
Elizabeth, NJ—
Atalanta is thrilled to introduce four irresistible additions to the IL Villaggio cheese portfolio: Pear & Chocolate Chip, Cappuccino, Honey Cinnamon, and Chocolate Caramel Baked Ricottas. These new varieties build on the success of the beloved lemon flavor launched in 2024 and feature-rich, lightly sweetened ricotta baked to golden perfection. Each dessert cheese blends authentic Italian flavor with modern indulgence—offering a fresh, elevated take on traditional Sicilian-style recipes.
IL Villaggio’s line of baked ricotta dessert cheeses starts with fresh whey from local milk, the essential base for the ricotta. The traditional combination of sweet cow’s milk whey and local sheep’s milk lends the cheeses their complex flavor. Each batch of ricotta is stirred and collected by hand in a gentle process that preserves its delicate texture. In a family-owned, family-operated cheesemaking facility nestled in the hills of Mount Etna, this luscious ricotta reaches new heights when combined with sugar and rich flavors. Slowly baked, the resulting dessert cheeses attain an ethereal, creamy texture.
“These baked ricottas combine artisanal techniques with innovative flavors to create cheeses that are both comforting and crave-worthy, says Regan Murray, Business Development Manager at Atalanta. “They’re striking, aromatic, and versatile—equally at home on a cheese board, as a satisfying dessert, or as the star addition to a brunch spread.”
Available to Pre-order Now! For more information or to request samples, please get in touch with your Atalanta Sales Representative or visit atalantacorp.com/contact-us.
PEAR & CHOCOLATE CHIP
Aromatic and indulgent, this variety combines fluffy ricotta with bits of candied pear and dark chocolate chips. A golden crust and a light, sweet interior make it a beautiful finish to any meal.
Serve it: Stuffed into French toast, on cannoli chips, or alongside poached pears with syrup.
CAPPUCCINO
Infused with smooth Italian coffee, this is a tiramisu-inspired dream. The baked finish illuminates the color and depth of the subtle espresso flavor.
Serve it: Drizzled with dark chocolate, topped with mascarpone, or warmed on a croissant.
HONEY CINNAMON
This flavor channels nostalgic warmth with its blend of floral honey and the ideal level of fragrant cinnamon. It is soft, spiced, and versatile.
Serve it: With caramel-pecan sauce, between oatmeal cookies, or with aged cheese on a fall cheeseboard.
CHOCOLATE CARAMEL
Dark chocolate chips punctuate a luscious caramel-infused, sliceable baked ricotta. It’s refined enough for a dinner party but as approachable as a candy store favorite.
Serve it: Over vanilla ice cream, brûléed with sugar, or Amarena cherries.