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+ servings

Fig and Honey Ricotta Tart with Thyme

A rustic California-inspired tart with a flaky crust, creamy ricotta and thyme filling, topped with fresh figs and honey.
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 1
Course: Dessert, Tarts
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 340

Ingredients
  

Crust
  • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
  • 1 large egg yolk, room temperature
  • 2 to 3 tablespoons ice water
Filling
  • 1 cup whole milk ricotta preferably fresh
  • 2 tablespoons honey such as California orange blossom
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves, finely chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon Meyer lemon zest or regular lemon zest
Topping
  • 5 to 6 fresh Mission figs, sliced or other ripe figs
  • 2 tablespoons honey for drizzling
  • fresh thyme sprigs for garnish

Method
 

Make the Crust
  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the cold butter cubes and cut them into the flour using a pastry blender or your fingertips until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs with some pea-sized butter pieces, about 3 to 5 minutes.
  2. Stir in the egg yolk. Add the ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing gently with a fork until the dough just holds together when pressed. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Prepare the Filling
  1. While the dough chills, in a medium bowl, whisk together the ricotta, 2 tablespoons honey, chopped thyme, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
Assemble and Bake
  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a rough 12-inch circle, about 1/8-inch thick. Transfer the dough to the prepared baking sheet.
  3. Spread the ricotta filling evenly over the dough, leaving a 2-inch border around the edges. Arrange the sliced figs on top in a single layer, slightly overlapping them.
  4. Fold the edges of the dough over the filling, pleating as needed to form a rustic border. Lightly brush the exposed dough edges with a little water or a beaten egg for a golden finish.
  5. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, until the crust is golden brown and the figs are soft and slightly caramelized. Check after 30 minutes to prevent over-browning.
  6. Remove from the oven and immediately drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons honey over the warm tart. Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs. Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 340kcalCarbohydrates: 42gProtein: 7gFat: 17gSaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 210mgFiber: 2gSugar: 24g

Notes

For a nuttier crust, substitute 1/4 cup of the flour with almond flour. If figs are not in season, you can use sliced ripe pears or nectarines as a substitute. Store leftovers loosely covered at room temperature for up to 1 day; refrigerate for longer storage but bring to room temperature before serving. To make ahead, prepare the dough and filling separately up to 1 day in advance and assemble just before baking. Be careful not to overwork the dough or it will become tough. Serve with a dollop of fresh cream or a scoop of vanilla gelato for extra indulgence.

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