Dish

Cassata

Cassata is a layered cake that is made with sponge cake, ricotta cheese, candied fruit, and a hint of liqueur. The sponge cake is soaked in liqueur and then layered with the ricotta cheese and candied fruit. The cake is then frosted with a sweetened ricotta cheese and decorated with more candied fruit. Cassata is typically served at room temperature, and it can be garnished with whipped cream or fresh fruit.

European cuisine› Mediterranean cuisine› Italian cuisine

Dessert› Cake

Origins and history

Cassata originated in Sicily in the 18th century. It was originally made with sheep's milk ricotta cheese, but over time, cow's milk ricotta cheese became the preferred choice. Today, Cassata is a popular dessert in Italy and around the world.

Dietary considerations

Cassata is not suitable for vegetarians or those who are lactose intolerant. It contains ricotta cheese and candied fruit.

Variations

There are many variations of Cassata, including those that use different types of liqueur, such as Amaretto or Limoncello. Some recipes also call for the addition of nuts, such as almonds or pistachios.

Presentation and garnishing

Cassata is a beautiful dessert that can be presented in a variety of ways. It can be garnished with fresh fruit, edible flowers, or a dusting of powdered sugar.

Tips & Tricks

When making Cassata, it is important to use high-quality ricotta cheese and fresh ingredients. The cake should be assembled just before serving to ensure that it stays fresh and does not become soggy.