Indulge in the creamy goodness of ricotta cheese with these 20 mouthwatering desserts that will satisfy your sweet tooth. From classic Italian treats like cannoli and zeppole, to creative twists like ricotta-stuffed French toast and pumpkin spice muffins, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a fan of bright citrus flavors or rich chocolatey indulgences, there’s something on this list for everyone.
Ricotta’s creamy texture and mild flavor make it the perfect canvas for a wide range of sweet and savory combinations. And when paired with ingredients like honey, figs, and berries, the possibilities are truly endless. In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 decadent ricotta dessert recipes that will take your taste buds on a wild ride. From classic cheesecakes to innovative parfaits and tarts, get ready to indulge in the sweetest of treats.
Lemon Ricotta Cheesecake with Blueberry Compote
Brighten up your dessert game with this refreshing lemon ricotta cheesecake, paired with a sweet and tangy blueberry compote. The creamy cheese and citrusy lemon are the perfect match for the burst of juicy blueberries.
Ingredients:
For the Cheesecake:
– 12 oz (340g) whole-milk ricotta
– 1 3/4 cups (210g) granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup (120ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 9-inch (23cm) springform pan
For the Blueberry Compote:
– 1 cup (120g) fresh or frozen blueberries
– 2 tbsp granulated sugar
– 2 tbsp water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and lemon juice. Mix until smooth.
3. Pour the mixture into the prepared springform pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until set.
4. Meanwhile, in a small saucepan, combine blueberries, sugar, and water. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce heat and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until thickened.
5. Allow cheesecake to cool completely before serving with warm blueberry compote.
Cooking Time: approximately 55-60 minutes
Ricotta Chocolate Chip Cannoli
Combine creamy ricotta cheese with sweet chocolate chips and crispy cannoli shells for a unique dessert treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups confectioners’ sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– 12-14 cannoli shells
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
2. Stir in softened butter until fully incorporated.
3. Gradually add confectioners’ sugar, mixing until well combined.
4. Fold in chocolate chips.
5. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the ricotta mixture into each cannoli shell.
6. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: None (assembly only)
Honey Ricotta Tart with Pistachios
This elegant tart combines the richness of ricotta cheese with the warmth of honey and the crunch of pistachios, perfect for a special occasion or a dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons pure honey
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh pistachios
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
2. In a small bowl, mix ricotta cheese and honey until smooth. Spread the mixture over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
3. Sprinkle chopped pistachios over the ricotta mixture.
4. Fold the edges of the pastry up over the filling to form a crust, pressing gently to seal.
5. Brush the crust with melted butter and season with salt.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown.
7. Let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ricotta and Berry Parfait
A sweet and refreshing dessert perfect for warm weather, this Ricotta and Berry Parfait combines creamy ricotta cheese with fresh berries and crunchy biscotti.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
– 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 1/2 cup granola or crushed biscotti
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the ricotta cheese and honey until smooth.
2. Gently fold in the mixed berries.
3. Spoon half of the ricotta-berry mixture into a glass or parfait dish.
4. Top with crushed biscotti or granola.
5. Repeat the layers, finishing with the remaining ricotta-berry mixture.
6. Drizzle with lemon juice and serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Orange Ricotta Pound Cake
This Orange Ricotta Pound Cake recipe combines the brightness of orange zest with the creaminess of ricotta cheese, resulting in a moist and flavorful dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons orange juice
– 1 teaspoon grated orange zest
– 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, beat butter until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Stir in ricotta cheese, orange juice, and orange zest.
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
Ricotta Almond Biscotti
These crunchy Italian cookies are infused with the creamy richness of ricotta and the nutty flavor of almonds, making them a perfect companion to your favorite coffee or tea.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 8 oz ricotta cheese
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1 cup sliced almonds
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, beat eggs until smooth. Add ricotta cheese and mix until combined.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until a dough forms.
5. Fold in sliced almonds.
6. Divide dough into 2 pieces. Shape each piece into a log, about 12 inches long and 1 inch thick.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly golden brown. Let cool completely on a wire rack.
