No Crust Ricotta Cheesecake

1. 1

   Preheat the oven to 325 degrees. Coat the inside of a 9-inch springform pan with cooking spray.

2. 2

   Place the ricotta cheese in a strainer set over a bowl and let stand for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, to drain off excess moisture.

3. 3

   Place the egg whites in a large mixing bowl and beat on high speed with an electric mixer fitted with a whisk attachment until the whites just hold stiff peaks. Do not overwhip. The whites should look smooth, not grainy.

4. 4

   Combine the egg yolks and granulated sugar in another large mixing bowl and beat on high speed until pale yellow, about 5 minutes. Stir in the ricotta, vanilla, lemon zest, cinnamon, and nutmeg until just combined. Fold the egg whites into the ricotta mixture with a rubber spatula. Place the prepared springform pan on a baking sheet and pour in the filling.

5. 5

   Bake the cheesecake until it is deep golden brown and pulling away from the sides of the pan, about 1 hour and 20 minutes. As soon as the cake is out of the oven, run a sharp paring knife around the edge of the pan to separate the cheesecake from the sides of the pan. Transfer the pan to a wire rack and let the cheesecake cool completely. Cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate it until serving, at least 6 hour and up to 1 day.

6. 6

   Before serving, remove the sides of the pan and dust with confectioners' sugar. Makes 8 to 10 servings.

7. 7

   Mom's Big Book of Baking.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.