3 Ingredient Lemon Ricotta Tray Cake

This 3 ingredient lemon ricotta tray cake is a light, fluffy, and citrusy dessert made with minimal effort. Perfect for quick baking, it combines creamy ricotta with tangy lemon curd for a soft and delicious cake.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This 3 ingredient lemon ricotta tray cake is incredibly easy and beginner-friendly. With just three ingredients, it delivers a moist texture and bright lemon flavor. It’s perfect for last-minute desserts, afternoon tea, or a quick sweet treat for the family.

Ingredients

Fluffy lemon dessert slice with visible swirls and moist texture.
Quick lemon dessert
  • 375g pancake shake mix
  • 160g lemon curd
  • 120g smooth ricotta

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 190°C (170°C fan). Grease a 23 x 28 cm baking tray.
  2. Prepare the pancake mix according to package instructions.
  3. Pour the batter into the prepared tray.
  4. Spoon lemon curd evenly over the batter.
  5. Mix ricotta with 1–2 tablespoons of water to loosen it.
  6. Spoon ricotta over the lemon curd.
  7. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the mixture.
  8. Bake for 20 minutes or until set.
  9. Turn on the grill and cook for 1–2 minutes until the top is golden.
  10. Remove and serve immediately.

This 3 ingredient lemon ricotta tray cake is best enjoyed warm with its soft, creamy texture.

Easy lemon tray cake with ricotta and lemon curd baked until golden.
Fluffy citrus tray bake

Tips & Tricks

  • Do not over-swirl to keep distinct layers
  • Use high-quality lemon curd for best flavor
  • Loosen ricotta slightly for smoother texture
  • Watch closely under the grill to avoid burning
  • Serve warm for the best taste

Details

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 22 minutes
  • Total Time: 32 minutes
  • Yield: 6–8 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: European-inspired
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Dietary Notes: Vegetarian
Close-up of soft lemon ricotta cake showing creamy texture and citrus layers.
Simple 3 ingredient lemon cake

Notes

  • Add lemon zest for extra citrus flavor
  • Dust with powdered sugar before serving
  • Serve with whipped cream or berries
  • Use vanilla pancake mix for added sweetness

Nutrition (Approximate)

  • Calories: 250 kcal
  • Protein: 6g
  • Carbs: 30g
  • Fat: 10g

FAQ

Can I use homemade pancake batter?
Yes, but keep the consistency similar to packaged mix.

Can I make it ahead of time?
It’s best served fresh, but can be reheated.

What can I use instead of ricotta?
Cream cheese or mascarpone works well.

Why is my cake not fluffy?
Avoid overmixing and ensure proper baking time.

Can I add fruit?
Yes, berries work beautifully with lemon flavor.

Storage

  • Fridge: Store up to 2 days in an airtight container
  • Freezer: Not recommended
  • Reheat: Warm slightly before serving
3 ingredient lemon ricotta tray cake with golden top and swirls of lemon curd.
Easy lemon ricotta tray cake

Similar Recipes

3 ingredient lemon ricotta tray cake

3 ingredient lemon ricotta tray cake is quick and easy.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine European-Inspired

Ingredients
  

  • 375 g pancake shake mix
  • 160 g lemon curd
  • 120 g smooth ricotta

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 190°C (170°C fan). Grease a 23 x 28 cm baking tray.
  • Prepare the pancake mix according to package instructions.
  • Pour the batter into the prepared tray.
  • Spoon lemon curd evenly over the batter.
  • Mix ricotta with 1–2 tablespoons of water to loosen it.
  • Spoon ricotta over the lemon curd.
  • Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the mixture.
  • Bake for 20 minutes or until set.
  • Turn on the grill and cook for 1–2 minutes until the top is golden.
  • Remove and serve immediately.
  • This 3 ingredient lemon ricotta tray cake is best enjoyed warm with its soft, creamy texture.

Notes

  • Add lemon zest for extra citrus flavor
  • Dust with powdered sugar before serving
  • Serve with whipped cream or berries
  • Use vanilla pancake mix for added sweetness

 

Conclusion

This 3 ingredient lemon ricotta tray cake is proof that simple recipes can be incredibly delicious. With its soft texture and bright citrus flavor, it’s a quick dessert you’ll want to make again and again.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe Rating