Explore the joy of baking Fiadone, a traditional dessert that captivates with its simplicity and delightful flavors. This recipe combines the creamy texture of Broccio or Ricotta cheese with the aromatic zest of organic lemons, creating a cake that is both light and richly flavored. Perfect for those who appreciate a dessert that is not overly sweet but is deeply satisfying.
Why You'll Love This Recipe: Fiadone offers a unique taste experience that stands apart from more typical desserts. The use of Broccio or Ricotta cheese provides a wonderfully smooth texture, while the lemon zest adds a refreshing citrus burst that cuts through the richness of the cheese. This cake is easy to prepare and serves as a wonderful conclusion to any meal or as a splendid treat with afternoon tea.
Perfect Occasion: This cake is perfectly suited for celebrations, especially during spring and summer when lighter desserts are favored. It's also ideal for festive occasions such as Easter and Mother’s Day, or any gathering where a sophisticated yet understated dessert is desired. Additionally, Fiadone makes a great addition to a brunch menu, offering a sweet counterpart to savory dishes.
Decoration Tips: For a simple yet elegant presentation, dust the cooled Fiadone with powdered sugar. Garnish with fresh lemon slices or a few edible flowers for a touch of color. Serve each slice with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of honey to enhance its natural flavors.
Ingredients:
- 6 medium eggs
- 250g sugar
- 500g Broccio cheese, well-drained (substitute with Ricotta if unavailable)
- Zest of 2 large organic lemons
1. Preheat and Prepare:
- Set your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a 19 cm (7.5-inch) round baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Mix Eggs and Sugar:
- In a sizable bowl, vigorously beat the eggs with the sugar until the mixture turns pale and attains a creamy consistency.
3. Incorporate the Cheese:
- With a fork, mash the Broccio cheese to eliminate any large chunks, then gradually blend it into the egg and sugar mixture until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
4. Add Lemon Zest:
- Stir in the zest of 2 large organic lemons, ensuring it is evenly distributed throughout the batter.
5. Bake the Cake:
- Transfer the batter to the prepared baking pan. Gently tap the pan on a surface to release any air bubbles.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes. The cake should turn golden brown and set, though the center might still be slightly wobbly.
6. Cooling and Setting:
- Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan. Optionally, you can cover the cake with plastic wrap while it is still warm to lock in moisture.
- For best results, refrigerate the cooled cake for at least 5-6 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up.
Enjoy this delightful lemon and cheese cake, a celebration of simple yet elegant flavors that come together to create a wonderfully refreshing dessert. Bon appétit!