Italian Ricotta Almond Tar Recipe

If you’re craving a dessert that feels like a cozy hug and a sunny afternoon all wrapped into one, the Italian Ricotta Almond Tar is an absolute must-try. This charming tart pairs the creamy, delicate texture of whole-milk ricotta with the nutty warmth of almond flour, creating a delightful balance of flavors and textures that’s impossible to resist. Whether you’re serving it to guests or sneaking a slice for yourself, this recipe brings a slice of Italy right to your table with ease and elegance.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting your hands on these simple yet essential ingredients is the first step toward an irresistible Italian Ricotta Almond Tar. Each component plays a key role, whether it’s building the buttery, crumbly crust or enriching the luscious filling with aromatic hints.

• Almond flour: 1½ cups (150 g) of fine-ground almond flour provides that characteristic nutty flavor and moist crumb for the crust.
• All-purpose flour: ½ cup (60 g) to help bind the almond flour and give structure to the crust.
• Unsalted butter: ½ cup (113 g), softened for a rich, tender crust that melts in your mouth.
• Powdered sugar: ½ cup (60 g) adds subtle sweetness and helps blend the dough smoothly.
• Egg (for crust): 1 large egg to bring the dough together perfectly.
• Ricotta cheese: 2 cups (500 g) of whole-milk ricotta for the filling’s creamy, velvety base.
• Granulated sugar: ½ cup (100 g) sweetens the filling with a clean, classic touch.
• Eggs (for filling): 2 large eggs lend richness and help the filling set beautifully.
• Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon adds warmth and subtle depth.
• Almond extract: 1 teaspoon enhances the nutty profile and ties the flavors together.
• Lemon zest: Zest of 1 lemon brightens the filling with fresh citrus notes.
• Sliced almonds (topping): ½ cup (45 g) for a crunchy finishing touch that’s both decorative and delicious.

How to Make Italian Ricotta Almond Tar

Step 1: Prepare the crust

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9-inch tart pan to prevent sticking. In a mixing bowl, combine almond flour, all-purpose flour, softened butter, powdered sugar, and 1 egg. Mix everything until you get a smooth dough that comes together nicely. Press this dough evenly into the bottom and sides of your prepared tart pan, making sure it’s compact and smooth. To prevent bubbles, prick the base gently with a fork. Bake the crust for 10 to 12 minutes until it turns lightly golden, then let it cool for 10 minutes before adding the filling.

Step 2: Whisk the filling

While the crust cools, it’s time to whip up the luscious filling. In a separate bowl, whisk together ricotta cheese, granulated sugar, 2 eggs, vanilla extract, almond extract, and lemon zest. Keep whisking until the mixture is smooth and creamy with no lumps. This filling is what brings the decadent softness and subtle flavors that make this Italian Ricotta Almond Tar unforgettable.

Step 3: Assemble and bake

Pour the ricotta filling evenly over the cooled crust, smoothing out the surface with a spatula. Sprinkle the sliced almonds generously on top for added texture and visual appeal. Place the tart back in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes until the center is set and the top turns a gentle pale gold. The aroma that fills your kitchen at this point is simply irresistible.

Step 4: Cool and chill (optional)

Once baked, let the tart cool completely. For those who want perfect, clean slices, chill it in the refrigerator for at least one hour. You can also enjoy it at room temperature if you prefer a softer, creamier texture.

How to Serve Italian Ricotta Almond Tar

Garnishes

Enhance the natural beauty of the Italian Ricotta Almond Tar with a few thoughtful garnishes. A light dusting of powdered sugar adds an elegant snowy look. Fresh berries, such as raspberries or blackberries, bring a burst of color and tartness that cuts through the rich ricotta. A few sprigs of fresh mint are perfect for a refreshing herbal note and a lovely visual contrast.

Side Dishes

This tart pairs wonderfully with a cup of strong espresso or a delicate green tea to offset its creamy sweetness. If you’re serving brunch, a simple mixed greens salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette provides a crisp, light counterbalance that complements the almond flavors beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Looking to impress your guests? Serve wedges of the Italian Ricotta Almond Tar on rustic wooden boards, accompanied by small bowls of whipped cream or honey for drizzling. For a lighter serving, consider mini tartlets made in muffin tins, perfect for gatherings where finger food is favored. You might also layer it with fresh fruit in a trifle glass to create a stunning multi-textured dessert.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover tart tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days without losing its creamy texture or nutty flavor—great for enjoying as a next-day treat.

Freezing

If you want to make the Italian Ricotta Almond Tar ahead of time, freezing is an excellent option. Wrap the whole tart or slices securely in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator for best results.

Reheating

To reheat, warm slices gently in a low oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes to refresh the crust’s crispness while warming the filling just slightly. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the delicate almond texture intact.

FAQs

Is ricotta cheese the same as cottage cheese?

Not quite. Ricotta has a much finer, creamier texture and a milder flavor than cottage cheese, which makes it ideal for smooth, rich fillings like in the Italian Ricotta Almond Tar.

Can I use almond meal instead of almond flour?

Yes, but almond flour is typically finer and produces a smoother crust. Almond meal is coarser and might change the texture slightly, making the crust more crumbly.

What’s the best way to prevent the crust from shrinking?

Chilling the dough before baking and pricking it with a fork helps prevent shrinking and bubbling during baking, which keeps your crust perfectly shaped for filling.

Can I substitute the almond extract?

While almond extract is key for that signature nutty aroma, you can replace it with a little extra vanilla extract or even a splash of orange blossom water for a different but lovely flavor profile.

How do I know when the tart filling is done?

The filling should appear set with no jiggling in the center and have a pale golden color on top. A slight softness is okay as it will firm up further upon cooling.

Final Thoughts

The Italian Ricotta Almond Tar is more than just a dessert—it’s a comforting celebration of simple yet luxurious ingredients that come together to create something truly special. Once you’ve tried this tart, it’s bound to become a favorite in your kitchen, a recipe you share enthusiastically with friends, and a sweet way to make everyday moments feel a little more joyful. So go ahead, treat yourself to this lovely slice of Italy and savor the magic!

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