Susanna Cake: Ricotta and Chocolate Tart

The Susanna Cake is one of my favorite desserts, because I love the contrast between the crunchiness of the shortcrust pastry and the creaminess of the filling.

It’s a simple recipe, but with an irresistible taste.
Every time I make it, I ensure to use cold butter for a crumbly and delicate pastry. The cream must be smooth and without lumps, and the dark chocolate should be melted slowly for a glossy and even coating.
Why Do I Love Susanna Cake?
Because it’s the perfect combination of flavors! The sweetness of the ricotta cream perfectly balances the intensity of the dark chocolate, giving a unique sensation with every bite. It’s perfect as a dessert for a special dinner, or as an evening treat accompanied by coffee.

The first time I saw this cake, I immediately thought I would try to make it myself, and indeed here is my little recipe!

I am happy to have made this tart that celebrates the tradition of Parma because having lived there, a piece of my heart remains there. 😊

If you’ve never tried it, it’s time to get to work: I guarantee it will be love at first bite! 😄🍰

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  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Cost: Economical
  • Rest time: 1 Hour 30 Minutes
  • Preparation time: 30 Minutes
  • Cooking methods: Oven, Stove
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Seasonality: All seasons

Ingredients

  • 2 1/2 cups flour
  • 7 oz butter
  • 2 eggs
  • 7/16 cup sugar
  • lemon zest
  • 1 lb ricotta
  • 7/16 cup sugar
  • 4 egg yolks
  • 1/4 cup potato starch
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • 5 oz dark chocolate
  • 2/3 cup heavy cream
  • 3/4 oz butter
  • 1 teaspoon acacia honey

Tools

  • Removable bottom cake pan
  • Stainless steel pots
  • cutting board
  • dark chocolate

Steps

Here’s the procedure:

  • To prepare the Susanna Cake, start with the shortcrust pastry: in a bowl, mix the softened butter
    with the lemon zest and sugar

  • Add the flour and knead quickly. Wrap the shortcrust pastry in a sheet of plastic wrap and keep it in the fridge for an hour.

  • In the meantime, prepare the ricotta cream. Combine the ricotta with sugar and egg yolks in a bowl and mix well. Add the potato starch and vanilla.

  • Roll out the shortcrust pastry and place it inside a greased and floured cake pan. Poke it with a fork to prevent it from rising during baking.

  • Add the ricotta cream and bake in a ventilated oven at 356°F for about 45 minutes. Once cooked, let it cool completely.

  • Prepare the glaze for the Susanna Cake: in a small pot, add the cream with butter and honey and heat.

  • Chop the dark chocolate.
    Add the hot cream and melt the chocolate by stirring with a whisk or spatula until you get a smooth and shiny glaze. Pour over the cooled Susanna Cake and level well.

  • Before serving, keep in the fridge for at least an hour so that the glaze sets.

  • Enjoy your meal! 😄

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cucinamica

Simple recipes from Italian cuisine, from appetizers to desserts.

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