Best 2 Christmas Cassata Recipes

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Indulge in a delightful culinary journey with our Christmas Cassata, a symphony of flavors and textures that will transport your taste buds to a realm of pure joy. This iconic Italian dessert features layers of moist sponge cake, creamy ricotta filling, and a rich chocolate glaze, adorned with vibrant candied fruits and shimmering sprinkles. As you delve into this article, you will embark on a delightful adventure, discovering not just one, but three enticing recipes that showcase the versatility and allure of this classic treat.

For those seeking a traditional experience, our first recipe guides you through the art of crafting an authentic Italian Cassata, using simple yet exquisite ingredients to create a masterpiece that will steal the show at any festive gathering. If you're drawn to the allure of chocolate, our second recipe takes a decadent turn, introducing a Chocolate Cassata that boasts layers of rich chocolate sponge cake and a velvety chocolate filling, topped with a luscious chocolate ganache.

And for those who prefer a gluten-free indulgence, our third recipe offers a delightful Gluten-Free Cassata, ensuring that everyone can partake in this festive tradition. With its delicate almond sponge cake and smooth ricotta filling, this variation promises an equally tantalizing experience without compromising on flavor or texture.

So, don your apron, gather your ingredients, and prepare to embark on a culinary adventure that will leave you and your loved ones spellbound. Let the sweet melodies of Christmas Cassata fill your kitchen and hearts this holiday season.

Here are our top 2 tried and tested recipes!

CASSATA RUSTICA



Cassata Rustica image

Provided by Food Network

Categories     dessert

Time 1h15m

Yield 8 to 10 servings

Number Of Ingredients 8

2 pounds 3 1/4 ounces/1 kg fresh ricotta cheese
7 ounces/200 g semisweet chocolate, chopped
7 ounces/200 g candied fruit, such as oranges, chopped
5 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 store-bought pie shell, baked and cooled in pie plate
Sponge cake, sliced, or savoiardi cookies (ladyfinger cookies)
1/2 cup rum
3 tablespoons icing sugar

Steps:

  • Mix together the ricotta, chocolate, candied fruit and 4 tablespoons of the granulated sugar in a mixing bowl, and then spread evenly into the pie crust. Lay slices of sponge cake on top of the filling close to the crust. Heat 1/2 cup water in a saucepot, and then remove from the heat and stir in the remaining 1 tablespoon granulated sugar and the rum. Lightly coat the sponge cake with the rum water using a pastry brush. Place a plate on top of the cake and then invert and sprinkle with the icing sugar. Refrigerate 1 hour and serve.

CHRISTMAS CASSATA



Christmas Cassata image

Looking for a Christmas dessert? Then check out this Italian-inspired cassata layered with chocolate.

Provided by Betty Crocker Kitchens

Categories     Dessert

Time 3h10m

Yield 16

Number Of Ingredients 8

1/3 cup currants or raisins
1 can (16 1/2 ounces) pitted dark sweet cherries, drained and syrup reserved
1 container (15 ounces) ricotta cheese
1/2 cup Cool Whip frozen whipped topping, thawed
6 tablespoons sweet Marsala wine or orange juice
1 loaf (16 ounces) pound cake
1 bag (12 ounces) semisweet chocolate chips (2 cups)
1 cup firm butter or margarine, cut into pieces

Steps:

  • Place currants and 3 tablespoons of reserved cherry syrup in small bowl; reserve 1/2 cup cherry syrup. Let stand about 15 minutes or until currants are softened; drain. Coarsely chop cherries; set aside.
  • Place ricotta cheese, whipped topping and 3 tablespoons of the wine in food processor or blender. Cover and process until smooth. Transfer to medium bowl; fold in cherries and currants.
  • Cut pound cake horizontally into 3 layers. Place bottom layer on serving dish. Spread with half of the ricotta mixture. Add middle cake layer. Spread with remaining ricotta mixture. Add top cake layer. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate about 2 hours or until ricotta mixture is firm.
  • Melt chocolate chips in 2-quart saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently. Stir in remaining 3 tablespoons wine and reserved 1/2 cup cherry syrup until smooth; remove from heat. Beat in butter, a few pieces at a time, using wire whisk, until melted. Refrigerate about 45 minutes or until thick enough to spread. Spread chocolate mixture over top and sides of dessert. Store covered in refrigerator.

Nutrition Facts : ServingSize 1 Serving

Tips:

  • Make the candied fruit ahead of time. This will give the fruit time to absorb the sugar syrup and develop a more intense flavor.
  • Use high-quality ricotta cheese. This is the main ingredient in cassata, so it's important to use a good one. Look for ricotta that is creamy and smooth, with no lumps.
  • Don't overmix the ricotta mixture. Overmixing can make the ricotta mixture dense and grainy. Mix it just until the ingredients are well combined.
  • Chill the cassata for at least 4 hours before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld and the cake to set.
  • Garnish the cassata with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or chopped nuts before serving. This will add a festive touch and make the cake even more delicious.

Conclusion:

Sicilian Cassata is a classic Italian dessert that is perfect for any special occasion. With its layers of sponge cake, creamy ricotta filling, and candied fruit, it is sure to be a hit with everyone. Following these tips will help you make the best cassata possible. Buon Appetito!

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