Sweet Ricotta Phyllo Purses Recipe

Introduction

Phyllo Purses with Sweet Ricotta are a charming and delectable pastry that combines the flaky, crispy texture of thin phyllo dough with a rich, sweetened ricotta cheese filling. These miniature pastries, traditionally inspired by Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines, are perfect for special occasions, brunches, or as an elegant dessert for dinner parties. Their delicate structure and luscious filling make them a crowd-pleaser, offering a harmonious balance of crunch and creaminess. The process of creating these purses involves careful handling of phyllo dough, precise folding techniques, and a flavorful filling that can be customized to suit your taste preferences. As a recipe featured on Love With Recipes, this dish exemplifies how simple ingredients and thoughtful preparation can produce a sophisticated and visually appealing treat that leaves a lasting impression.

Time

Total Time: 30 minutes
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Needed Equipment

• Oven
• Mixing bowls
• Pastry brush (or small brush)
• Sharp knife or kitchen scissors
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheet (preferably parchment-lined)
• Spatula or tongs
• Cooling rack
• Small spoon or piping bag (optional for filling)
• Cloth or damp towel (to cover phyllo to prevent drying)

Tags

Sweet, Pastry, Mediterranean, Finger Food, Dessert, Baked Goods, Elegant, Quick

Serving Size

Each batch yields approximately 10 phyllo purses, with each purse serving as one individual portion. For larger gatherings or buffets, you can increase the batch size accordingly.

Difficulty Level

Intermediate. While handling phyllo dough requires some patience and finesse, the assembly process is straightforward. Attention to detail during folding and sealing ensures the purses hold their shape and do not leak during baking.

Allergen Information

Note: For gluten-free or dairy-free versions, substitute with appropriate alternatives such as gluten-free phyllo or dairy-free cheese spreads.

Dietary Preference

Vegetarian. These purses do not contain any meat products but do include dairy. For vegan options, replace ricotta with plant-based cheese and butter with vegan margarine or oil.

Course

Dessert, Snack, Appetizer

Cuisine

Mediterranean, Middle Eastern

Ingredients

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Begin by setting your oven to 400°F (200°C). Proper preheating ensures that the purses bake evenly and develop that perfect golden, crispy exterior. Place the oven rack in the middle position for consistent heat distribution. While the oven is preheating, prepare your workspace and ingredients to streamline the assembly process.

Prepare the Phyllo Dough

Carefully remove the phyllo sheets from their packaging, keeping them covered with a damp cloth to prevent drying and cracking. Working swiftly but delicately, stack the sheets neatly on a clean, dry surface. Use a sharp knife or kitchen scissors to cut the stacked sheets into 4 rows and 4 columns, creating 16 roughly equal squares. This uniformity ensures consistent shaping and baking.

Butter and Cinnamon

Using a small pastry brush, lightly coat four of the phyllo squares with melted unsalted butter. Be gentle, ensuring an even coating without saturating the dough, which could cause tearing. After buttering, sprinkle a small pinch of ground cinnamon over each buttered square to add warm, aromatic flavor. The cinnamon not only enhances the taste but also adds visual appeal with tiny flecks of spice.

Prepare the Ricotta Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Use a whisk or spoon to blend the ingredients thoroughly until smooth and creamy. This step is crucial for a homogeneous filling that will hold together inside the delicate phyllo purses. For a slightly richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of lemon zest or a splash of almond extract, depending on your flavor preferences.

Assemble the Purses

Place a small spoonful (about 1 teaspoon) of the sweet ricotta mixture in the center of each buttered and cinnamon-dusted square. Be careful not to overfill, as this could cause the purses to burst open during baking. Gently lift each corner of the square toward the center, pinching or folding the edges together to create a purse shape. The goal is to seal the filling inside, so ensure the edges are pressed firmly together. If needed, dab a tiny bit of melted butter along the edges to help seal and prevent leakage.

Baking

Carefully transfer each assembled purse onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Arrange them with some space between each to promote even baking. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 5 to 7 minutes, or until the purses are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them during the last minute to prevent over-browning. The goal is a beautiful, crisp exterior that encases the luscious filling inside.

