Zucchini Ricotta Bundt Cake Ciambella
The Zucchini Ricotta Bundt Cake Ciambella is a moist, fluffy, and subtly sweet bundt cake combining tender grated zucchini and creamy ricotta cheese. This easy-to-make cake offers a soft texture and fresh flavor, perfect for snacks, dessert, or breakfast. Featuring simple pantry staples, it’s a versatile and impressive homemade treat ideal for any season.
- Author: Lina
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups grated zucchini (squeezed to remove excess moisture)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese (preferably fresh)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free option)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil (or suitable oil for dairy-free version)
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- Prepare the Zucchini: Grate the zucchini finely. Gently squeeze out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to prevent a watery batter while retaining enough moisture to keep the cake tender.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, vegetable oil, ricotta cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and slightly fluffy, creating a creamy base for the cake.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon if using. This ensures even distribution of the rising agents and spices.
- Incorporate Zucchini and Dry Ingredients: Gently fold the grated zucchini into the wet mixture, then gradually add the dry ingredients. Mix carefully until just combined to avoid overmixing, preserving a light texture.
- Prepare the Bundt Pan and Bake: Thoroughly grease the bundt pan with butter or nonstick spray, making sure to cover all grooves to prevent sticking. Pour the batter evenly into the pan and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 to 55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool in the pan for about 15 minutes, then carefully invert onto a wire rack to cool completely. This maintains the cake’s shape and prevents sogginess.
Notes
- Do not skip draining the zucchini to avoid a dense or soggy cake.
- Use room temperature eggs, ricotta, and oil for smoother batter and better texture.
- Check cake doneness starting at 40 minutes, as ovens may vary.
- Fresh ricotta enhances moisture and flavor better than container-packed varieties.
- Properly grease and flour the bundt pan or use a specialized nonstick baking spray to avoid sticking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of cake)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1.5g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: zucchini cake, ricotta cake, bundt cake, vegetable cake, moist cake, gluten-free cake, easy dessert, Italian ciambella