Italian Almond & Ricotta Tart

Name: Italian Almond & Ricotta Tart
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1½ cups all-purpose flour; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; ¼ cup powdered sugar; 1 large egg; 1 cup ricotta cheese; ¾ cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon orange zest; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ½ cup sliced almonds; ¼ cup dark chocolate, melted

by Vincent

Published on: December 18, 2025

Delicious Italian Almond Ricotta Tart with almond slices and a golden crust.

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Italian Almond & Ricotta Tart is a delightful treat that combines creamy ricotta with crunchy almonds, producing a symphony of textures. Its golden, flaky crust cradles a silky filling that’s subtly fragrant with orange zest and hints of vanilla. As the tart bakes, your kitchen fills with a warm, inviting aroma that beckons everyone to gather around. This recipe is special because it’s easy to make, utilizing seasonal and sustainable ingredients. Perfect for celebrations or just a cozy evening at home, this tart is sure to impress with every bite.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Italian Almond & Ricotta Tart is an ideal choice for various occasions—be it a festive dinner, family gathering, or an intimate dessert for two. Quick to whip up and bursting with flavor, this recipe is as versatile as it is delicious. The creamy ricotta filling perfectly balances the crunch of the almond topping, making every slice a treat for the senses. Plus, its simple preparation means you can easily make this dessert any day of the week!

Seasonal Ingredients Spotlight

The ingredients for Italian Almond & Ricotta Tart highlight the best of the season. Bright, zesty oranges add a refreshing burst of flavor, while creamy ricotta cheese offers a luscious texture that’s both satisfying and light. Sliced almonds not only provide a lovely crunch but also bring a delicate nuttiness to the dish. The combination of these fresh, local ingredients results in a tart that looks as beautiful as it tastes, with vibrant colors and enticing aromas that celebrate nature’s bounty.

What You’ll Need

To make this delightful tart, gather the following ingredients:

1½ cups all-purpose flour
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
¼ cup powdered sugar
1 large egg
1 cup ricotta cheese
¾ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon orange zest
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup sliced almonds
¼ cup dark chocolate, melted

Feel free to experiment with substitutions. For a gluten-free version, you can use a gluten-free flour blend. If you’re aiming for a dairy-free option, consider using a plant-based ricotta substitute.

How to Make This Recipe

1. Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). A properly heated oven is key to achieving a perfectly baked tart.

2. Prepare the Base

In a bowl, combine the flour, softened butter, and powdered sugar. Mix until crumbly, resembling coarse sand. Add the egg and knead until a smooth dough forms. Press the dough into a tart pan, ensuring even coverage along the sides.

3. Mix the Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the ricotta cheese, granulated sugar, eggs, orange zest, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy, creating an inviting aroma.

4. Assemble the Tart

Pour the ricotta mixture over the prepared crust and spread it evenly. The luscious filling should sit comfortably atop the base.

5. Top with Almonds

Sprinkle the sliced almonds generously on top, adding a crunchy layer to your tart.

6. Bake

Place the tart in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden and set. The tart should have a lightly firm surface, and the aroma will fill your kitchen.

7. Cool and Drizzle

Allow the tart to cool before drizzling with melted dark chocolate for an elegant finish. The contrast of dark chocolate against the golden tart is visually stunning.

Essential Tools

To successfully create your Italian Almond & Ricotta Tart, you’ll need a few essential tools:

Mixing bowls
A whisk and spoon for blending
A tart pan (9-inch recommended)
Baking sheet for catching drips
Parchment paper (optional, for easy removal)
Rubber spatula for spreading

Meal Prep & Storage Tips

For meal prep, this tart can be made a day ahead, allowing the flavors to meld. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For long-term storage, slice and freeze the tart for up to a month, ensuring it’s well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

Perfect Pairings

This Italian Almond & Ricotta Tart pairs wonderfully with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to enhance the dessert experience. For a beverage, consider serving it with sweet dessert wine or a rich cappuccino. The visual presentation of the tart, complemented by a scoop of ice cream, creates an enticing dessert display.

Nutrition Facts

Here’s a quick nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 12 servings):

Calories: ~180 kcal
Fat: 8 g
Carbohydrates: 24 g
Protein: 3 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 14 g

Avoid These Common Pitfalls

Dough Too Dry: If your dough appears too crumbly, add a splash of milk until it’s pliable.

Chocolate Coating Breaks: To prevent the chocolate from hardening too quickly, ensure it’s smooth and slightly warm before drizzling.

Unevenly Shaped Base: Use your hands or the bottom of a measuring cup to create an even layer when pressing the dough into the tart pan.

Pro Tips for Best Results

Amateur bakers and pros alike can benefit from these tips:

For the best flavor, use fresh ricotta and organic oranges.
Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature to achieve a uniform consistency.
Consider adding a hint of almond extract for an extra layer of flavor.

Recipe Variations to Explore

Feel free to customize this tart to your taste:

Substitute the almonds with chopped pistachios for a vibrant color contrast.
Try adding mixed berries atop the ricotta before baking for a fruity twist.
Experiment with different citrus zests like lemon or lime for a refreshing alternative.

Dietary Adaptations & Safety Info

This recipe can be adapted for various dietary preferences:

For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free flour.
A dairy-free alternative can be made by using plant-based ricotta.
Always double-check for allergens, particularly with nuts.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes! Cream cheese or mascarpone can be substituted for ricotta, though they will change the flavor profile slightly.

2. How should I store leftover tart?
Keep it covered in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze individual slices for later enjoyment.

3. Can I make this tart in advance?
Absolutely! This tart holds up well and can be made a day ahead of serving.

4. What can I serve alongside this tart?
It pairs beautifully with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or a drizzle of warm chocolate sauce.

5. Can I freeze the tart?
Yes, you can freeze it! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to maintain its quality.

Final Thoughts & Next Steps

Ready to impress your friends and family with this delicious Italian Almond & Ricotta Tart? We hope you enjoy making and sharing this delightful dessert. If you love it, please leave a comment or share your creations on social media! For more delicious dessert recipes, check out our dessert category here.