Ricette di Sicilia
Cibo, cultura e tradizioni siciliane
Sicilian Ricotta Tart: A Traditional Treat with a Creamy Heart
Discover the Sicilian ricotta tart — an irresistible dessert fit for any occasion, promising a taste sensation that will win over everyone!
📖 What is it
Discover the Sicilian ricotta tart — an irresistible dessert fit for any occasion, promising a taste sensation that will win over everyone!
🛒 Ingredients
- ✓ 500 g plain flour
- ✓ 200 g caster sugar
- ✓ 200 g unsalted butter
- ✓ 2 egg yolks
- ✓ 1 whole egg
- ✓ A pinch of salt
- ✓ Grated zest of 1 lemon
- ✓ Half a sachet of vanilla powder
- ✓ Half a sachet of baking powder
- ✓ 800 g sheep’s ricotta
- ✓ 250 g caster sugar
- ✓ 150 g chocolate chips
- ✓ Cherry jam or any flavour you fancy
📊 Nutritional Information
Let yourself be swept away by the warm, inviting aromas of Sicily with this ricotta tart, a dessert that tells tales of heritage, bustling kitchens, and authentic flavours. The buttery, crisp pastry pairs perfectly with the silky smooth ricotta filling, enlivened with a zesty hit of lemon and a whisper of vanilla, while scattered chocolate drops add delightful little contrasts. Ideal for sharing at cosy gatherings, this tart conjures the refined festivities of Sicily’s sunny shores, filling every bite with blissful sweetness.
👨🍳 Preparation
- 1
The day before, drain the ricotta in the fridge for 4-5 hours.
- 2
Mash the ricotta together with the sugar, cover and leave it to rest in the fridge overnight.
- 3
In a stand mixer, whisk the egg yolks, whole egg, and sugar together.
- 4
Add the cold butter cut into cubes and mix on a low speed.
- 5
Sift in the flour alongside the salt, lemon zest, vanilla, and baking powder, then bring the dough together.
- 6
Shape into a disc, wrap in cling film, and chill for 30 minutes.
- 7
Pass the ricotta mixture through a fine sieve, fold in the chocolate chips, and stir gently.
- 8
Roll out the pastry on a floured surface and line a 26 cm tart tin.
- 9
Pour in the ricotta filling and smooth the top with a spatula.
- 10
Create a decorative lattice with the remaining pastry strips.
- 11
Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for 35-40 minutes.
- 12
Allow to cool, brush with jam, and serve.
💡 Tips and Variations
- •
For a richer version, stir in some candied orange peel and chopped almonds to add layers of flavour and a lovely crunch.
- •
Use a traditional ceramic tart dish to ensure even baking and a charming, rustic presentation.
- •
Ricotta is the star here: opt for fresh sheep’s ricotta that’s well-drained to achieve that creamy, intense texture.
- •
If you prefer a lighter, vegan-friendly version, swap ricotta for cashew-based vegan cheese and use a dairy-free pastry made with vegetable oil instead of butter.
- •
To enhance the umami notes, a pinch of smoked salt in the filling adds great depth without overpowering the sweetness.
- •
For a gluten-free bake, use a blend of naturally gluten-free flours like rice and corn, with ground flaxseed as a binder.
- •
Patience pays off: always rest the pastry before baking to get that perfect crumbly texture and easier handling.
- •
The secret is the balance between the sweetness of the ricotta and the freshness of the citrus — together they make this tart a true Sicilian jewel.
📦 Storage
- • To keep your tart tender and fresh, store it in the fridge covered with a breathable cloth or in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- • For longer storage, wrap tightly in cling film and freeze — it will keep beautifully for up to 2 months.
- • When ready to enjoy a frozen tart, warm gently in the oven at 150°C for about 10 minutes to bring back its original aroma and texture.
🍷 Pairing
Pair this delight with a sweet passito from Pantelleria, whose honeyed notes perfectly complement the creamy ricotta filling. Alternatively, a fresh, fragrant Sicilian Catarratto wine balances the sweetness with a touch of acidity. If you fancy an international twist, a lightly sparkling Moscato d’Asti adds a lively sparkle to every bite.
Give this Sicilian ricotta tart a whirl in your kitchen — it’s a true crowd-pleaser that brings a touch of Mediterranean sunshine to your table. Whether you’re sharing it at a family gathering or a casual get-together with friends, it’s guaranteed to bring smiles and warm chats. Do give it a go, and don’t forget to pass on the joy by sharing your lovely creation with those you hold dear!
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