Italian Love Cake (Printable Page)

# What You Need:

→ Ricotta Layer

01 - 2 (15-ounce) containers of ricotta cheese
02 - 1 cup granulated sugar
03 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
04 - 4 large eggs (room temperature)

→ Chocolate Cake

05 - 1 (15.25-ounce) box chocolate or devil’s food cake mix
06 - 1/2 cup canola or vegetable oil
07 - 1 cup water
08 - 3 large eggs

→ Chocolate Pudding Frosting

09 - 1 (5-ounce) box instant chocolate pudding
10 - 3 cups cold milk
11 - 1 (8-ounce) container whipped topping (thawed)

# How to Make It:

01 - Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray and set aside.
02 - In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer, blend until smooth, then gradually add in the eggs, mixing well.
03 - In a separate medium bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, canola oil, water, and eggs. Whisk until the batter is smooth.
04 - Pour the chocolate cake batter into the prepared baking dish. Carefully pour the ricotta mixture over the chocolate cake batter, ensuring it's evenly distributed.
05 - Bake for 1 hour to 1 hour and 10 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean (the center may still be slightly jiggly).
06 - Allow the cake to cool to room temperature.
07 - In a bowl, whisk together the chocolate pudding and cold milk until well mixed. Let it rest for 2-3 minutes. Fold in the thawed whipped topping into the pudding mixture.
08 - Once the cake has cooled, spread the chocolate pudding frosting evenly over the top. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving.

# Helpful Tips:

01 - For added flavor, consider mixing in chocolate chips into the ricotta layer.
02 - Serve with fresh berries for a decorative touch.