Are you ready to indulge in a world of creamy, dreamy delights? Look no further! Ricotta cheese is often overlooked as a simple ingredient for savory dishes like lasagna and ravioli. But today, we’re shining the spotlight on its sweeter side. Whether you’re looking for a decadent dessert or a sweet treat to brighten up your morning, these 18 delicious sweet ricotta recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
From classic cheesecakes to innovative twists like stuffed French toast and cannoli, our roundup has something for everyone. And the best part? These recipes use ricotta in ways you never thought possible – as a topping for pancakes, as a filling for crepes, or even as a base for a show-stopping tart.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the sweetest corners of Italy and beyond, featuring recipes that will delight your taste buds and leave you wanting more. So go ahead, get creative with ricotta, and let the sweetness begin!
Sweet Ricotta Cheesecake with Berry Compote
Sweet Ricotta Cheesecake with Berry Compote Recipe
Treat your taste buds to a creamy and indulgent dessert by combining the richness of ricotta cheese with the sweetness of berries.
Ingredients:
For the cheesecake:
– 16 oz (450g) ricotta cheese
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs, separated
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 12-inch (30cm) springform pan
For the berry compote:
– 1 cup (120g) mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 2 tbsp granulated sugar
– 2 tbsp water
– 1 tbsp honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, sugar, egg yolks, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg whites until stiff peaks form. Fold into the ricotta mixture until combined.
4. Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until set.
5. Meanwhile, combine berries, sugar, water, and honey in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat until berries release their juice and compote thickens.
6. Let cheesecake cool completely before serving with warm berry compote.
Cooking time: 1 hour (cheesecake), 15-20 minutes (berry compote)
Ricotta and Honey Stuffed French Toast
Elevate your breakfast game with this sweet and satisfying treat. This recipe combines the creaminess of ricotta cheese, the sweetness of honey, and the crunch of toasted bread for a delightful twist on traditional French toast.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread (preferably challah or brioche)
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup milk
– Butter or non-stick cooking spray for greasing
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, and vanilla extract.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
3. Dip each bread slice into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place coated bread slices on the skillet or griddle and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
5. Meanwhile, mix ricotta cheese with honey in a bowl until well combined.
6. Once French toast is cooked, spread a layer of the ricotta-honey mixture on top of each slice.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lemon Ricotta Pancakes with Maple Syrup
Start your day off right with these fluffy and flavorful pancakes infused with the brightness of lemon and the creaminess of ricotta, topped with a drizzle of pure maple syrup.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– Maple syrup, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, ricotta cheese, and lemon juice.
3. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
5. Drop 1/4 cupfuls of batter onto the skillet.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
8. Serve warm with a drizzle of maple syrup.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ricotta and Chocolate Chip Cannoli
A creative twist on the classic Italian dessert, these cannoli combine creamy ricotta cheese with dark chocolate chips for a sweet and satisfying treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 (16 oz) package of cannoli shells
– 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, chopped
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
2. Fold in the chopped chocolate chips.
3. Dip each cannoli shell into the ricotta mixture, coating the shells evenly.
4. Place the filled cannoli shells on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the filling to set.
5. Just before serving, dust the cannoli with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: None, as this is an assembled dessert. Allow 30 minutes for chilling and serving.
Sweet Ricotta and Strawberry Crepes
Start your day with a sweet and indulgent treat! These delicate crepes filled with creamy ricotta, fresh strawberries, and a hint of vanilla are the perfect breakfast or brunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup sliced strawberries
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, eggs, milk, and salt.
2. Add the melted butter and whisk until smooth.
3. Heat a small non-stick pan over medium heat. Pour in a small amount of batter and cook for 1-2 minutes or until the edges start to curl.
4. Loosen the crepe with a spatula and flip it. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Spread a tablespoon of ricotta cheese on the crepe, followed by a few sliced strawberries and a drizzle of vanilla extract.
6. Fold the crepe in half or roll it up tightly. Repeat with remaining batter and filling ingredients.
7. Serve warm dust with confectioners’ sugar if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ricotta and Almond Tart with Citrus Glaze
A refreshing twist on traditional tarts, this Ricotta and Almond Tart with Citrus Glaze is a perfect combination of creamy cheese, crunchy almonds, and tangy citrus.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 2 tablespoons orange juice
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar. Add butter; use a pastry blender or fingers to work into crumbs.
3. Press dough into a 9-inch tart pan with removable bottom. Trim edges.
4. Spread ricotta cheese over dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border. Top with sliced almonds.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until crust is golden and filling is set.
6. For citrus glaze, whisk together orange juice, granulated sugar, and honey. Brush over tart after it cools slightly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Blueberry Ricotta Muffins with Streusel Topping
These moist and flavorful muffins combine the sweetness of blueberries with the creaminess of ricotta cheese, topped with a crunchy streusel topping. Perfect for breakfast or a snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
– 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 melted butter, ricotta cheese, eggs, and milk.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Gently fold in blueberries.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
7. Top each muffin with streusel topping (see below).
Streusel Topping:
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Combine flour and sugar in a bowl. Add cold butter and use your fingers or a pastry blender to work the butter into the dry ingredients until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes.
Ricotta and Pistachio Stuffed Dates
Sweet and savory meet in this unique appetizer recipe: Ricotta and Pistachio Stuffed Dates. Soft dates filled with a creamy pistachio-infused ricotta mixture make for an irresistible combination that’s perfect for gatherings or as a special treat.
Ingredients:
– 12 pitted dates
– 8 oz ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh pistachios
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, pistachios, and honey. Mix until smooth.
