Deliciously crispy phyllo tarts, stuffed with creamy ricotta cheese and adorned with fresh raspberries. This dessert is perfect for a dinner party or a sweet treat for your family. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a joy to eat, offering a delightful crunch from the phyllo, a smooth creaminess from the ricotta, and a burst of fruity freshness from the raspberries.
The key ingredients for this recipe are phyllo dough, ricotta cheese, and fresh raspberries. Phyllo dough might be a bit unfamiliar to some, as it is a very thin, flaky pastry that's often used in Greek and Middle Eastern cuisines. You can usually find it in the frozen section of your supermarket, near the pie crusts and puff pastry. Ricotta cheese is a soft, creamy Italian cheese that can be found in the dairy aisle. It's lower in fat than many other types of cheese, which makes it a healthier option.
Ingredients for Phyllo Tarts with Ricotta and Raspberries
Phyllo dough: This is a very thin unleavened dough used for making pastries in Middle Eastern and Balkan cuisines. It's known for its crisp texture when baked.
Unsalted butter: Used to brush between the layers of phyllo dough, giving it a rich flavor and golden color.
Ricotta cheese: A creamy, slightly sweet cheese that forms the base of the tart filling.
White sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the tartness of the raspberries.
Egg: Helps to bind the ricotta filling and gives it a firm texture.
Orange zest: Provides a bright citrus note that compliments the flavor of the raspberries.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
Ground nutmeg: Adds a hint of warm, spicy flavor.
Fresh raspberries: Offers a tart contrast to the sweet and creamy ricotta filling.
Confectioners' sugar: Used for dusting the tarts before serving, adding a sweet finish.
One reader, Andee Provost says:
I recently tried the phyllo tarts with ricotta and raspberries recipe and it was a delightful treat! The combination of creamy ricotta and fresh raspberries in a flaky phyllo crust was simply divine. The recipe was easy to follow and the tarts turned out beautifully. I highly recommend giving it a try!
Techniques Required for Making Phyllo Tarts with Ricotta and Raspberries
How to drain ricotta cheese: Place the ricotta cheese in a sieve and let it drain for about 20 minutes to remove excess moisture. This will prevent the tart from becoming too watery.
How to line tart pans with phyllo dough: Cut the phyllo dough into 5-inch squares and layer them in the tart pans, brushing melted butter between each layer. Trim the edges of the dough for a neat finish.
How to bake the tarts: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F and bake the tarts for about 25 minutes, until they are golden brown and cooked through.
How to arrange raspberries on the tarts: Once the tarts have cooled slightly, arrange the fresh raspberries on top of each tart for a beautiful presentation.
How to serve the tarts: Remove the tarts from the pans, sprinkle them with confectioners' sugar, and serve them as a delightful dessert or snack.
How To Make Phyllo Tarts with Ricotta and Raspberries
These decadent, golden and crispy phyllo tarts are made with fresh raspberries plus light, and creamy ricotta cheese that melts in the mouth!
Serves:
Ingredients
- 5sheetsphyllo dough
- 2tbspunsalted butter,melted
- 1cuplow-fat ricotta cheese
- ¼cupwhite sugar
- 1egg
- ½tsporange zest
- ½tspvanilla extract
- 1pinchground nutmeg
- 2cupsfresh raspberries
- 1tbspconfectioners’ sugar,for dusting
Instructions
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Drain ricotta cheese in a sieve for about 20 minutes; set aside.
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Spray 6 3-inch loose-bottomed tart pans with nonfat cooking spray.
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Leave phyllo sheets in a stack and use a ruler to trace 6 5-inch squares onto the top sheet (3 squares across and 2 squares down). Using a sharp knife, cut along traced lines, through all 5 sheets of dough.
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Immediately line each tart pan with 5 sheets of dough, lightly brushing melted butter or margarine between each layer. Trim edges of the dough.
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In a medium mixing bowl, combine ricotta, sugar, egg, orange rind, vanilla extract, and nutmeg. Beat with an electric mixer until smooth. Pour an equal amount of mixture into each tart pan.
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Bake in preheated oven for about 25 minutes, until golden brown. Cool tarts slightly, then arrange raspberries on top.
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Remove tarts from pans, sprinkle with confectioners’ sugar, and serve.
Nutrition
- Calories: 223.50kcal
- Fat: 11.11g
- Saturated Fat: 6.33g
- Trans Fat: 0.16g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 3.28g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.74g
- Carbohydrates: 24.29g
- Fiber: 2.99g
- Sugar: 11.65g
- Protein: 7.21g
- Cholesterol: 57.92mg
- Sodium: 122.45mg
- Calcium: 103.15mg
- Potassium: 129.20mg
- Iron: 1.08mg
- Vitamin A: 94.30µg
- Vitamin C: 10.97mg
Helpful Technique for Making Phyllo Tarts with Ricotta and Raspberries
When working with phyllo dough, it's important to keep it covered with a damp cloth when not in use. This prevents the dough from drying out and becoming brittle. Also, when brushing the dough with melted butter, make sure to do it gently to avoid tearing the delicate sheets. Lastly, when arranging the raspberries on top of the tarts, you can create a beautiful design by starting from the outside and working your way in, similar to a spiral. This not only makes the tarts more visually appealing but also ensures an even distribution of fruit in every bite.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Phyllo Tarts
Prepare the ingredients: Gather all the necessary ingredients and measure them out before starting. This will help streamline the cooking process and prevent any last-minute scrambling for items.
