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Decadent Italian love cake slice on a red plate, featuring rich layers of creamy ricotta, moist chocolate cake, and smooth chocolate frosting, perfect for dessert enthusiasts.

Italian Love Cake

A rich and creamy Italian Love Cake with layers of chocolate cake, sweet ricotta, and silky chocolate pudding. This easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing dessert is perfect for special occasions or just because!
5 from 1 vote
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Total Time 5 hours 10 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine Italian-American
Servings 12 slices
Calories 360 kcal

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Hand mixer or stand mixer
  • Spatula

Ingredients
  

  • 1 box chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box)
  • 2 pounds ricotta cheese
  • 4 large eggs
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 package instant chocolate pudding mix (3.9 oz)
  • 1 cup cold milk
  • 8 ounces whipped topping (such as Cool Whip, thawed)

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  • Prepare chocolate cake batter according to the package instructions and pour into the greased baking dish.
  • In a large mixing bowl, beat together ricotta cheese, eggs, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  • Gently spoon the ricotta mixture over the cake batter. Do not mix—layers will flip during baking.
  • Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
  • In a medium bowl, whisk together instant chocolate pudding mix and cold milk until thickened.
  • Gently fold the whipped topping into the pudding until smooth.
  • Spread the pudding mixture evenly over the cooled cake.
  • Refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight is best) before slicing and serving.

Notes

This cake tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together! Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To freeze, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Keyword Chocolate Cake, Italian Love Cake, Ricotta Cake