Ricotta Cake Flavored with Lemon Balm

Ingredients:

• 2 cups Ricotta cheese
• 1 and 1/2 cups All-purpose flour
• 1 cup Sugar
• 1/2 cup Unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 3 Eggs
• 1/2 teaspoon Baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt
• 1/4 cup Lemon balm leaves, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Grease and flour a 9-inch cake pan.
3. In a mixing bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, sugar, and butter until creamy.
4. Add one egg at a time and beat well after each addition.
5. In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until well combined.
6. Stir in the finely chopped lemon balm leaves and vanilla extract.
7. Transfer the mixture to the greased cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
8. Bake for 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
9. Let the cake cool in the pan for 5 minutes.
10. Remove the cake from the pan and let it cool completely on a wire rack.

Verdict:

This ricotta cake flavored with lemon balm is a perfect dessert or a delicious tea-time snack. The cake has just the right amount of sweetness and the lemon balm adds a fresh, citrusy flavor that balances well with the ricotta cheese. The texture of the cake is moist and fluffy, making it a perfect indulgence on a lazy afternoon or as an after-dinner treat.

Serving Suggestions:

The cake can be served with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh berries. Alternatively, it can be dusted with powdered sugar or topped with lemon glaze and served with a cup of hot tea. This cake pairs well with both sweet and tangy accompaniments and can be served on any occasion.