Ricotta Cream With Amareta

Ricotta Cream with Amaretti

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

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Ingredients

For the Ricotta Cream:

• 1 ½ cups (375g) ricotta cheese (whole-milk preferred, well-drained)
• ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar or powdered sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon almond extract (optional, for a more nutty flavor)
• Zest of 1 lemon or orange (optional, for a fresh citrus note)
• ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream, chilled

For the Amaretti Topping:

• 10–12 amaretti cookies, crushed
• 1 tablespoon cocoa powder (optional)
• 2 tablespoons dark chocolate shavings (optional, for garnish)

Optional Additions:

• 2 tablespoons coffee liqueur (like Kahlúa) or Amaretto (almond liqueur)
• Fresh berries (strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries) for garnish
• A sprig of fresh mint

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Ricotta Mixture

1. Place the ricotta cheese in a fine mesh sieve over a bowl to drain any excess liquid. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes, especially if it’s very wet. This step ensures a creamy, thick texture.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained ricotta, sugar, vanilla extract, almond extract (if using), and citrus zest. Use a hand whisk or an electric mixer to blend until smooth and creamy.

2. Whip the Cream

1. In a separate chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream using an electric mixer or whisk until soft peaks form. Be careful not to over-whip.
2. Gently fold the whipped cream into the ricotta mixture. Use a spatula to incorporate the cream without deflating it, ensuring a light and airy texture.

3. Assemble the Dessert

1. Take 4 serving glasses or dessert bowls and spoon a layer of the ricotta cream into each one.
2. Sprinkle a generous layer of crushed amaretti cookies over the cream. For added flavor, drizzle a little coffee liqueur or Amaretto over the cookies (optional).
3. Add another layer of ricotta cream, smoothing the top with the back of a spoon.

4. Garnish

1. Sprinkle more crushed amaretti cookies on top.
2. For extra indulgence, dust the surface lightly with cocoa powder and scatter dark chocolate shavings.
3. Garnish with fresh berries and a mint sprig for a colorful, elegant finish.

5. Chill and Serve

1. Cover the dessert glasses with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to firm up slightly.
2. Serve chilled with a spoon, savoring the layers of creamy ricotta and crunchy amaretti.

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Tips for Success

1. Choose Quality Ricotta: Opt for fresh, high-quality ricotta for the best flavor. If you can’t find ricotta, mascarpone can be used as a substitute.
2. Amaretti Cookies: Traditional amaretti cookies bring authentic Italian flavor. Substitute with any almond-flavored cookie or biscotti if amaretti are unavailable.
3. Texture Matters: If you prefer an ultra-smooth ricotta cream, pass the ricotta through a fine sieve before mixing with other ingredients.
4. Customizable Flavors: For a fruity twist, layer the dessert with fruit preserves or diced fresh fruit between the ricotta and amaretti layers.

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Variations

1. Tiramisu Style: Soak the amaretti cookies in espresso before layering for a coffee-flavored dessert.
2. Citrus Burst: Use orange or lemon curd as an additional layer for a tangy touch.
3. Nutty Crunch: Add toasted almonds or hazelnuts between the layers for an extra crunch.

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Nutritional Information

(Per serving)

• Calories: ~250
• Protein: 8g
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Sugars: 18g

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This Ricotta Cream with Amaretti is a perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, and sweet flavors. It’s an easy yet elegant dessert that’s sure to impress!