3. Stuff each date with about 1-2 tablespoons of the ricotta mixture.
4. Place stuffed dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until warmed through.
6. Serve warm, garnished with additional pistachios if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sweet Ricotta and Pear Galette
Sweet Ricotta and Pear Galette: A Delicious Fall Treat
This galette combines the creaminess of sweet ricotta cheese with the sweetness of ripe pears, all wrapped up in a flaky pastry crust. Perfect for a cozy fall evening or as a brunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup sweet ricotta cheese
– 2 ripe pears (Bartlett or Anjou), peeled and sliced
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a small bowl, mix together ricotta cheese, sugar, honey, and salt.
4. Arrange pear slices in the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around.
5. Spread the ricotta mixture evenly over the pears.
6. Fold the edges of the pastry up over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
7. Brush the pastry with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown.
Ricotta and Cherry Danish Pastries
These flaky danish pastries are filled with a creamy ricotta cheese mixture and topped with sweet cherry preserves, making for a delightful breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of puff pastry, thawed
– 8 ounces ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup cherry preserves
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Confectioners’ sugar (for dusting)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a bowl, mix together ricotta cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Spoon the ricotta mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
5. Top with cherry preserves.
6. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling to form a triangle or rectangle shape.
7. Brush edges with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
9. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Vanilla Ricotta Panna Cotta with Caramel Sauce
Experience the creamy, dreamy pleasure of panna cotta infused with vanilla and ricotta, served with a rich caramel sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon kosher salt
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 8 ounces ricotta cheese
– Caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, heavy cream, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture simmers.
2. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let it steep for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Strain the mixture into a clean bowl and whisk in ricotta cheese until smooth.
4. Pour the mixture into individual serving cups or ramekins. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until set.
5. Serve chilled, drizzled with caramel sauce.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (steeping) + refrigeration time
Ricotta and Banana Bread with Walnuts
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of bananas, the creaminess of ricotta cheese, and the crunch of walnuts to create a moist and delicious bread perfect for breakfast or snack time.
Ingredients:
– 2 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flours, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add mashed bananas, ricotta cheese, walnuts, egg, and melted butter. Mix until combined.
4. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Sweet Ricotta and Fig Crostini
Sweet Ricotta and Fig Crostini: A Delightful Twist on Classic Canapés
These sweet and savory bites combine the creaminess of ricotta, the natural sweetness of figs, and the crunch of toasted baguette slices. Perfect for a quick appetizer or snack, this recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 (15 oz) container whole-milk ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint leaves
– 4-6 dried figs, stems removed and chopped
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together ricotta cheese and honey until smooth.
3. Stir in chopped mint leaves.
4. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet.
5. Top each slice with a dollop of ricotta mixture, followed by a piece of fig.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is set and the bread is toasted.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Ricotta and Chocolate Swirl Brownies
These rich and fudgy brownies combine the creaminess of ricotta cheese with the deep flavor of dark chocolate, creating a unique and irresistible treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) dark chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (60g) granulated sugar
– 3 tablespoons ricotta cheese
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking pan and line with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, melt chocolate chips in the microwave or over low heat. Stir until smooth.
4. Add butter to melted chocolate and stir until combined. Beat in eggs one at a time.
5. Stir in ricotta cheese, vanilla extract, and flour mixture until just combined.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and swirl with a knife to create a marbled effect.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Orange Ricotta Cookies with Powdered Sugar
Brighten up your day with these tender, citrusy cookies infused with the sweetness of ricotta and topped with a light dusting of powdered sugar.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
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, egg, orange zest, and orange juice. Mix until smooth.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Ricotta and Raspberry Parfait with Granola
This refreshing dessert combines the creaminess of ricotta cheese, the sweetness of fresh raspberries, and the crunch of homemade granola for a delightful treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup fresh raspberries
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup homemade or store-bought granola
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese and honey until smooth.
2. Spoon half of the ricotta mixture into a glass or parfait dish.
3. Top with fresh raspberries.
4. Sprinkle with granola.
5. Repeat the layers, finishing with granola on top.
6. Drizzle with vanilla extract, if desired.
7. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None required!
Sweet Ricotta and Apple Strudel
Sweet Ricotta and Apple Strudel Recipe
A classic strudel recipe gets a creamy twist with the addition of sweet ricotta cheese, perfectly balanced by the crunch of fresh apples. This delightful dessert is sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 package puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup sweetened ricotta cheese
– 2 large apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Confectioners’ sugar (for dusting)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Cut into a large rectangle, approximately 10×14 inches.
3. In a bowl, mix together ricotta cheese, granulated sugar, and honey until smooth.
4. Arrange apple slices in the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around them. Top with the ricotta mixture.
5. Fold the sides of the pastry over the filling, then roll into a tight log shape.
6. Place the strudel on the prepared baking sheet and brush with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Ricotta and Cinnamon Roll Bread Pudding
Transform leftover cinnamon roll bread into a creamy, sweet, and indulgent dessert with this unique bread pudding recipe. The addition of ricotta cheese gives it an extra rich and velvety texture.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups stale cinnamon roll bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- Cinnamon and nutmeg to taste
Instructions:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together sugar, melted butter, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract.
- Add the bread cubes and mix until well coated.
- Stir in ricotta cheese and season with cinnamon and nutmeg to taste.
- Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and let it sit for 10 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the liquid.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35-40 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a world of sweet treats with these 18 delicious ricotta recipes! From classic desserts like cheesecake and cannoli, to creative twists on breakfast favorites like stuffed French toast and crepes, there’s something for every occasion. Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert or a quick and easy snack, ricotta is the perfect ingredient to add creaminess and flavor. Try one (or two, or three…) of these mouthwatering recipes today and discover the versatility of sweet ricotta!
