Method
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
Grease the 9-inch round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Melt the White Chocolate
In a double boiler, melt the chopped white chocolate over simmering water, stirring occasionally until smooth. Alternatively, you can melt it in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
Step 3: Prepare the Ricotta Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, granulated sugar, and melted white chocolate.
Use an electric mixer or whisk to beat until well combined and smooth.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Dry Ingredients
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt, then gradually add to the ricotta mixture, mixing until just combined.
Stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a rubber spatula.
Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the cake is set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Once baked, remove from the oven and let it stand in the pan for 15 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
Step 6: Serve
Allow the cake to cool completely before serving.
Dust with powdered sugar and garnish with fresh berries or mint leaves if desired.
Variations
Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
Chocolate Lovers: Mix in some chocolate chips or use dark chocolate instead of white.
Fruit Addition: Fold in some finely chopped fruit like strawberries or raspberries for added flavor.