to prevent a watery filling
  • Keep butter cold and handle pastry dough minimally for the flakiest crust
  • Use a microplane or fine grater to zest lemons, avoiding the bitter white pith
  • The filling should have a slight wobble when done—it will set completely as it cools
  • Chill the pie for at least 2 hours before slicing for clean, beautiful cuts
  • Dust with powdered sugar just before serving to maintain the best appearance
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