Plum and Ricotta Cheese Tart

Delicious Plum and Ricotta Cheese Tart

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 55 minutes
Servings: 8

Introduction
Enjoy a fine and fragrant tart that combines the sweetness of plums with the creaminess of Ricotta cheese. This plum and Ricotta cheese tart recipe is not only delicious but also an excellent choice for a quick dessert, perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a gathering with friends, a festive meal, or simply a quiet evening at home, this dessert will surely bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones.

Recipe History
The plum and Ricotta cheese tart has deep roots in culinary tradition, inspired by classic tart recipes that highlight seasonal fruits. By combining Ricotta cheese with plums, a creamy texture is created, perfectly contrasting with the crunchy crust, offering a unique tasting experience.

Necessary Ingredients
For the dough:
- 120 g flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- a pinch of salt
- 2 egg yolks
- 60 g butter, diced
- dried beans (for weighing the dough)

For the filling:
- 200 g Ricotta cheese
- 100 g cottage cheese
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 250-300 g canned plums
- fruit jelly (preferably red)

Preparation Steps
1. Preparing the dough
Start with the dough. In a large bowl, add the flour, sugar, and salt. These are the basic ingredients that will form the tart crust. Make a well in the center of the mixture and add the cold butter cubes and egg yolks. Cold butter is essential for achieving a flaky crust.

2. Kneading the dough
Using your fingers or a spatula, mix the ingredients in the well, gradually incorporating the flour until you achieve a smooth dough. It is important not to over-knead, as we want to keep the dough light. Once the dough is formed, wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for an hour. This step helps to firm up the butter and achieve a tender crust.

3. Baking the dough
After the dough has chilled, preheat the oven to 180°C. Grease a tart pan with butter to prevent sticking. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a thin layer, then place it in the prepared pan. It is important to ensure that the dough evenly covers the edges of the pan.

4. Pre-baking the crust
Cover the dough with parchment paper and pour beans on top to prevent the dough from puffing up during baking. Bake the crust in the oven for 10-20 minutes, until it becomes lightly golden. After 20 minutes, remove the paper and beans and bake the dough for another 5 minutes until it is nicely browned. Let it cool.

5. Preparing the filling
In a bowl, combine the Ricotta cheese, cottage cheese, and honey. Mix well until you achieve a smooth cream. This creamy filling will add a touch of sweetness and balance the acidity of the plums.

6. Assembling the tart
Once the dough has completely cooled, spread the cheese filling evenly over the crust, smoothing the surface. Then, arrange the canned plums on top, ensuring they are evenly distributed. The plums add a delightful flavor and pleasant texture.

7. Finishing and cooling
Prepare the jelly and, using a brush, generously apply it over the plums. This step not only adds a shiny appearance but also helps retain the moisture of the plums. Cover the tart with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1-2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and stabilize.

Serving Suggestions
The plum and Ricotta cheese tart can be served plain or accompanied by a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, which will add a touch of indulgence. You might try adding some toasted nuts for an extra crunch and flavor.

Nutritional Benefits
This tart is a good source of protein and calcium due to the Ricotta cheese and contains antioxidants from the plums, which are good for heart health. Additionally, honey adds a touch of natural sweetness, eliminating the need for refined sugar.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use other fruits instead of plums?
Of course! Other fruits like apples, pears, or apricots are excellent alternatives that can be used in this recipe.

2. What type of jelly is most suitable?
Raspberry or strawberry jelly offers a pleasant flavor, but any fruit jelly will work well.

3. How can I store the tart?
The plum and Ricotta cheese tart keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, covered with plastic wrap.

4. Can I make the dough in advance?
Yes, the dough can be prepared a day ahead and kept in the refrigerator or even frozen for later use.

Possible Variations
To add a touch of originality, you can incorporate spices like cinnamon or nutmeg into the cheese filling. Additionally, adding lemon or orange zest will provide a fresh and vibrant aroma.

This plum and Ricotta cheese tart is not just a dessert, but a true delight for the senses. By preparing it with love and care, you will enjoy an unforgettable culinary experience that you will want to share with all your loved ones. Savor each slice and let yourself be carried away by its flavors!