Looking for a cake that feels like a warm hug from Nonna? Say hello to Italian Love Cake — a tender, moist, and delicately spiced cake that’s been passed down through generations in Italian-American homes.
This beloved dessert is everything you want in a classic cake: soft crumb, rich almond flavor, hints of citrus, and a sweet powdered sugar glaze that makes it extra special. It’s often baked for holidays, family gatherings, or simply as a weekend treat.
In this post, we’ll walk you through how to make authentic Italian Love Cake at home, plus share its history, expert baking tips, variations, and even how to monetize this content if you run a blog or YouTube channel.
Let’s get baking!
🧁 What Is Italian Love Cake?
Italian Love Cake (also known as “Torta di Ricotta” or “Love Cake”) is a traditional Italian-American dessert made with ricotta cheese, almonds, and spices. It’s not overly sweet, which makes it perfect for those who prefer a more delicate, old-world flavor profile.
It’s:
- Moist and tender
- Lightly sweetened
- Infused with almond and citrus notes
- Often dusted with powdered sugar or drizzled with a simple glaze
- Perfect for weddings, holidays, or anytime you need a comforting slice of nostalgia
This cake is traditionally served during Christmas, Easter, and special occasions — but once you taste it, you’ll want it all year round.
🛒 Ingredients You'll Need
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp nutmeg
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp almond extract
- 1 cup ricotta cheese (full-fat for best texture)
- Zest of 1 lemon or orange
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tbsp milk or water
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- Optional: sliced almonds or citrus zest for garnish
💡 Tip: Some versions include chopped candied fruit, raisins, or pine nuts for added texture.
🔪 Step-by-Step Instructions
