Whipped Ricotta Crostini is a simple yet elegant appetizer that’s perfect for entertaining or snacking. It features creamy, airy ricotta cheese whipped to perfection and spread over crisp, golden crostini. Finished with your choice of sweet or savory toppings—like honey, herbs, roasted tomatoes, or nuts—this dish is as beautiful as it is delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s quick and easy—ready in just 15 minutes
- Elegant enough for parties, simple enough for snacks
- Customizable with sweet or savory toppings
- Uses minimal ingredients for maximum flavor
- A perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, and fresh
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
- 1–2 tablespoons heavy cream or olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- 1 baguette, sliced into ½-inch rounds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for brushing)
- Optional toppings: honey, roasted cherry tomatoes, crushed pistachios, lemon zest, balsamic glaze, fresh herbs (like thyme, basil, or chives)
directions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet and brush with olive oil.
- Toast in the oven for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp.
- In a food processor or with a hand mixer, blend ricotta with cream or olive oil until light and fluffy (about 1–2 minutes). Season with salt to taste.
- Spoon or pipe whipped ricotta onto each toasted crostini.
- Add desired toppings—drizzle with honey, top with roasted tomatoes, sprinkle with herbs or crushed nuts.
- Serve immediately.
Servings and timing
- Servings: 12 crostini (approximately)
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Variations
- Add lemon zest and a touch of honey for a bright, sweet option
- Top with roasted grapes, figs, or strawberries for a fruity twist
- Make it savory with roasted tomatoes, garlic confit, or prosciutto
- Use whipped feta or goat cheese instead of ricotta for a tangy variation
- Add a swirl of hot honey or chili flakes for a spicy kick
storage/reheating
- Store whipped ricotta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days
- Crostini can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container for 2–3 days
- Assemble just before serving to maintain crispness
- Not suitable for freezing
FAQs
Can I make whipped ricotta without a food processor?
Yes, a hand mixer or whisk will also work—just whip until smooth and fluffy.
Can I make the crostini in advance?
Yes, toast the bread ahead and store in an airtight container; assemble when ready to serve.
What kind of ricotta should I use?
Use whole milk ricotta for the best texture and richness.
Can I add garlic to the ricotta?
Yes, a small amount of roasted or minced garlic adds great flavor.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
It can be—just use gluten-free bread or crackers as a base.
How do I make the crostini extra crispy?
Brush with olive oil and toast a bit longer for an extra crunch.
Can I use other cheeses?
Yes, whipped goat cheese or feta can be used as alternatives.
What wines pair well with this dish?
A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a sparkling wine works well.
Are there vegan alternatives?
Use a plant-based ricotta or cashew spread for a vegan option.
Can I serve this warm?
Yes, warm whipped ricotta slightly for a cozy variation, especially with savory toppings.
Conclusion
Whipped Ricotta Crostini is a crowd-pleasing, elegant appetizer that’s as versatile as it is delicious. Whether dressed up with sweet toppings or served savory with herbs and tomatoes, it’s a dish that fits any occasion. Easy to make and beautiful to present, it’s sure to be a favorite on your appetizer table.
Print
Whipped Ricotta Crostini
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 crostini 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Whipped Ricotta Crostini is a simple yet elegant appetizer featuring creamy ricotta spread over toasted baguette slices, topped with various sweet or savory garnishes.
Ingredients
- 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
- 1 tbsp honey (optional, for sweet version)
- 1/2 tsp lemon zest
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh herbs (such as thyme, basil, or chives), for garnish
- Toppings like cherry tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or honey and figs (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet and brush lightly with olive oil.
- Toast in the oven for 8–10 minutes, or until golden and crisp. Set aside to cool slightly.
- In a food processor or mixing bowl, whip ricotta with lemon zest, salt, and pepper until light and smooth (about 1–2 minutes).
- Spread whipped ricotta onto toasted baguette slices.
- Top with your choice of garnishes—drizzle with honey and figs for sweet, or roasted tomatoes and herbs for savory.
- Garnish with fresh herbs and serve immediately.
Notes
- Use fresh, high-quality ricotta for best results.
- Customize toppings to fit seasonal ingredients or taste preferences.
- Can be prepared in advance and assembled just before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 crostini
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 10mg