Indulge in the creamy, dreamy world of sweet ricotta recipes! This beloved Italian ingredient has been a staple in many a dessert recipe for centuries. And why not? Ricotta’s silky texture and mild flavor make it the perfect canvas for a wide range of sweet treats.
From classic cheesecakes to innovative desserts like stuffed French toast and phyllo rolls, we’ve got 18 decadent sweet ricotta recipes that will satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and fluffy or rich and indulgent, these recipes are sure to impress. So go ahead, get creative, and let the sweet ricotta magic begin!
Stay tuned for our featured recipe, Sweet Ricotta and Honey Stuffed Figs – a sweet and savory treat that will make your taste buds sing.
Sweet Ricotta and Honey Stuffed Figs
This sweet and savory recipe combines the natural sweetness of figs with the creamy richness of ricotta cheese, topped off with a drizzle of warm honey. Perfect as an appetizer or dessert, these bite-sized treats are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 12 fresh figs
– 8 oz ricotta cheese
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the stems off the figs and slice them in half lengthwise.
3. In a bowl, mix together ricotta cheese, honey, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
4. Stuff each fig half with about 1 tsp of the ricotta mixture.
5. Place the stuffed figs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the cheese is lightly browned and warm.
7. Drizzle with additional honey, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lemon Ricotta Pancakes with Blueberry Compote
Brighten up your breakfast or brunch with these fluffy Lemon Ricotta Pancakes, served with a sweet and tangy Blueberry Compote. This recipe combines the creamy richness of ricotta cheese with the brightness of lemon zest and juice, all wrapped in a delicate pancake wrapper.
Ingredients:
For the pancakes:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons ricotta cheese
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon grated lemon zest
For the compote:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons water
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, combine milk, eggs, ricotta cheese, lemon juice, and zest. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Cook pancakes for 2-3 minutes or until bubbles appear on surface.
6. Serve with Blueberry Compote (simmer blueberries, sugar, and water over low heat until syrupy).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ricotta Cheesecake with Raspberry Swirl
Elevate your dessert game with this creamy ricotta cheesecake, swirled with a sweet and tangy raspberry filling. Perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz ricotta cheese
– 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– Confectioners’ sugar (for dusting)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Prepare crust by mixing crumbs, sugar, and melted butter.
2. Beat ricotta cheese until smooth. Add sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract; mix well.
3. Pour cheesecake batter into a springform pan. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until set.
4. Meanwhile, puree raspberries with 1 tablespoon sugar and 1 tablespoon heavy cream. Swirl mixture over cheesecake after baking.
5. Allow cheesecake to cool completely before serving. Dust with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cannoli Dip with Sweet Ricotta and Chocolate Chips
Sweet Cannoli Dip with Ricotta and Chocolate Chips Recipe
This rich and creamy dip is a unique twist on the classic Italian dessert. Perfect for parties, gatherings, or just a sweet treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 (16 oz) container of sweetened ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– Whipped cream and chopped pistachios for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
2. Fold in the chocolate chips until well combined.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, sprinkle confectioners’ sugar over the top of the dip.
5. Serve chilled with whipped cream and chopped pistachios if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (including chilling time)
Ricotta and Almond Stuffed French Toast
Elevate your breakfast game with this sweet and savory twist on classic French toast. The creamy ricotta filling, crunchy almonds, and maple syrup drizzle will make it a weekend morning staple.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread (preferably Challah or brioche)
– 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Maple syrup, for serving
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together ricotta cheese and sugar until smooth.
2. Add sliced almonds to the ricotta mixture and mix well.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Dip each bread slice into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly.
5. Place coated bread slices on a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
6. Stuff cooked French toast with ricotta-almond filling.
7. Serve warm with maple syrup drizzle and confectioners’ sugar dusting (if desired).
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sweet Ricotta and Berry Parfait
Elevate your dessert game with this sweet and satisfying parfait, combining creamy ricotta cheese with fresh berries and crunchy cookies. Perfect for warm weather or anytime you need a light and lovely treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 1/4 cup granola or cookie crumbs
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese and honey. Mix until smooth.
2. Cut the strawberries into bite-sized pieces and add to the ricotta mixture.
3. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the ricotta-strawberry mixture into a glass or parfait dish.
4. Top with a layer of berries (about 1/4 cup).
5. Sprinkle a tablespoon of granola or cookie crumbs over the berries.
6. Repeat steps 3-5 until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of ricotta on top.
7. Drizzle lemon juice over the parfait and serve chilled.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Ricotta Chocolate Chip Cookies
Elevate your cookie game with the creamy addition of ricotta cheese and semi-sweet chocolate chips. These chewy treats are perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar.
3. In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
5. Fold in chocolate chips.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Orange Ricotta Pound Cake
Orange Ricotta Pound Cake: A moist and flavorful cake infused with the brightness of orange zest and the creaminess of ricotta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
– 1/4 cup (60g) ricotta cheese
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 tbsp orange zest
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, eggs, milk, ricotta cheese, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Add orange zest and whisk until combined.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Sweet Ricotta and Pistachio Phyllo Rolls
A deliciously sweet and nutty pastry perfect for a snack or dessert. These flaky phyllo rolls filled with creamy ricotta and crunchy pistachios are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh pistachios
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing phyllo)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Thaw phyllo dough according to package instructions.
3. In a bowl, mix together ricotta cheese and granulated sugar until smooth.
4. Add chopped pistachios to the ricotta mixture and stir until combined.
5. Lay a sheet of phyllo dough on a flat surface. Brush with beaten egg.
6. Place about 1/4 cup of the ricotta-pistachio mixture along the center of the phyllo, leaving a 1-inch border on either side.