8. Slice logs into 1/2-inch thick slices. Bake at 325°F (165°C) for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until crispy.
Cooking Time: Total: 45-52 minutes
Ricotta Stuffed French Toast with Maple Syrup
Start your day off right with this sweet and satisfying breakfast treat that combines the classic flavors of French toast with the creamy richness of ricotta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread (preferably a crusty Challah or brioche)
– 1/2 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Maple syrup, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the ricotta cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg and a pinch of salt.
3. Dip each bread slice into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Stuff each bread slice with about 1 tablespoon of the ricotta mixture.
5. Place the stuffed French toast slices on a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
7. Serve warm with maple syrup drizzled on top.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Ricotta Chocolate Swirl Brownies
Rich, fudgy brownies infused with the creamy sweetness of ricotta and swirled with dark chocolate – a perfect combination for anyone with a sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 and 1/2 sticks unsalted butter, plus more for greasing
– 2 cups sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Stir in ricotta cheese, then melted chocolate.
5. Add the flour mixture and stir until just combined.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
7. Dollop with remaining chocolate chips and swirl with knife or spatula.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Ricotta and Fig Crostata
Ricotta and Fig Crostata: A Sweet and Savory Treat
This crostata combines the creamy richness of ricotta with the natural sweetness of figs, all wrapped up in a flaky pastry crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup fig jam or preserves
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves (optional)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar.
3. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work it into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Press dough into a 9-inch springform pan.
5. Spread ricotta cheese evenly over the crust, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
6. Spoon fig jam or preserves over the ricotta layer.
7. Sprinkle with chopped mint leaves, if using.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until crust is golden and filling is set.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Lemon Ricotta Pancakes with Raspberry Sauce
Lemon Ricotta Pancakes with Raspberry Sauce: A Bright and Sweet Breakfast Treat
Start your day off right with these fluffy lemon ricotta pancakes, topped with a tangy and sweet raspberry sauce. Perfect for a weekend brunch or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
– Raspberry sauce (recipe below)
Raspberry Sauce:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen raspberries
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 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 a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, lemon juice, and melted butter. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet or griddle.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, flip, and cook an additional 1-2 minutes.
7. Serve warm with raspberry sauce drizzled on top.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Ricotta Zeppole with Powdered Sugar
Ricotta Zeppole with Powdered Sugar Recipe
Zeppole are Italian doughnuts that are light and airy, typically filled with a sweet ricotta mixture. Here’s a simple recipe to make these delicious treats at home.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup whole milk
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine milk, vegetable oil, and eggs. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes.
6. Use a cookie scoop or a spoon to drop the dough into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
7. Fry the zeppole for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown.
8. Drain the zeppole on paper towels and dust with powdered sugar.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ricotta and Cherry Clafoutis
This sweet treat combines the creamy richness of ricotta cheese with the sweetness of cherries, all wrapped up in a crispy pastry crust. Perfect for a warm evening or as a unique dessert for your next dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted
– 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream, whipped
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together ricotta cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract.
3. Add cherries to the bowl and gently fold until they’re evenly coated with the ricotta mixture.
4. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
5. Place the cherry-ricotta mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
6. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling and press edges to seal.
7. Brush with heavy cream and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Ricotta Panna Cotta with Honey Drizzle
This creamy dessert combines the richness of ricotta cheese with the simplicity of honey, perfect for a quick and elegant treat. With just a few ingredients and minimal cooking time, you’ll be enjoying this sweet delight in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unflavored gelatin
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Honey, for drizzling (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 1/4 cup cold water and let it soften for 5 minutes.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the milk, heavy cream, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture simmers (180°F).
3. Remove from heat and add the softened gelatin, stirring to dissolve. Let cool slightly.
4. Stir in the ricotta cheese, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
5. Pour into individual serving cups or ramekins. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until set.
6. Drizzle with honey, if desired, before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep time included)
Ricotta and Dark Chocolate Mousse
Ricotta and Dark Chocolate Mousse Recipe
Elevate your dessert game with this rich and creamy mousse, featuring the perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz ricotta cheese
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Whipped cream and chocolate shavings for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip the ricotta cheese with an electric mixer until smooth.
