This Easy Rustic Fig and Ricotta Tart is a lovely dessert that brings out sweet figs paired with creamy ricotta. The crispy crust makes every bite delightful!
There’s something special about this tart—it looks fancy but is super simple to whip up. I often make it for friends and they think I’m a kitchen genius! 😂
It’s perfect for any occasion, and I love serving it with a drizzle of honey on top. The combination is so tasty and you won’t have leftovers for long!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry: Store-bought puff pastry is a game changer! It saves time and effort. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can try making your own pie crust, though it will require more work.
Ricotta Cheese: This creamy cheese is a must for the tart. If you can’t find ricotta, you can substitute with mascarpone or cream cheese for a smoother texture. Just remember, mascarpone is richer!
Figs: Fresh figs add a lovely sweetness, but you can use dried figs or even sliced stone fruits like peaches or nectarines if figs aren’t in season.
Honey: Honey complements the ricotta and figs well. Feel free to swap it with maple syrup or agave nectar for a different sweet touch.
How Can I Perfectly Prep the Puff Pastry?
Getting the pastry ready is key for a crispy crust! Follow these steps to ensure it puffs up nicely:
- Thaw the puff pastry properly (usually in the fridge overnight) to prevent it from being too sticky.
- Don’t skip the scoring step! Score carefully to create a border; this helps the pastry rise and form that nice edge.
- Brush the edges with olive oil or butter to encourage browning. It makes a big difference!
With these tips, your fig and ricotta tart will not only taste amazing but also look stunning. Enjoy making it!
Easy Rustic Fig and Ricotta Tart
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 sheet of store-bought puff pastry (about 9×9 inches), thawed
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 tablespoons honey, plus extra for drizzling
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 6-8 fresh figs, sliced
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, for sprinkling)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter (for brushing the pastry)
- Fresh thyme or rosemary leaves (optional, for garnish)
- A pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This rustic tart will take about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20-25 minutes to bake, making it a delightful addition to your dessert table in under 45 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the tart from sticking.
2. Prepare the Puff Pastry:
Unfold the thawed puff pastry sheet on the prepared baking sheet. With a knife, lightly score a 1-inch border around the edge. Be careful not to cut all the way through; this will create a lovely crust when it bakes.
3. Make the Ricotta Mixture:
In a small bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, honey, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
4. Assemble the Tart:
Spread the ricotta mixture evenly inside the scored border of the puff pastry. This will be the creamy base for your figs.
5. Add the Figs:
Layer the sliced figs beautifully over the ricotta filling. If you like, sprinkle a bit of brown sugar on top to add extra sweetness and caramelization.
6. Brush the Edges:
To help the edges of the pastry turn golden and crunchy, brush them with olive oil or melted butter.
7. Bake the Tart:
Place the tart in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You want the crust to be puffed and golden, and the figs to be soft and slightly caramelized.
8. Finish and Serve:
Once baked, remove the tart from the oven and let it cool a little. Drizzle with extra honey and garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary leaves if you like. This adds a nice touch!
9. Enjoy Your Tart!
Serve warm or at room temperature. This easy rustic fig and ricotta tart is not only delicious but also makes for a stunning presentation at any table!
FAQ for Easy Rustic Fig and Ricotta Tart
Can I Use Different Fruits for This Tart?
Absolutely! While figs are delicious, you can easily substitute them with other fruits like sliced peaches, nectarines, or even berries. Just adjust the sugar level based on the sweetness of the fruit you choose.
Can I Make This Tart Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the tart in advance but it’s best to bake it right before serving. If you need to, assemble the tart and refrigerate it unbaked for up to a few hours before baking. Just add an extra 5 minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
Can I Use Homemade Puff Pastry Instead of Store-Bought?
Yes, you can! Homemade puff pastry will give you a more personalized touch, and they can be very tasty. Just ensure to roll it out to the same size as the store-bought pastry and follow the same baking instructions.
