Get ready to indulge in a world of creamy, dreamy desserts with these 20 decadent ricotta recipes! Ricotta cheese is often overlooked as a sweet treat ingredient, but it’s a game-changer when it comes to adding richness and texture to your favorite desserts. From classic cheesecakes and tarts to creative twists on familiar treats like French toast and brownies, we’ve got you covered with these irresistible ricotta dessert recipes. Whether you’re in the mood for something bright and citrusy or rich and chocolatey, there’s a ricotta dessert on this list that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. So go ahead, get creative, and treat yourself to a world of creamy goodness!
Lemon Ricotta Cheesecake with Blueberry Compote
Elevate your dessert game with this refreshing and tangy cheesecake, topped with a sweet and succulent blueberry compote.
Ingredients:
For the cheesecake:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 12 oz (340g) ricotta cheese
– 16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt to taste
For the blueberry compote:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– 2 tbsp granulated sugar
– 2 tbsp water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Prepare crust by mixing crumbs and sugar in a bowl.
3. In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese, cream cheese, eggs, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Beat until smooth.
4. Pour cheesecake batter into prepared pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until set.
5. Meanwhile, prepare compote by combining blueberries, sugar, and water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until thickened.
6. Let cheesecake cool completely before serving with warm compote.
Cooking Time: 50-55 minutes
Ricotta Chocolate Chip Cannoli
Elevate your cannoli game with this unique and delicious recipe that combines the creamy richness of ricotta cheese with the sweetness of chocolate chips. Perfect for a special treat or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) package of fresh or dried cannoli shells
– 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, confectioners’ sugar, and granulated sugar. Mix until smooth.
3. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
4. Fold in chocolate chips.
5. Fill cooled cannoli shells with the ricotta mixture.
6. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (filling preparation time)
Honey Ricotta Tart with Pistachios
A sweet and savory tart that combines the creaminess of ricotta cheese with the nutty flavor of pistachios, all wrapped up in a flaky pastry crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 9-inch tart shell
– 12 oz ricotta cheese
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh pistachios
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together ricotta cheese, honey, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Spread the ricotta mixture into the tart shell.
4. Sprinkle chopped pistachios over the ricotta layer.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Ricotta and Berry Parfait
Start your day with a delightful combination of creamy ricotta cheese, sweet berries, and crunchy granola. This simple parfait recipe is perfect for a quick breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/4 cup granola
– Fresh mint leaves (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 half of the mixed berries.
4. Sprinkle with half of the granola.
5. Repeat the layers (ricotta, berries, granola).
6. Garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! Just assemble and serve.
Orange Ricotta Pound Cake
Brighten up your table with this moist and flavorful Orange Ricotta Pound Cake, infused with the sweetness of orange zest and the creaminess of ricotta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon grated orange zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, butter, orange zest, and orange juice until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in the ricotta cheese until fully incorporated.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Ricotta Stuffed French Toast with Maple Syrup
Elevate your breakfast game with this decadent and indulgent recipe, featuring creamy ricotta cheese stuffed inside crispy French toast, drizzled with sweet maple syrup.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread (preferably Challah or Brioche)
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– Maple syrup, for serving
– Butter, for greasing the skillet
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, and salt until well combined.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Grease with butter.
3. Dip each bread slice into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place coated bread slices on the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
5. In a small bowl, mix together ricotta cheese and a pinch of salt.
6. Once French toast is cooked, spread a spoonful of ricotta mixture onto each slice.
7. Serve warm with maple syrup drizzled on top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ricotta Almond Cookies
These Ricotta Almond Cookies are a sweet and tender delight, perfect for satisfying your cravings. The combination of creamy ricotta cheese and crunchy almonds creates a delightful texture that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk ricotta cheese
– 1 teaspoon almond extract
– 1/2 cup (60g) sliced almonds
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar.
3. In a large bowl, combine softened butter, eggs, ricotta cheese, and almond extract. Mix until smooth.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until combined.
5. Fold in sliced almonds.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches (5cm) space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Ricotta and Dark Chocolate Mousse
Elevate your dessert game with this rich and creamy mousse, combining the best of Italian ricotta cheese and velvety dark chocolate.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz (225g) whole-milk ricotta
– 1/2 cup (60g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup (30g) unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream, whipped to stiff peaks
– 3 ounces (85g) dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta, sugar, and cocoa powder. Whisk until smooth.
2. Fold in the whipped cream until well combined.
3. Melt the dark chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl (30-second intervals, stirring between each interval). Allow to cool slightly.
4. Fold the melted chocolate into the ricotta mixture until well combined.
5. Stir in vanilla extract.
6. Spoon the mousse into individual serving cups or a large serving dish. Chill for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None required!
Ricotta Zeppole with Powdered Sugar
Zeppole are traditional Italian doughnuts that are light, airy, and utterly delicious. This recipe uses ricotta cheese to give them an extra boost of flavor and moisture.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, granulated sugar, and eggs. Mix until smooth.
3. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
4. Cover the dough and let it rest for 30 minutes.
5. Heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
6. Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop the dough into the oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
7. Fry zeppole for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
8. Remove from oil and dust with powdered sugar while still warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ricotta Lemon Bars with Shortbread Crust
Brighten up your day with these tangy and creamy lemon bars, topped with a crumbly shortbread crust. A perfect combination of sweet and tart flavors in every bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar. Add softened butter; mix until crumbly.