Use pre-made phyllo dough: Save time by using pre-made phyllo dough instead of making it from scratch. This will significantly cut down on prep time and make the recipe more convenient.
Multi-task: While the tarts are baking, use that time to clean up the kitchen or prepare other components of the meal. Multi-tasking can help make the most of your time in the kitchen.
Organize your workspace: Keep your cooking area organized and clean as you work. This will prevent any unnecessary clutter and make the cooking process more efficient.
Prep in advance: Prepare the ricotta mixture and store it in the refrigerator a day ahead. This way, when you're ready to assemble the tarts, the filling is already prepared, saving you time and effort.
Substitute Ingredients For Phyllo Tarts with Ricotta and Raspberries Recipe
phyllo dough - Substitute with puff pastry sheets: Puff pastry sheets can be used as a substitute for phyllo dough, providing a flaky and buttery texture to the tarts.
unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used as a dairy-free alternative to unsalted butter, adding a subtle coconut flavor to the tarts.
low-fat ricotta cheese - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can be used as a lower-fat alternative to ricotta cheese, providing a creamy and tangy filling for the tarts.
white sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can be used as a natural sweetener instead of white sugar, adding a distinct flavor to the tarts.
egg - Substitute with applesauce: Applesauce can be used as a vegan alternative to eggs, providing moisture and binding properties to the tarts.
orange zest - Substitute with lemon zest: Lemon zest can be used as a substitute for orange zest, adding a citrusy aroma and flavor to the tarts.
vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract can be used as a substitute for vanilla extract, imparting a nutty and sweet flavor to the tarts.
ground nutmeg - Substitute with cinnamon: Cinnamon can be used as a substitute for nutmeg, adding a warm and aromatic flavor to the tarts.
fresh raspberries - Substitute with strawberries: Strawberries can be used as a substitute for raspberries, providing a similar sweet and tart flavor to the tarts.
confectioners' sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can be used as a natural sweetener instead of confectioners' sugar, adding a rich and caramel-like sweetness to the tarts.
Presentation Ideas for Phyllo Tarts with Ricotta and Raspberries
Elevate the phyllo tarts: Carefully arrange the phyllo tarts on individual serving plates, ensuring they are positioned neatly and elegantly.
Garnish with fresh raspberries: Artfully place the fresh raspberries on top of the ricotta filling, creating a visually appealing and vibrant display.
Dust with confectioners' sugar: Lightly dust the tarts with a fine layer of confectioners' sugar, adding a touch of elegance and a hint of sweetness to the presentation.
Add a touch of citrus: Garnish the plate with a delicate twist of orange zest, adding a pop of color and a refreshing aroma to the dish.
Drizzle with honey: For a final touch, drizzle a small amount of high-quality honey around the edge of the plate, adding a subtle sweetness and a glossy finish to the presentation.
Essential Tools for Making Phyllo Tarts
- Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen appliance used for chopping, slicing, shredding, and pureeing ingredients. It can be used to make dough, sauces, and various other culinary preparations.
- Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is a kitchen essential for combining ingredients, whisking, or beating batters. It comes in various sizes and materials, such as stainless steel, glass, or ceramic, and is a fundamental tool for cooking and baking.
- Pastry brush: A pastry brush is a kitchen tool used for spreading butter, oil, egg wash, or glazes onto food items. It is commonly used in baking and pastry-making to achieve a glossy finish or to seal dough.
- Tart pans: Tart pans are shallow, round baking dishes with fluted edges, specifically designed for making tarts. They come in various sizes and are typically made of metal, ceramic, or non-stick materials.
- Sieve: A sieve, also known as a sifter, is a mesh utensil used to separate and break up clumps in dry ingredients, such as flour or sugar. It is also used to strain liquids and purées in cooking and baking.
- Electric mixer: An electric mixer is a kitchen appliance used for mixing, beating, and whipping ingredients. It can be handheld or stand-mounted and is essential for tasks like creaming butter, making meringues, or mixing batters.
Storing and Freezing Phyllo Tarts with Ricotta and Raspberries
Once the phyllo tarts have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To maintain the crispness of the phyllo pastry, avoid storing the tarts in the refrigerator, as the moisture can make them soggy.
If you want to store the tarts for a longer period, you can freeze them for up to 1 month. Wrap each tart individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, ensuring a tight seal to prevent freezer burn. Place the wrapped tarts in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag.
To thaw the frozen phyllo tarts, remove them from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. If you prefer warm tarts, you can reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
If you have leftover ricotta filling, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can use the filling to make more tarts or as a spread on toast or crackers.
