Cassata
Discover the elegance of Sicilian cassata, a show-stopping dessert that blends layers of delicate sponge cake, sweet ricotta filling, and vibrant marzipan. This no-bake Italian classic is a celebration of texture and flavor, featuring candied fruits, dark chocolate chips, and a touch of vanilla that perfectly complement the creamy ricotta cheese. Finished with a smooth layer of colorful marzipan and a drizzle of icing, cassata is as beautiful to behold as it is to eat. Ideal for festive occasions, this chilled dessert is a delightful centerpiece that tastes even better when prepared in advance. Whether you're showcasing traditional Sicilian flavors or looking to impress with a unique, stunning dessert, cassata is guaranteed to be a hit.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 4 slices (1/2 inch thick) Sponge cake
- 500 grams Ricotta cheese
- 200 grams Powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons Vanilla extract
- 100 grams Dark chocolate chips
- 50 grams Candied orange peel
- 50 grams Candied cherries
- 200 grams Marzipan
- 1 drop (optional) Green food coloring
- 100 grams Icing sugar
- 2 tablespoons Water
Instructions
1. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix well until smooth and creamy.
2. Gently fold in the dark chocolate chips, candied orange peel, and chopped candied cherries to create the ricotta filling.
3. Line a round cake mold or bowl (about 8 inches in diameter) with plastic wrap, ensuring there is extra wrap hanging over the edges for easy removal.
4. Trim the sponge cake slices to fit the base and sides of the mold. Line the bottom of the mold and the sides with the cake, pressing gently to ensure it adheres.
5. Spread the ricotta cheese filling evenly into the mold, pressing gently to ensure an even layer and no air gaps.
6. Place another layer of sponge cake slices on top to seal the filling. This will become the base when the cassata is inverted.
7. Cover the mold with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to firm up.
8. On a clean work surface, knead the marzipan until pliable. If using, add the green food coloring and knead until evenly colored.
9. Roll out the marzipan into a thin sheet, large enough to fully cover the cassata. Dust your surface with icing sugar to prevent sticking.
10. Once the cassata is chilled and firm, invert it onto a serving plate and remove the plastic wrap.
11. Carefully drape the marzipan over the cassata, smoothing it gently to adhere to the surface. Trim any excess marzipan from the edges.
12. To prepare the icing, mix the icing sugar and water until smooth. Drizzle or spread the icing over the cassata for decoration.
13. Garnish with additional candied cherries, candied fruits, or edible decorations if desired. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
14. Slice and enjoy this elegant, sweet, and vibrant cassata.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
454 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 15.4 g | 20% | |
| Saturated Fat | 7.9 g | 39% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 46 mg | 15% | |
| Sodium | 100 mg | 4% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 70.9 g | 26% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.7 g | 6% | |
| Total Sugars | 60.9 g | ||
| Protein | 10.1 g | 20% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.1 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 160 mg | 12% | |
| Iron | 1.6 mg | 9% | |
| Potassium | 171 mg | 4% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
