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Ricotta Cheese Recipe Ricotta Cheese Recipe

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Ricotta Cheese Recipe

I made creamy ricotta with just milk, cream, salt, and lemon juice. Heat, mix, strain, and voila! Fresh, homemade ricotta ready to elevate any dish. So simple, so delicious!

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Making your own ricotta cheese at home is a game-changer. It's incredibly simple, and the taste is worlds apart from store-bought. With just a few basic ingredients, you can whip up a creamy, fresh batch that's perfect for lasagna, desserts, or just spreading on toast. Let's dive into this easy, rewarding process and elevate your cooking game with homemade ricotta.

Ricotta Cheese Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 4 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 3 tbsp lemon juice

Instructions:

  1. In a large pot, combine milk, cream, and salt. Heat over medium until the mixture reaches 190°F.
  2. Remove from heat and add lemon juice. Stir gently and let sit for 5 minutes.
  3. Line a strainer with cheesecloth and place over a large bowl. Pour the mixture into the strainer and let drain for about 20 minutes.
  4. Transfer the ricotta to a bowl and use immediately or store in the refrigerator.

What You Will Need

H2: What you will need to make ricotta cheese

  • Whole milk: Provides the creamy base essential for the texture and flavor of the ricotta.
  • Heavy cream: Adds richness and smoothness, making the ricotta extra creamy.
  • Lemon juice: Acts as a coagulant, helping to separate the curds from the whey.

Essential Tools and Instruments

What tools/instruments will be needed to make ricotta cheese

  • Large pot: Needed to heat milk and cream to the right temperature without overflowing.
  • Thermometer: Ensures the mixture reaches the precise 190°F required for curd formation.
  • Cheesecloth: Strains the curds from the whey, giving the ricotta its creamy texture.
  • Strainer: Holds the cheesecloth and allows whey to drain away from the curds.
  • Large bowl: Catches the whey as it drains, keeping the kitchen mess-free.
ricotta-cheese-recipe

Ricotta Cheese Recipe

Homemade ricotta cheese is simple to make and tastes much better than store-bought.
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Prep Time 10 mins
Cook Time 30 mins
Total Time 40 mins
Course Appetizer, Side Dish
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 servings
Calories 200 kcal

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Cheesecloth
  • Strainer

Ingredients:  

Main Ingredients

  • 4 cups Whole milk
  • 1 cup Heavy cream
  • 1/2 tsp Salt
  • 3 tbsp Lemon juice

Instructions: 

  • 1. In a large pot, combine milk, cream, and salt. Heat over medium heat until the mixture reaches 190°F.
  • 2. Remove from heat and add lemon juice. Stir gently and let sit for 5 minutes.
  • 3. Line a strainer with cheesecloth and place over a large bowl. Pour the mixture into the strainer and let drain for about 20 minutes.
  • 4. Transfer the ricotta to a bowl and use immediately or store in the refrigerator.

Notes:

Use fresh whole milk for the best results. The ricotta can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutrition value:

Calories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 6gProtein: 10gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 200mgSugar: 6gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 0.2mg

Keywords:

Keyword Cheese, Homemade
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Make Ahead and Freezing Tips

Make Ahead Instructions

  1. Prepare ricotta as directed.
  2. Let it cool to room temperature.
  3. Store in an airtight container.
  4. Refrigerate for up to 5 days.

Freezing Instructions

  1. Place ricotta in a freezer-safe container.
  2. Label with the date.
  3. Freeze for up to 2 months.
  4. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before using.

Using lemon juice instead of vinegar in this ricotta cheese recipe gives it a milder, more pleasant flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ:
How long does homemade ricotta last?
Homemade ricotta lasts about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Can I use low-fat milk instead of whole milk?
Yes, but the texture and flavor will be less rich.
What can I use instead of lemon juice?
White vinegar works as a substitute for lemon juice.
Do I need to use cheesecloth?
Cheesecloth helps drain the whey, but a clean kitchen towel can work too.
Can I freeze homemade ricotta?
Freezing changes the texture, so it's best used fresh.

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