7. Fold the sides over the filling, then roll into a neat cylinder. Repeat with remaining dough and filling.
8. Place rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
9. Dust with confectioners’ sugar (if desired) before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ricotta-Stuffed Crepes with Caramelized Bananas
Elevate your brunch game with these delicate crepes filled with a creamy ricotta mixture and topped with sweet caramelized bananas. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy Sunday morning.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 eggs
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 ripe bananas, sliced
– Caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, eggs, milk, and salt until smooth.
2. Heat a small non-stick pan over medium heat. Pour in a small amount of batter and tilt to evenly coat the surface.
3. Cook for 1-2 minutes, then flip and cook for another minute.
4. Fill crepes with ricotta mixture (mix ricotta, sugar, and melted butter) and top with caramelized bananas (cook sliced bananas in a pan with butter and sugar until golden brown).
5. Drizzle with additional caramel sauce and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Ricotta Muffins with Streusel Topping
These moist and flavorful muffins combine the brightness of lemon zest with the creaminess of ricotta cheese, topped with a crunchy streusel topping for added texture.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– Streusel Topping (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, ricotta cheese, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Top with Streusel Topping (see below).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Streusel Topping:
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Combine dry ingredients in a bowl. Add cold butter and use fingers to work into a crumbly mixture.
Sweet Ricotta and Cherry Tart
This sweet and tangy tart combines the creaminess of ricotta cheese with the natural sweetness of cherries, perfect for a warm weather dessert or a special occasion treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 12 oz (340g) ricotta cheese
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 1 cup (120g) fresh cherries, pitted
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
2. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Stir until smooth.
3. Spread the ricotta mixture evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Arrange cherries on top of the ricotta mixture, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Fold the edges of the pastry up over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
6. Brush with heavy cream and sprinkle with sugar.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Ricotta and Dark Chocolate Semifreddo
This recipe combines the creamy texture of ricotta cheese with the deep flavor of dark chocolate, creating a unique and indulgent semifreddo that’s perfect for warm weather.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 ounces high-quality dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa), finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Whipped cream and chocolate shavings for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together ricotta cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
2. Melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Remove from heat and stir in chopped dark chocolate until melted and smooth.
3. Fold the chocolate mixture into the ricotta mixture until well combined.
4. Pour the mixture into an 8-inch square baking dish or a 9×13-inch rectangular dish. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
5. Just before serving, whip heavy cream to desired consistency. Top the semifreddo with whipped cream and chocolate shavings, if desired.
Cooking Time: 4 hours or overnight
Honey Ricotta Toast with Fresh Figs
Savor the sweetness of summer with this elegant Honey Ricotta Toast with Fresh Figs recipe. Perfect as a light breakfast or a delightful afternoon snack, this sweet and savory treat is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
– 8 oz ricotta cheese
– 2 tbsp honey
– 4 fresh figs, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese and honey until smooth.
3. Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Spread about 1-2 tbsp of the ricotta-honey mixture onto each slice.
5. Top each slice with a few slices of fresh figs.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is lightly toasted and the figs are caramelized.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sweet Ricotta and Apple Galette
Sweet Ricotta and Apple Galette Recipe
This sweet and tangy galette is a perfect dessert for fall, featuring caramelized apples, creamy ricotta cheese, and a flaky pastry crust. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create this show-stopping treat in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks unsalted butter, cold
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
– 2-3 apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled and sliced
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the pastry dough on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
2. In a bowl, whisk together ricotta cheese, confectioners’ sugar, and salt. Arrange apple slices on one half of the dough, leaving a 1-inch border.
3. Spread the ricotta mixture over the apples. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling, pressing edges to seal.
4. Brush with honey and cut a few slits in the top for steam to escape.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Ricotta Panna Cotta with Mixed Berries
This creamy dessert combines the richness of ricotta panna cotta with the sweetness and tartness of mixed berries, perfect for a warm weather treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1 tablespoon unflavored gelatin
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle gelatin over 1/4 cup cold water and let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, cream, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
3. Remove from heat and add the gelatin mixture. Stir until the gelatin is fully dissolved.
4. Let the mixture cool to room temperature. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
5. Spoon the panna cotta into individual serving cups or a large serving dish. Top with mixed berries. Garnish with fresh mint leaves.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Cinnamon Ricotta Coffee Cake
Start your day with a sweet and satisfying treat that combines the creaminess of ricotta cheese with the warmth of cinnamon. This coffee cake is perfect for breakfast or brunch, and its crumbly topping will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine softened butter, ricotta cheese, eggs, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and top with crumbly topping (see below).
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Crumbly Topping:
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Mix until crumbly. Sprinkle over coffee cake before baking.
Sweet Ricotta and Pear Crostata
This rustic Italian-inspired dessert combines the creamy richness of sweet ricotta cheese with the tender sweetness of fresh pears, all wrapped up in a buttery pastry crust. Perfect for a cozy evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) whole milk ricotta cheese
– 2 ripe Bartlett pears, peeled and sliced into thin wedges
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3mm).
3. Arrange the pear slices in a single layer, leaving a 1-inch (2.5cm) border around the edges.
4. Spread the sweetened ricotta cheese evenly over the pears.
5. Fold the pastry edges up and over the filling to form a crostata shape.
6. Dot the top with butter and sprinkle with a pinch of salt.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Ricotta lovers rejoice! This collection of 18 sweet ricotta recipes will satisfy your cravings for creamy, dreamy treats. From decadent desserts like Ricotta Cheesecake with Raspberry Swirl and Sweet Ricotta and Cherry Tart, to breakfast favorites like Ricotta and Almond Stuffed French Toast and Lemon Ricotta Pancakes with Blueberry Compote, these recipes showcase the versatility of sweet ricotta. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic or creative, there’s a recipe here to indulge your sweet tooth.
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