Smoked Lemon-Ricotta Cake

This smoked lemon-ricotta cake is light and fluffy with a hint of smoky flavor that takes it to the next level. The ricotta keeps it moist, while the lemon adds a fresh, tangy brightness. Perfect for an outdoor gathering or as a unique dessert option, it’s a cake that’s sure to impress!

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

• 1 ½ cup sugar

• 1 tbsp lemon zest (from about 3 lemons)

• 1 tsp baking powder

• ½ tsp baking soda

• ½ tsp salt

• 3 large eggs

• 1 cup ricotta cheese (whole milk for best texture)

• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

• ⅓ cup fresh lemon juice

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)

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 9-inch round cake pan (or springform pan) 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, lemon zest, lemon juice, vanilla extract 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 fresh berries: This cake pairs beautifully with raspberries, blueberries, or a dollop of whipped cream.

This smoked lemon-ricotta cake is soft, citrusy, and with just a touch of smokiness – a delicious dessert made even better with the Traeger!

Enjoy!