No, ricotta cheese is not traditionally used in German cheesecake. German cheesecake, also known as "Käsekuchen," is a different type of cheesecake compared to its American counterpart.
In German cheesecake, the main ingredient used for the creamy filling is quark (pronounced "kvark"). Quark is a fresh and creamy cheese commonly found in Central European countries, including Germany. It has a smooth texture and slightly tangy flavor, similar to a combination of yogurt and cream cheese.
The use of quark gives German cheesecake its distinct taste and texture, setting it apart from other types of cheesecakes. Additionally, German cheesecake typically has a more delicate and less sweet flavor than American cheesecakes.
While ricotta is not a traditional ingredient in German cheesecake, you might find variations or modern adaptations that use it or combine it with quark. However, for an authentic German cheesecake experience, using quark as the main cheese ingredient is recommended. If you can't find quark in your local stores, you can try to make it at home or search for German specialty shops that might carry it.