2. Melt the dark chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the sugar and vanilla extract. Add to the melted chocolate and whisk until combined.
4. Fold the melted chocolate mixture into the whipped ricotta cheese until well combined.
5. Stir in the heavy cream until fully incorporated.
6. Spoon the mousse into individual serving cups or a large serving dish. Chill for at least 2 hours before serving.
7. Garnish with whipped cream and chocolate shavings, if desired.
Cooking Time: None (chilling time only)
Ricotta Apple Galette
This seasonal dessert combines the creamy richness of ricotta with the sweetness of apples, all wrapped up in a flaky pastry crust. Perfect for a cozy evening or a harvest-themed gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
– 2-3 apples, peeled and sliced
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, confectioners’ sugar, and cold butter. Use a pastry blender or fingers to work the butter into the dry ingredients until crumbly.
3. Roll out dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Transfer to a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
4. In a separate bowl, mix ricotta cheese with honey and salt. Arrange apple slices on top of the ricotta mixture, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Fold the pastry crust over the filling, creating a rustic galette shape.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Ricotta Coconut Macaroons
These chewy macaroons are infused with the creamy richness of ricotta and the warmth of coconut, making them a perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups almond flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 1 large egg white
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together almond flour, confectioners’ sugar, and unsweetened shredded coconut.
3. In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg white, salt, and granulated sugar. Whisk until smooth.
4. Fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until well combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, about 1 inch apart.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Ricotta and Peach Tartlets
Ricotta and Peach Tartlets: A Sweet and Tangy Treat
These bite-sized tartlets combine the creaminess of ricotta cheese with the sweetness of peaches, perfect for a summer dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 2 large ripe peaches, diced
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 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 about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into 12 equal squares.
3. In a small bowl, mix together ricotta cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract.
4. Place a spoonful of the ricotta mixture onto one half of each square, leaving a 1/2 inch border around edges. Top with diced peaches.
5. Fold the other half of the pastry square over the filling to form a triangle or shape as desired. Seal edges by pressing with a fork.
6. Place tartlets on prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-22 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Ricotta Espresso Tiramisu
Elevate your dessert game with this unique Ricotta Espresso Tiramisu, where the creaminess of ricotta cheese meets the bold flavor of espresso.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 ladyfingers
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 shots strong brewed espresso
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Cocoa powder for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together ricotta cheese, butter, and sugar until smooth.
2. Add espresso and vanilla extract; mix well to combine.
3. Dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture for about 3-5 seconds on each side (do not soak).
4. Assemble the tiramisu by creating layers in a serving dish: ladyfingers, ricotta mixture, repeat.
5. Dust with cocoa powder and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: None
Ricotta Pumpkin Spice Muffins
Elevate your breakfast or snack game with these moist and flavorful muffins, packed with the warmth of pumpkin spice and the creaminess of ricotta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
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, pumpkin puree, eggs, ricotta cheese, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Fold in chopped walnuts, if using.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ricotta and Pear Phyllo Cups
A delicate and flavorful dessert, perfect for a sweet treat or special occasion. These bite-sized cups combine the creaminess of ricotta with the sweetness of pears, all wrapped up in crispy phyllo pastry.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 ripe pear, diced
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
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, diced pear, honey, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
4. Layer phyllo sheets in a baking dish, brushing each layer with melted butter.
5. Spoon the ricotta-pear mixture onto the top layer of phyllo, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
6. Fold the phyllo over the filling to form cups.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until phyllo is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Indulge your sweet tooth with these 20 decadent ricotta dessert recipes that are simply irresistible! From classic cheesecakes to innovative tartlets, there’s something for everyone. Treat yourself to creamy Lemon Ricotta Cheesecake with Blueberry Compote or rich Ricotta Chocolate Chip Cannoli. Or try a unique combination like Honey Ricotta Tart with Pistachios or Orange Ricotta Pound Cake. Whatever your taste buds desire, these mouthwatering recipes will satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more.