Cooling and Garnishing

Once baked, remove the purses from the oven and transfer them to a cooling rack. Allow them to cool for a few minutes, which makes handling easier and prevents burns. For presentation, garnish each purse with a dollop of whipped cream or a dusting of powdered sugar. Adding a sprig of fresh mint enhances visual appeal and provides a refreshing aroma that complements the sweetness of the ricotta filling.

Preparation Tips

• Handling Phyllo Dough: Always keep the sheets covered with a damp cloth while working to prevent drying out and cracking. Use a gentle touch when handling to avoid tearing.
• Sealing the Purses: Use a small brush dipped in melted butter to lightly seal the edges, which helps prevent leakage during baking.
• Filling Variations: For added texture, mix in mini chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried fruit into the ricotta mixture.
• Serving Temperature: These purses are best enjoyed warm or at room temperature shortly after baking to enjoy the contrast of flaky exterior and creamy interior.

Nutritional Information

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific brands of ingredients and portion sizes.

Tips and Tricks

• Work Quickly with Phyllo: The key to success with phyllo is swift, confident handling. Keep unused sheets covered to prevent drying out.
• Seal Effectively: Slightly dampened edges or a brush of melted butter ensures the purses stay closed during baking, preventing filling leakage.
• Customization: Experiment with filling flavors, adding citrus zest, chocolate, or spices to tailor to your preference.
• Presentation: Serve on a beautiful platter, dusted with powdered sugar or drizzled with honey for an elegant touch.

Add-ons

• Fresh berries or fruit preserves inside the purses for a fruitier flavor
• Chocolate chips mixed into ricotta for a chocolatey variation
• Chopped nuts like pistachios or almonds for added crunch
• A drizzle of honey or caramel sauce before serving

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad
• Greek yogurt with honey and nuts
• Light citrus sorbet
• Herb-infused green salad with vinaigrette

Improvements

• Use Puff Pastry: Substitute with puff pastry for a different flaky texture, but adjust baking time accordingly.
• Vegan Version: Replace ricotta with blended silken tofu or cashew cheese and butter with coconut oil or vegan margarine.
• Flavor Enhancers: Add a splash of liqueur such as Amaretto or Grand Marnier to the filling for a sophisticated twist.
• Presentation: Serve in decorative paper cups or mini muffin tins for individual presentation.

Save and Store

These purses are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored for up to 1 day in an airtight container at room temperature. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes until crispy. Avoid refrigerating, as the phyllo can become soggy upon moisture absorption. For longer storage, freeze baked purses in a single layer, then transfer to a zip-top bag. Reheat directly from frozen in the oven for best results.

FAQ

Can I prepare these in advance?

While they are best served fresh, you can assemble the purses a few hours ahead, refrigerate them covered, and bake just before serving. Do not assemble too far in advance, as the phyllo may become soggy.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, substitute regular phyllo with gluten-free phyllo dough available at specialty stores. Keep in mind that gluten-free dough may behave differently, so handle carefully and adjust baking time if necessary.

Is there a vegan alternative?

Absolutely. Swap ricotta for a vegan cheese or blended silken tofu, and use vegan butter or oil. Sweetening and flavorings can be adjusted accordingly. The texture may vary slightly but will still be delicious.

Conclusion

Creating Phyllo Purses with Sweet Ricotta is a rewarding culinary project that combines delicate craftsmanship with luscious flavor. Their elegant appearance and versatile filling options make them suitable for a variety of occasions, from casual gatherings to festive celebrations. The contrast of crispy layers and creamy filling provides a sensory delight, while customization options allow for personal touch and creativity. Whether served as a refined dessert or a sweet snack, these purses are sure to impress and satisfy. For more inspiring recipes and culinary tips, visit Love With Recipes, where every dish is crafted to bring joy and flavor to your table.

References

Traditional Mediterranean pastry techniques adapted from Classic Pastry Techniques by Julia Child and Middle Eastern Sweets & Desserts by Anissa Helou.