Rikotta Cheese Cakes
Rikotta Cheese Cakes Recipe from Malta
Introduction
Ricotta cheese cakes are a delicious and savory treat that can be enjoyed as a snack or appetizer. These flaky pastries are filled with a creamy ricotta cheese mixture and baked to golden perfection. They are perfect for serving at parties or gatherings, and are sure to impress your guests with their rich and flavorful taste.
History
Ricotta cheese cakes have been a popular dish in Italian cuisine for centuries. The combination of flaky pastry and creamy ricotta cheese has been a favorite among food lovers for generations. Originally, these cakes were made with homemade ricotta cheese, which gave them a unique and authentic flavor. Today, ricotta cheese cakes can be found in bakeries and restaurants all over the world, and are enjoyed by people of all ages.
Ingredients
For the Pastry
How to prepare
- Mix the sieved flour and salt with approximately 200 ml of cold water to form a soft, pliable, but not sticky dough. Knead well and let it rest for about 90 minutes.
- After resting, roll, stretch, and pull the dough on a floured surface into long strips. Spread half of the fat evenly over the entire length of the dough, using a palette knife and then clean hands. Starting from one end, roll up the dough tightly like a Swiss roll, making it uneven at times and looser at others. Rest it in the refrigerator.
- Repeat the rolling and resting process to form another long strip. Spread the remaining fat evenly and roll it up again like a Swiss roll, this time in a different direction from the first roll. These rolling steps enhance the flakiness of the finished pastry. Rest it again.
- Mash the ricotta with salt and pepper. Add the beaten eggs. Using a sharp knife, cut off pieces of dough the size of a small ball. Pull out each piece with your fingers to form a thin disc.
- Place a spoonful of the ricotta mixture in the center of each disc. Close the dough around the filling and seal the edges with your fingers. Place the filled pastries on a lightly oiled baking sheet and bake at 200°C / 400°F / Gas Mark 6 for 25 minutes or until golden.
Variations
- Add chopped herbs or spices to the ricotta cheese filling for extra flavor.
- Substitute the ricotta cheese with goat cheese or feta for a different taste.
- Top the ricotta cheese cakes with a drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze for a sweet and savory twist.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to knead the dough well and let it rest for at least 90 minutes to ensure a soft and pliable texture.
- Rolling and stretching the dough multiple times will enhance the flakiness of the pastry.
- Be generous with the ricotta cheese filling, as it is the star of the dish.
- Seal the edges of the pastries tightly to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking.
- Bake the ricotta cheese cakes until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Serving Suggestions
Ricotta cheese cakes can be served as a snack, appetizer, or even a light meal. They pair well with a side salad or a bowl of soup.
Cooking Techniques
Kneading the dough well and letting it rest will ensure a soft and pliable texture.
- Rolling and stretching the dough multiple times will enhance the flakiness of the pastry.
- Baking the ricotta cheese cakes at a high temperature will result in a crispy and golden brown crust.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use store-bought puff pastry instead of making the dough from scratch.
- Substitute the ricotta cheese with cottage cheese or cream cheese if desired.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the ricotta cheese cakes ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake. They can also be frozen and baked at a later time.
Presentation Ideas
Serve the ricotta cheese cakes on a platter with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil for an elegant presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Ricotta cheese cakes pair well with a glass of white wine or a refreshing iced tea.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftover ricotta cheese cakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of ricotta cheese cakes contains approximately 250 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of ricotta cheese cakes contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of ricotta cheese cakes contains approximately 15 grams of fats.
Proteins
Each serving of ricotta cheese cakes contains approximately 10 grams of proteins.
Vitamins and minerals
Ricotta cheese cakes are a good source of calcium, vitamin A, and vitamin D.
Alergens
Ricotta cheese cakes contain dairy and gluten.
Summary
Ricotta cheese cakes are a delicious and indulgent treat that are high in fats and proteins, but also contain essential vitamins and minerals.
Summary
Ricotta cheese cakes are a delicious and savory treat that are perfect for any occasion. With a flaky pastry crust and a creamy ricotta cheese filling, these cakes are sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy them as a snack, appetizer, or light meal, and savor the rich and flavorful taste of these delectable pastries.
How did I get this recipe?
The first time I saw this recipe, I was drawn to it like a magnet. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her quaint little kitchen. Maria was a fabulous cook, always trying out new recipes and experimenting with different flavors. On this particular day, she was making Ricotta Cheese Cakes, a delicious Italian dessert that I had never tried before.
As I watched Maria work her magic in the kitchen, I couldn't help but be mesmerized by the ingredients she was using. The creamy ricotta cheese, the sweet vanilla extract, the zesty lemon zest – it all seemed to come together in perfect harmony. Maria explained to me that these cheese cakes were a traditional Italian dessert, passed down through generations of her family.
I was determined to learn how to make this delectable treat, so I asked Maria to teach me her recipe. She graciously agreed and took me under her wing, guiding me through each step of the process. We started by mixing together the ricotta cheese, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Maria showed me how to fold in the lemon zest and flour, creating a light and fluffy batter.
Once the batter was ready, Maria spooned it into individual ramekins and placed them in the oven to bake. As the cheese cakes cooked, the sweet aroma filled the kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation. Finally, after what seemed like an eternity, the cheese cakes were done and ready to be enjoyed.
Maria served them warm, dusted with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and a dollop of whipped cream. I took my first bite and was immediately transported to a world of pure bliss. The creamy texture of the ricotta cheese, combined with the subtle sweetness of the sugar and the tangy zest of the lemon, was a culinary delight unlike anything I had ever tasted.
From that day on, I was hooked. I made Ricotta Cheese Cakes every chance I got, perfecting the recipe and adding my own little twists along the way. I experimented with different flavors, adding fresh berries or a drizzle of honey to create new and exciting variations of this classic dessert.
Over the years, I shared my recipe with friends and family, spreading the joy of Ricotta Cheese Cakes far and wide. Each time I made them, I was transported back to that warm summer day in Maria's kitchen, where my love affair with this delectable dessert began.
Now, as I pass on this recipe to you, my dear grandchild, I hope that you will find as much joy and satisfaction in making these cheese cakes as I have. Remember, cooking is not just about following a recipe – it's about creating something beautiful and delicious to share with the ones you love. So go ahead, roll up your sleeves, and get baking. I promise you won't be disappointed. Enjoy!