Fig & Honey Tart with Whipped Ricotta

Short Description

This Fig & Honey Tart with Whipped Ricotta is a refined dessert that highlights the natural sweetness of figs, the creamy richness of ricotta, and the delicate flavor of honey. Set atop a crisp puff pastry base, this tart delivers both elegance and ease, making it ideal for entertaining or indulging.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Emphasizes seasonal, fresh ingredients
• Quick and simple to prepare using store-bought puff pastry
• Beautifully presented and perfect for entertaining
• Light yet satisfying flavor profile
• Can be served warm or chilled, depending on the occasion

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
• 200g ricotta cheese
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon caster sugar
• 6 to 8 ripe figs, sliced
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Optional: crushed pistachios, fresh mint leaves, extra honey for drizzling

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Score a 1 cm border around the edges.
3. In a bowl, mix ricotta, egg, sugar, vanilla, and lemon zest until smooth.
4. Spread the ricotta mixture evenly within the border of the pastry.
5. Arrange sliced figs decoratively on top and drizzle with 1 tablespoon of honey.
6. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and the filling is set.
7. Remove from oven, let cool slightly, then garnish with pistachios, mint, and more honey if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25–30 minutes
• Total Time: 40–45 minutes

Variations

• Fruit substitutions: Use plums, peaches, or pears in place of figs.
• Different cheese: Try mascarpone or cream cheese for a richer filling.
• Savory twist: Add a sprinkle of sea salt and chopped thyme to the ricotta.
• Extra texture: Include chopped almonds or walnuts for crunch.
• Citrus change: Swap lemon zest for orange or lime for a different citrus profile.

Storage/Reheating

• Store leftover tart in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through.
• The tart can also be enjoyed cold straight from the refrigerator.

FAQs

How do I know when the tart is ready?

The tart is ready when the pastry is golden and puffed, and the ricotta filling appears set and slightly firm.

Can I use frozen figs?

Yes, but thaw them first and pat them dry to remove excess moisture before using.

Is this tart very sweet?

No, it has a subtle sweetness from the honey and figs, balanced by the mild ricotta and lemon zest.

Can I make this without eggs?

Yes, you can omit the egg, though the filling may be slightly less firm. Consider adding a tablespoon of cream instead.

Can I make the tart ahead of time?

Yes, it can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving if desired.

What kind of honey should I use?

A light, floral honey such as clover or orange blossom complements the figs well without overpowering them.

Do I need to peel the figs?

No, fresh figs do not need to be peeled. Simply wash and slice them.

Can I make individual tartlets?

Yes, cut the pastry into smaller rectangles and prepare as individual servings using the same method.

What can I serve with this tart?

It pairs well with whipped cream, Greek yogurt, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Is puff pastry the only option?

You can use shortcrust pastry or make a tart shell from scratch, but puff pastry offers the quickest and easiest option.

Conclusion

The Fig & Honey Tart with Whipped Ricotta is a beautiful balance of creamy, sweet, and crisp textures. With minimal ingredients and preparation, it delivers a sophisticated dessert experience that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. Perfect for any gathering, it is sure to become a seasonal favorite.

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