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Whipped Ricotta Toast with Balsamic Cherries

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Whipped Ricotta Toast with Balsamic Cherries is a sophisticated yet simple dish that elevates the humble toast to an elegant appetizer, snack, or even light meal. Creamy, airy whipped ricotta cheese is spread generously on toasted bread and topped with sweet-tart balsamic-glazed cherries, creating a delightful contrast of flavors and textures. A sprinkle of sea salt and a drizzle of honey (optional) complete this irresistible combination. It’s a perfect balance of savory and sweet, making it a delightful treat any time of day.

Ingredients

Scale

Gather these ingredients to make Whipped Ricotta Toast with Balsamic Cherries:

  • 4 slices of bread (sourdough, baguette, or your favorite)
  • 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
  • 1 tablespoon heavy cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound fresh cherries, pitted and halved
  • ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar (or honey/maple syrup)
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Sea salt, to taste
  • Honey or maple syrup, for drizzling (optional)
  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Whipped Ricotta:

  1. Drain the Ricotta (Optional): If your ricotta seems watery, drain it in a fine-mesh sieve lined with cheesecloth for about 30 minutes to remove excess moisture.

  2. Whip the Ricotta: In a mixing bowl, use an electric mixer or a whisk to whip the ricotta cheese until light and airy, about 2-3 minutes. Add the heavy cream (if using) for extra creaminess and whip until combined.

Make the Balsamic Cherries:

  1. Cook the Cherries: Heat the olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the pitted and halved cherries, balsamic vinegar, brown sugar (or honey/maple syrup), and red pepper flakes (if using).

  2. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cherries have softened slightly and the sauce has thickened into a glaze.

  3. Cool: Remove the skillet from the heat and let the cherries cool slightly.

Toast the Bread:

  1. Toast: Toast the bread slices to your desired level of crispness, either in a toaster, under a broiler, or in a skillet with a little olive oil.

Assemble the Toast:

  1. Spread Ricotta: Spread a generous layer of whipped ricotta cheese onto each slice of toasted bread.

  2. Top with Cherries: Spoon the balsamic cherries over the whipped ricotta, distributing them evenly.

  3. Garnish: Sprinkle with sea salt and drizzle with honey or maple syrup (if desired). Garnish with fresh basil leaves (if using).

Serve:

  1. Serve Immediately: Serve the Whipped Ricotta Toast with Balsamic Cherries immediately while the toast is still warm and the ricotta is creamy.

Equipment

Nutrition