To store any leftover fresh raspberries, place them in a single layer on a paper towel-lined plate or container. Cover the raspberries loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Avoid washing the raspberries until just before using them, as moisture can cause them to spoil quickly.
How To Reheat Leftover Phyllo Tarts with Ricotta and Raspberries
To reheat leftover phyllo tarts in the oven, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the tarts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and heat for 8-10 minutes, or until the phyllo dough is crisp and the filling is warmed through. Keep an eye on the tarts to ensure the delicate phyllo doesn't burn.
For a quicker reheating method, use the microwave. Place the tarts on a microwave-safe plate and heat on high power for 15-20 seconds. Check the tarts and continue heating in 10-second intervals until the filling is warm and the ricotta cheese is slightly melted. Be careful not to overheat, as the phyllo may become soggy.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat the phyllo tarts and restore their crispness. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the tarts in the basket, ensuring they don't overlap. Heat for 3-4 minutes, or until the phyllo is crisp and the filling is warmed through.
For a stovetop method, place a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat. Add the tarts to the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for 2-3 minutes, or until the bottoms of the tarts are crisp and the filling is warmed through. This method helps to crisp up the bottom of the tarts while gently warming the ricotta and raspberry filling.
If you want to refresh the appearance of the reheated tarts, garnish them with a dusting of confectioners' sugar and a few fresh raspberries before serving. This will help to enhance the presentation and add a pop of freshness to the reheated dessert.
Interesting Fact About Phyllo Tarts with Ricotta and Raspberries
The phyllo tarts with ricotta and raspberries recipe is a delightful combination of creamy ricotta, sweet raspberries, and flaky phyllo dough. This dessert offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a delightful treat for any occasion. The contrast between the crispy phyllo and the smooth ricotta filling, topped with juicy raspberries, creates a delightful sensory experience. Additionally, this recipe can be easily customized by using different fruits or adding a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness. Enjoy experimenting with this versatile and delicious dessert!
Is Making Phyllo Tarts at Home Cost-Effective?
The cost-effectiveness of this phyllo tarts with ricotta and raspberries recipe is quite favorable. The main ingredients, such as phyllo dough, ricotta cheese, and raspberries, are reasonably priced and widely available. The recipe yields 6 tarts, making it suitable for a family of 4 at an approximate cost of $12-15. The delightful combination of creamy ricotta, sweet raspberries, and flaky phyllo dough earns this recipe a solid 9 out of 10. It offers a delectable dessert option that is both economical and impressive for any household.
Are Phyllo Tarts with Ricotta and Raspberries Healthy?
The phyllo tarts with ricotta and raspberries recipe is a delightful dessert that balances indulgence with some healthier ingredients. While it contains some nutritious elements, such as low-fat ricotta cheese and fresh raspberries, there are also components that make it less than ideal for a healthy diet.
On the positive side:
- Low-fat ricotta cheese provides protein and calcium with less saturated fat compared to regular ricotta
- Fresh raspberries offer fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants
- The recipe uses a relatively small amount of sugar and butter compared to many desserts
However, there are some aspects that could be improved:
- Phyllo dough is high in refined carbohydrates and contains little fiber
- The recipe still includes added sugars, which should be consumed in moderation
- Butter, although used sparingly, is a source of saturated fat
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Replace the phyllo dough with a whole-grain or nut-based crust for added fiber and nutrients
- Reduce the amount of sugar in the ricotta filling or substitute with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup
- Use a plant-based butter alternative or olive oil instead of regular butter to decrease saturated fat content
- Increase the amount of fresh raspberries to boost the fiber and antioxidant content of the dessert
- Serve the tarts with a dollop of Greek yogurt for an extra protein boost
By making these adjustments, you can create a more nutritious version of this tasty treat that still satisfies your sweet tooth while providing some health benefits.
Editor's Opinion on This Phyllo Tart Recipe
This recipe for phyllo tarts with ricotta and raspberries is a delightful combination of flaky phyllo pastry, creamy ricotta filling, and fresh raspberries. The use of phyllo dough adds a lovely crunch to the tarts, while the ricotta mixture provides a smooth and luscious texture. The addition of orange zest and nutmeg brings a subtle warmth and depth of flavor to the filling, complementing the sweetness of the raspberries. Overall, this recipe offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors, making it a delightful and elegant dessert option for any occasion.
Enhance Your Phyllo Tarts with Ricotta and Raspberries Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Phyllo Tarts with Ricotta and Raspberries Recipe:
This recipe guarantees a delightful experience with its combination of phyllo dough and ricotta cheese. The careful preparation and baking process ensure a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The use of fresh raspberries adds a burst of fruity sweetness, elevating the dish. The inclusion of orange zest and vanilla extract enhances the aroma and taste, showcasing attention to detail. The recipe's reliance on low-fat ingredients reflects a commitment to health-conscious cooking. Overall, this recipe offers a harmonious blend of ingredients and a delightful presentation, earning the trust of users.
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