Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsRuffino's On The RiverItalian Cheesecake Recipe

Italian Cheesecake Recipe

Time2h
Serves8

Cream Cheese and Ricotta Cheesecake, Graham Cracker Crust, Sweetened Sour Cream Glaze

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Ingredients

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Crust

Sour Cream Glaze

Method

Crust

  1. 1

    Prepare the Crust

    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar. Pour in the melted butter and mix until the crumbs are evenly coated.

  2. 2

    Form the Crust

    Press the graham cracker mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Use the back of a measuring cup to make it compact and even.

  3. 3

    Bake the Crust

    Place the crust in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes until lightly golden. Remove and let cool while preparing the filling.

Cheesecake Filling

  1. 4

    Mix the Cream Cheese and Ricotta

    In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the ricotta cheese and mix until well combined.

  2. 5

    Add Sugar and Flavorings

    Gradually add the granulated sugar, mixing until fully incorporated. Then add the vanilla extract and lemon zest, mixing until smooth.

  3. 6

    Incorporate the Eggs

    Add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition until just combined. Avoid overmixing.

  4. 7

    Pour into the Crust

    Pour the cheesecake filling into the cooled graham cracker crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.

  5. 8

    Bake the Cheesecake

    Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the center is set and slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside for 1 hour to cool gradually.

Sour Cream Glaze

  1. 9

    Prepare the Glaze

    In a medium bowl, combine the sour cream, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.

  2. 10

    Glaze the Cheesecake

    Spread the sour cream glaze over the top of the cheesecake once it has cooled. Smooth it out evenly.

  3. 11

    Chill the Cheesecake

    Cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, before serving.

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