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Ricotta Pistachio Honey Bites Recipe

Ricotta Pistachio Honey Bites Recipe
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★★★★★

4.8 from 30 reviews

These Ricotta Pistachio Honey Bites are a delightful, bite-sized dessert featuring creamy ricotta cheese balls coated in a crunchy pistachio and sugar mixture, baked to golden perfection, and drizzled with a sweet honey glaze. Perfect for an elegant snack or a sophisticated treat, they bring together nutty, sweet, and creamy flavors with a beautiful presentation, garnished with edible flowers and sea salt for a refined touch.

Ingredients

Scale

Ricotta Mixture

  • 15 ounces (about 425g) whole milk ricotta cheese, drained well
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
  • Pinch of salt

Coating

  • 1 cup shelled pistachios, finely chopped (unsalted or lightly salted)
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar

Honey Drizzle

  • 1/4 cup honey (good quality)
  • 1 tablespoon water

Garnish (optional)

  • Extra chopped pistachios
  • Edible flowers
  • A sprinkle of sea salt

Instructions

  1. Drain the Ricotta: Place ricotta in a fine-mesh sieve lined with cheesecloth or paper towel. Drain in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (up to 1 hour), pressing gently to remove excess moisture to ensure a firm mixture.
  2. Combine Ricotta Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the drained ricotta, egg, sugar, vanilla extract, almond extract (if using), and salt. Whisk gently until smooth but be careful not to overmix, which may affect the texture.
  3. Chill the Mixture: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight. This chilling step helps the mixture firm up for shaping.
  4. Chop Pistachios: Finely chop the pistachios to create a crunchy coating for the bites.
  5. Combine Coating Ingredients: In a shallow dish, mix together the finely chopped pistachios, all-purpose flour, and granulated sugar; set aside for coating.
  6. Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking during baking.
  7. Scoop the Ricotta: Remove the chilled ricotta mixture from the fridge. Using a small scoop or spoon, portion out the mixture into roughly 1-inch balls.
  8. Shape the Bites (Optional): Roll each portion gently between your palms to form smooth balls. Dampen your hands slightly if the mixture is sticky or crumbly.
  9. Coat the Bites: Roll each ricotta ball in the pistachio coating mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the coating adheres fully and uniformly.
  10. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the coated bites on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart so they do not touch during baking.
  11. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking.
  12. Bake the Bites: Bake the ricotta bites for 12-15 minutes, or until they turn lightly golden and the pistachios are toasted. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
  13. Cool the Bites: Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Let the bites cool on the sheet for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  14. Combine Honey and Water: In a small saucepan, combine the honey and water to prepare the drizzle.
  15. Heat Gently: Warm the honey and water over low heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thins and combines well, about 1-2 minutes. Avoid boiling to keep the honey’s delicate flavors intact.
  16. Cool Slightly: Remove the honey mixture from heat and allow it to cool slightly before using.
  17. Drizzle with Honey: Once the ricotta bites have cooled, drizzle the honey glaze generously over each bite for a beautiful shine and added sweetness.
  18. Garnish (Optional): Decorate the ricotta bites with extra chopped pistachios, edible flowers, and a light sprinkle of sea salt to enhance both flavor and presentation.
  19. Serve: Serve the Ricotta Pistachio Honey Bites immediately, or store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They are best enjoyed at room temperature or slightly chilled.

Notes

  • Drain the ricotta thoroughly to avoid excess moisture causing the bites to fall apart.
  • The almond extract is optional but adds a lovely subtle nutty flavor complementary to the pistachios.
  • Use good quality honey for the drizzle to enhance the flavor and aroma.
  • Chilled ricotta mixture is easier to handle and roll into balls.
  • Watch the bites closely while baking to avoid over-toasting or burning the nuts.
  • These bites can be made a day ahead and refrigerated; bring to room temperature before serving for best taste.
  • Edible flowers are optional but add a stunning visual appeal perfect for entertaining.

Nutrition

Keywords: ricotta bites, pistachio desserts, honey drizzle, Italian dessert, bite-sized treats

Find it online: https://amayaharis.com/ricotta-pistachio-honey-bites-recipe-2/