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Annie Graves

Whipped Ricotta Crostini with Honey and Nuts

This Whipped Ricotta Crostini with Honey and Nuts recipe features golden, crispy baguette slices topped with whipped ricotta cheese, a drizzle of honey, and a sprinkle of crunchy nuts. Easy to prepare in just 20 minutes, this appetizer is perfect for parties, charcuterie boards, or as a delightful snack. With simple ingredients and endless variations, it’s a versatile crowd-pleaser that combines flavors and textures beautifully.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 12
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 100

Ingredients
  

For the Crostini
  • 1 baguette sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • A pinch of salt
For the Whipped Ricotta
  • 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
  • 2 tbsp heavy cream optional, for extra creaminess
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Toppings
  • 3 tbsp honey choose a floral honey for a subtle aroma
  • 1/4 cup mixed nuts walnuts, pistachios, almonds, roughly chopped
Optional Garnish
  • Fresh thyme or rosemary
  • A sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for heat
  • Sliced fresh fruit like figs pears, or apples

Method
 

Prepare the Crostini
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet.
  2. Brush both sides lightly with olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch of salt.
  3. Bake for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp. Set aside to cool.
Whip the Ricotta
  1. In a food processor or with a hand mixer, combine ricotta, heavy cream (if using), lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
  2. Blend until smooth and fluffy, about 1-2 minutes.
Assemble the Crostini
  1. Spread a generous layer of whipped ricotta on each toasted baguette slice.
  2. Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with chopped nuts.
Add the Finishing Touch
  1. Garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary, if desired, for an herbal pop of flavor.
  2. Serve immediately and enjoy the harmony of creamy, crunchy, and sweet in every bite.

Notes

Nutritional Information (Per Crostini):

  • Calories: 80-100
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Fat: 4g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Sodium: 100mg
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Sugar: 3g

Suggestions:

  • Pairing Ideas: Serve these crostini with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc, Prosecco, or even a sparkling rosé for an elegant touch.
  • Presentation Tip: Arrange the crostini on a rustic wooden platter for a charming, farmhouse-chic look.
  • Make-Ahead Tip: Whip the ricotta up to a day in advance and store in the fridge. Assemble the crostini just before serving to keep the bread crisp.

Variations:

  1. Savory Herb Crostini: Replace the honey with a drizzle of aged balsamic vinegar and add a touch of flaky sea salt.
  2. Nut-Free Crostini: Swap the nuts for sunflower seeds or omit them entirely for a simpler version.
  3. Fruit-Topped Crostini: Add fresh figs, thinly sliced apples, or roasted grapes for a fruity twist.

Notes/Advice:

  • Customizing Sweetness: Adjust the amount of honey to taste—less for a milder sweetness, more for a dessert-like treat.
  • Choosing Nuts: Opt for roasted nuts for added flavor, or lightly toast them at home in a dry skillet for a deeper crunch.
  • Baguette Alternative: If you can’t find a baguette, try ciabatta or a rustic country loaf for similarly delicious results.