There’s something about a crumb cake that feels like a warm embrace, isn’t there? It’s comfort food in its finest form, with each slice whispering stories of homey kitchens and lazy Sunday mornings. One of my favorite memories revolves around my grandmother, who would bake when the clouds loomed outside, the smell of vanilla and sugar dancing through the air, wrapping us in their sweet scent. This Chocolate Chip Ricotta Crumb Cake brings those nostalgic moments rushing back. It’s rich yet light, with a delightful crumb topping that adds just the right amount of crunch to the soft cake—oh, and those chocolate chips! They melt into the batter, creating little pockets of happiness with every bite.
Recipe Timing
- Prep Duration: 15 minutes
- Active Cooking: 40 minutes
- Total Duration: 55 minutes
- Portion Size: 12 servings
- Complexity: Simple
Nutritional Recipe
- Calories per portion: Approximately 290 calories
- Protein: 5g
- Carbs: 36g
- Fats: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 16g
- Sodium: 180mg
Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Chip Ricotta Crumb Cake
Imagine a slice of cake that manages to be decadently rich, while still feeling light on your palate. That’s the magic of ricotta! It adds moisture and a slight tang, balancing beautifully with the sweetness of chocolate chips and a cinnamon-spiced crumb topping. Perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or dessert, this cake pleases every crowd. Serve it warm, and let people marvel not only at its taste but also at the unique texture—the crumb is as comforting as a friendly hug!
The Complete Cooking Journey
Let me take you on a delightful adventure to create this scrumptious Chocolate Chip Ricotta Crumb Cake. It starts by gathering some simple ingredients, mixing them together while the oven fills your home with the heavenly scent of baking. With a few easy steps, you’ll have a cake that not only looks beautiful but tastes like a slice of heaven!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
Method:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan to ensure your cake doesn’t stick.
Step 2: Cream Your Base
In a large bowl, beat together the ricotta cheese, softened butter, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This is where the magic starts as the mixture becomes creamy and delightful.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Flavors
Add in the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. This adds richness and that comforting aroma we all adore.
Step 4: Whisk Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually mix this into the wet ingredients until just combined. Be gentle—overmixing can make your cake tough!
Step 5: Fold in Sweet Chocolate
Gently fold in the chocolate chips. They’ll melt slightly as they bake, creating luscious pockets of gooey chocolate goodness.
Step 6: Pour and Spread
Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, ensuring every bite has the perfect texture.
Step 7: Create the Crumb Topping
In a separate bowl, combine the brown sugar, cinnamon, and rolled oats. Mix well and then sprinkle this mixture generously over the top of the cake batter, forming that coveted crumb layer.
Step 8: Bake and Transform
Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma that fills your kitchen during this time will utterly captivate you!
Step 9: Cool and Indulge
Let cool before serving. This allows the cake to set up nicely and makes for easier slicing.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
This Chocolate Chip Ricotta Crumb Cake is delicious on its own, but why not take it a step further? Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce for an indulgent dessert. Or, pair it with a fresh fruit salad for a lighter morning treat. Coffee lovers will find it pairs perfectly with a strong cup of brew!
Storage & Leftovers Guide
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it for longer, refrigerate and consume within a week. I doubt it’ll last that long, though!
Kitchen Wisdom & Success Tips
- Ensure your butter is room temperature for easier mixing.
- Don’t skip the crumb topping—the sweetness and spice are essential to the cake’s charm!
- Test for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
Flavor Variations & Adaptations
- Nutty Delight: Add a 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for that perfect crunch.
- Fruit Lover: Fold in fresh berries like blueberries or raspberries for a refreshing twist.
- Spice It Up: Swap out cinnamon for nutmeg or pumpkin spice for seasonal flair.
Reader Questions & Solutions
- Can I use cottage cheese instead of ricotta?
Yes, but it will alter the texture slightly. Ensure you blend it well to smooth out any lumps. - How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend, and be sure it includes xanthan gum. - Why does my cake sink in the middle?
This might happen if the batter was overmixed or if the oven wasn’t fully preheated. - Can I freeze the cake?
Absolutely! Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It will last up to 3 months in the freezer. - What can I substitute for eggs in this recipe?
You can use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) or 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce as a substitute.
Wrapping Up
Baking this Chocolate Chip Ricotta Crumb Cake is not just about creating a delicious dessert—it’s about invoking memories, creating new traditions, and sharing love with each slice. I hope you revel in the process as much as you do in the outcomes. So gather those ingredients and let the delightful aroma of baking fill your home. Happy baking!
Print
Chocolate Chip Ricotta Crumb Cake
- Total Time: 55
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A rich yet light crumb cake featuring chocolate chips, ricotta cheese, and a crunchy cinnamon-spiced topping, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, beat together the ricotta cheese, softened butter, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add in the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually mix this into the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Gently fold in the chocolate chips.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
- In a separate bowl, combine the brown sugar, cinnamon, and rolled oats, then sprinkle this mixture over the cake batter.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let cool before serving.
Notes
Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 40
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
