Italian Love Cake Recipe: A Decadent, Creamy, and Irresistible Dessert

Italian Love Cake is one of those desserts that feels like a little bit of magic. You start with layers of chocolate cake batter and a sweet ricotta mixture, but as it bakes, something incredible happens—the layers *flip!* What comes out of the oven is a rich, creamy, melt-in-your-mouth cake with a luscious ricotta base, moist chocolate cake in the middle, and a silky chocolate pudding topping. It’s decadent, indulgent, and honestly, one of the easiest cakes you’ll ever make.

This cake has been a staple in my family for years. I made it for my daughter’s birthday last year, and it was an instant hit—so much so that I had to make a second one for my husband’s office! It’s the perfect dessert for holidays, birthdays, or those days when you just need something truly indulgent. (Bonus: it actually tastes better the next day, so it’s *ideal* for making ahead!)

Your Grocery List

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this melt-in-your-mouth Italian Love Cake:

• 1 box chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box)
• 2 pounds ricotta cheese
• 4 large eggs
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 package (3.9 oz) instant chocolate pudding mix
• 1 cup cold milk
• 8 ounces whipped topping (such as Cool Whip), thawed

The Magic of Italian Love Cake

Okay, let’s talk about the *real* reason everyone loves this cake—it basically bakes itself into layers! When you pour the ricotta mixture over the cake batter, it seems like it’s just going to sit on top. But nope! As the cake bakes, the ricotta sinks to the bottom and the cake rises to the top, creating a perfectly layered dessert without any extra work. It’s like a little baking science experiment, and it never gets old watching it happen.

How to Make Italian Love Cake

Despite its fancy layers, this cake is actually *super* easy to make. Here’s how:

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Make the Cake Batter: Prepare the chocolate cake mix according to the package instructions. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish.
3. Mix the Ricotta Layer: In a large bowl, beat together the ricotta cheese, eggs, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Layer It Up: Gently spoon the ricotta mixture over the cake batter. *Do not mix!* The layers will switch places as it bakes.
5. Bake: Place the cake in the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set.
6. Cool Completely: Let the cake cool to room temperature before adding the topping.
7. Make the Pudding Topping: In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix and cold milk until thickened.
8. Fold in the Whipped Topping: Gently stir the whipped topping into the pudding until smooth.
9. Top the Cake: Spread the pudding mixture evenly over the cooled cake.
10. Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight is best!) before slicing and serving.

Make It Even Better

Want to put your own spin on Italian Love Cake? Try these fun variations:

• Switch Up the Cake: Swap chocolate cake for vanilla, red velvet, or marble.
• Try a New Pudding Flavor: Vanilla, butterscotch, or even pistachio would be amazing!
• Add a Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle on chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or crushed cookies.
• Flavor the Ricotta: Add a little orange zest or almond extract for an extra twist.

How to Store & Serve Italian Love Cake

This cake is *best* served cold, straight from the fridge. In fact, it tastes even better the next day! Just cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Can You Freeze Italian Love Cake?

Absolutely! Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

What to Serve with Italian Love Cake

This cake is *rich* and *creamy*, so it pairs beautifully with:

• A shot of espresso or a cappuccino
• Fresh berries for a fruity contrast
• A drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce

Prep Time, Cook Time, and Servings

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
• Total Time: About 5 hours (including chilling)
• Servings: 12

Fun Fact About Italian Love Cake

While the exact origins of Italian Love Cake are a little mysterious, it’s often served for weddings, anniversaries, and special occasions—hence the name! Some say the “love” in the title comes from how much effort and care goes into making this special dessert.

Allergen Warnings & Substitutions

This recipe contains dairy, eggs, and gluten. To make a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free cake mix. For a dairy-free option, try using almond-based ricotta, coconut whipped topping, and dairy-free pudding.