3. Press the shortbread mixture into the prepared baking dish.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, eggs, ricotta cheese, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
5. Pour the lemon-ricotta mixture over the shortbread crust.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Ricotta Panna Cotta with Raspberry Sauce
Elevate your dessert game with this creamy and sweet Ricotta Panna Cotta, perfectly paired with a tangy Raspberry Sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 8 ounces fresh raspberries
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for raspberry sauce)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together ricotta cheese, heavy cream, sugar, and salt until smooth.
3. Add vanilla extract and whisk until combined.
4. Pour mixture into individual serving cups or a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly jiggly.
6. Allow panna cotta to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
7. For raspberry sauce, combine fresh raspberries and granulated sugar in a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth.
8. Serve chilled panna cotta with warm or chilled raspberry sauce.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ricotta and Fig Crostata
This rustic Italian dessert combines the creamy richness of ricotta cheese with the sweetness of caramelized figs, all wrapped up in a flaky pastry crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 8 oz ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup caramelized figs (see note)
– 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 to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Transfer to the prepared baking sheet.
3. In a bowl, whisk together ricotta cheese, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Spread the ricotta mixture evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Arrange caramelized figs on top of the ricotta mixture.
6. Fold the edges of the pastry up over the filling to form a crostata shape.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Note: Caramelize figs by cooking them in a skillet with a little butter and sugar until they’re tender and syrupy.
Ricotta Chocolate Swirl Brownies
Elevate your brownie game with the creamy richness of ricotta cheese and the deep flavor of dark chocolate. This unique dessert is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup (120g) ricotta cheese
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup (250g) dark chocolate chips
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar.
3. In a large bowl, combine butter, eggs, ricotta cheese, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl. Allow to cool slightly.
6. Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan. Top with melted chocolate, then swirl in remaining brownie batter.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Ricotta and Cherry Clafoutis
This sweet and savory dessert is a twist on the classic French clafoutis, featuring creamy ricotta cheese and juicy cherries. Perfect for a warm evening or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup pitted cherries, fresh or frozen
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together ricotta, sugar, flour, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and melted butter.
4. Add the ricotta mixture to the wet ingredients and stir until smooth.
5. Gently fold in the cherries.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Ricotta Tiramisu Cups
Elevate your dessert game with these bite-sized Ricotta Tiramisu Cups, combining the richness of ricotta cheese and espresso with ladyfingers. Perfect for parties or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 ladyfingers
– 1 (15 oz) container whole-milk ricotta cheese
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup strong brewed espresso or coffee
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
2. Dip each ladyfinger into the espresso, about 3-5 seconds per side (do not soak).
3. In small cups or ramekins, create a layer of ladyfingers.
4. Spoon the ricotta mixture over the ladyfingers, spreading evenly.
5. Repeat steps 3 and 4 until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of ricotta on top.
6. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: None (assembly only)
Ricotta Apple Galette
This sweet and savory galette combines the creaminess of ricotta cheese with the natural sweetness of apples, all wrapped up in a flaky pastry crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2 large Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a bowl, mix together ricotta cheese, honey, lemon juice, and salt.
4. Arrange apple slices in a spiral pattern, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Spread the ricotta mixture evenly over the apples.
6. Brush pastry edges with beaten egg.
7. Roll up pastry, starting from one long side, to form a tight log shape.
8. Place galette seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
9. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Ricotta Coconut Macaroons
These chewy macaroons get an extra boost of flavor and creaminess from the addition of ricotta cheese, while shredded coconut adds a delightful tropical touch. Perfect for a sweet treat or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream the butter and confectioners’ sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the ricotta cheese, shredded coconut, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until well combined.
4. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, about 1 inch apart.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden brown on the edges.
6. Allow to cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ricotta Hazelnut Truffles
Elevate your dessert game with these creamy Ricotta Hazelnut Truffles, perfect for special occasions or a sweet surprise. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be enjoying rich and decadent treats in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup hazelnuts, chopped
– 2 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, chopped hazelnuts, and confectioners’ sugar. Mix until well combined.
2. Add softened butter, vanilla extract, and pinch of salt. Mix until smooth and creamy.
3. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow it to firm up.
4. Use a small cookie scoop or spoon to form the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
5. Place the truffles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for an additional 15-20 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None
Ricotta Peach Cobbler
A sweet and creamy twist on a classic cobbler, this Ricotta Peach Cobbler combines the freshness of peaches with the richness of ricotta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups fresh peaches, sliced
– 8 ounces ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together ricotta cheese, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and salt until smooth.
3. Add sliced peaches and stir until they’re evenly coated with the ricotta mixture.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, melted butter, beaten egg, and vanilla extract until a crumbly dough forms.
5. Pour the peach-ricotta mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with the dough.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Ricotta Espresso Semifreddo
This semifreddo recipe combines the richness of ricotta cheese with the bold flavors of espresso, creating a unique and delicious dessert perfect for coffee lovers.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons instant espresso powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Whipped cream and chocolate shavings for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the ricotta cheese, heavy cream, sugar, espresso powder, and vanilla extract until smooth.
2. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch dish or a shallow metal pan.
3. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, whip heavy cream to stiff peaks and dollop on top of the semifreddo.
5. Garnish with chocolate shavings, if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-8 hours (refrigeration time)
Summary
Indulge in the creamy richness of ricotta desserts with these 20 decadent recipes! From classic cheesecakes and cannoli to innovative tarts, bars, and cookies, each treat showcases the versatility of this Italian staple. Discover sweet combinations like lemon-blueberry, chocolate-pistachio, and dark chocolate-raspberry, or go for bold flavors like orange-almond and fig-honey. Whether you’re in the mood for a light and airy parfait or a dense and fudgy brownie, these ricotta desserts are sure to satisfy your cravings.
