A Thousand Recipes for Desserts with Ricotta

Here is the recipe for a classic dessert that uses ricotta: the ricotta tart. This is a simple but delicious dessert, typically Italian.

Ingredients

• 250 g of 00 flour
• 125 g of sugar
• 125 g of butter, at room temperature
• 1 egg
• 1 egg yolk (for the shortcrust pastry)
• 1 pinch of salt
• Grated zest of 1 lemon

For the filling:

• 500 g of ricotta
• 150 g of sugar
• 2 whole eggs
• 1 egg yolk
• Grated zest of 1 lemon
• 1 packet of vanillin or one teaspoon of vanilla extract
• 100 g of chocolate chips or candied fruit (optional)

Preparation

1. Prepare the shortcrust pastry by mixing the flour with the butter until you obtain a sandy mixture. Add the sugar, one egg, the grated lemon zest, and a pinch of salt. Quickly work the ingredients until you obtain a smooth dough, then wrap it in plastic wrap and let it rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

2. Meanwhile, prepare the ricotta filling by mixing the ricotta with the sugar until creamy. Add the vanillin or vanilla extract, the whole eggs and yolk, the lemon zest, and, if desired, the chocolate chips or candied fruit. Mix all the ingredients well.

3. Roll out the shortcrust pastry into an even layer and line a tart pan that has been previously buttered and floured. Prick the base with a fork and pour in the ricotta mixture.

4. Bake in a preheated oven at 180 °C for 35-40 minutes or until the surface is golden and the shortcrust pastry is cooked.

5. Remove the tart from the oven and let it cool completely before serving.

This ricotta tart is a delightful conclusion to a meal or perfect for a snack. If you like, you can also add candied orange or lemon peel to the ricotta filling for an extra touch of flavor.

Trivia

The ricotta tart has ancient origins and is said to have been greatly appreciated even in ancient Rome as a dessert that concluded banquets and celebrations. In Italy, it can vary by region, with additions such as pine nuts, dried fruit, or different flavorings.