Smoked Desserts: Maple, Orange Ricotta Cakes

Here’s an updated recipe for Smoked Maple, Orange Ricotta Cakes, inspired by the original Smoked Lemon Ricotta Cakes. The orange adds a sweet, vibrant flavor, and the vanilla and maple syrup bring warmth and depth.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup ricotta cheese

• 2 large eggs

• 1/3 cup granulated sugar

• Zest of 1 large orange

• 2 tbsp fresh orange juice

• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

• 1/2 tsp maple syrup

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

• 1/2 tsp baking powder

• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Preheat the Traeger: Set your Traeger or pellet grill to 425°F and use a mild wood like apple or cherry for a gentle smoky flavor. Preheat with the lid closed for about 15 minutes.

2. Prepare the pan: Grease a muffin tin or mini loaf tin and line the bottom with parchment paper for easy release.

3. Mix the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

4. Mix the wet ingredients: In a large bowl, first whisk together the sugar and butter. Followed by ricotta, orange zest, Orange juice, vanilla extract, maple syrup, and finally eggs stirring until smooth.

5. Combine wet and dry ingredients: Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and gently fold them together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix – a few lumps are fine!

6. Pour into the pan: Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.

7. Bake on the Traeger: Place the pan on the preheated Traeger and bake for 40-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should be golden and spring back lightly when touched.

8. Cool and serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar before serving, if desired.

Tips

• Serve with vanilla ice cream for a dessert the whole family will love!

Enjoy the warm notes of orange, vanilla, and maple syrup with a hint of smokiness in these delightful ricotta cakes!