Easter Ricotta and Chocolate Tart Recipe
This delightful Easter Ricotta and Chocolate Tart, also known as “Crostata Pasquale alla Ricotta e Cioccolata,” is the perfect combination of creamy ricotta and rich dark chocolate, wrapped in a buttery, crisp pastry crust. Ideal for special occasions like Easter, this dessert is as delicious as it is beautiful. With a velvety ricotta filling and the perfect balance of sweetness and texture, it’s sure to become a favorite on your dessert table.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| 00 Flour | 360g |
| Butter (cold, cut into pieces) | 180g |
| Condensed Milk | 140g |
| Fine Salt | to taste |
| Ricotta Cheese (cow’s milk) | 600g |
| Condensed Milk | 150g |
| Dark Chocolate Chips | 100g |
| Vanilla Pod | 1 |
| Orange Zest | 1 |
| Egg | 1 |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pastry Dough
To begin, you will need to make the shortcrust pastry (pasta frolla) for the tart. Start by placing the 00 flour, a pinch of fine salt, and the cold butter (cut into pieces) into a food processor. The butter should be cold to achieve the perfect flaky texture in the crust. Pulse the ingredients together until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs with a sandy texture.
Next, transfer the mixture to a clean work surface and form a well in the center, similar to a traditional pasta fountain. This is where you’ll add the remaining ingredients to bind the dough together.
Step 2: Add Flavoring and Form the Dough
Into the well, add the seeds scraped from the vanilla pod, and the zest of one orange. The combination of these ingredients will infuse the pastry with delightful, aromatic flavors. Crack one egg into the center and add the condensed milk. With your hands, quickly work the mixture together, using a gentle folding motion to bring it all together. Once the dough starts to form, knead it gently for a few minutes until smooth.
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
Once your dough is smooth, wrap it in plastic wrap and place it in the fridge for about 30 minutes. Chilling the dough helps to make it more manageable and ensures that it holds its shape during baking.
After chilling, roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface until it reaches a thickness of about 3 mm. Line a 24 cm (9-inch) tart pan with the dough, pressing it gently into the sides and base of the pan. Trim any excess dough using a sharp knife or a pastry wheel, ensuring that the edges are neat.
Step 4: Prepare the Ricotta and Chocolate Filling
Now, let’s prepare the creamy filling. In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, the remaining 150g of condensed milk, and the dark chocolate chips. Use a spatula or a whisk to mix everything together until the mixture is smooth and uniform. The chocolate chips will melt into the mixture, adding richness and texture to the filling.
Step 5: Assemble the Tart
Carefully pour the ricotta and chocolate mixture into the prepared tart shell. Use the back of a spoon to spread it evenly and smooth the surface.
With any leftover dough, roll it out and cut into strips about 1 cm wide. Arrange these strips in a crisscross pattern over the top of the tart to create a decorative lattice effect. This will not only enhance the look of the tart but also allow some of the filling to peek through, giving a glimpse of the deliciousness inside.
Step 6: Bake the Tart
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the tart for about 35 to 40 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the filling is set. The tart should be slightly puffed and firm to the touch.
Once baked, remove the tart from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan. This will give the filling time to firm up and ensure that the tart holds its shape when sliced.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once cooled, carefully remove the tart from the pan and place it on a serving platter. Slice it into generous pieces and serve. This tart is best enjoyed chilled, and it can be topped with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted chocolate for an extra touch of elegance.
Whether you’re celebrating Easter, a special occasion, or simply treating yourself, this Easter Ricotta and Chocolate Tart is sure to impress. The sweet and creamy ricotta filling pairs perfectly with the bitterness of dark chocolate and the fragrant citrus of orange zest, all nestled in a buttery, golden crust. A true dessert masterpiece!
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 kcal |
| Protein | 6g |
| Carbohydrates | 55g |
| Sugars | 28g |
| Fat | 24g |
| Saturated Fat | 14g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 40mg |
| Cholesterol | 85mg |
This recipe will yield approximately 8 servings, making it perfect for sharing with family and friends. Enjoy the comforting flavors of ricotta and chocolate in a rich, flaky crust – a true treat for the senses!
