Whipped Ricotta Crostini with Roasted Strawberries – Elegant and Easy

These Whipped Ricotta Crostini with Roasted Strawberries & Balsamic Glaze are a bright, summery twist on an appetizer favorite. Crisp sourdough meets cloud-like ricotta, sweet roasted strawberries, and a rich balsamic reduction — all finished with a touch of fresh mint. It’s the kind of bite that surprises, delights, and disappears fast at any gathering.

Ingredients

• 1 baguette or sourdough loaf, sliced into ½-inch thick pieces
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for brushing)
• 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
• 1 tsp honey (optional, for ricotta)
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 2 tbsp balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)
• Fresh mint or basil leaves, for garnish
• Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

this RECIPE

Instructions

1. Toast the Crostini:
   Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly brush baguette slices with olive oil on both sides. Bake for 8–10 minutes or until golden and crisp. Set aside.
2. Roast the Strawberries:
   Place sliced strawberries on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Sprinkle with brown sugar and a tiny pinch of salt. Roast for 15–20 minutes until juicy and slightly caramelized. Let cool.
3. Make the Whipped Ricotta:
   In a food processor or bowl, whip ricotta with honey (if using), lemon zest, and a pinch of salt until smooth and fluffy — about 1–2 minutes.
4. Assemble the Crostini:
   Spread a generous layer of whipped ricotta on each crostini. Top with a few slices of roasted strawberries. Drizzle with balsamic glaze, sprinkle with black pepper, and garnish with mint or basil.

Note

• For extra creaminess, blend ricotta with a tablespoon of cream cheese.
• Make it savory by adding a smear of goat cheese or a drizzle of chili oil.
• These are best served fresh but can be prepped ahead and assembled right before serving.

Helpful Tips

1. Use High-Quality Ricotta
   Opt for full-fat ricotta that’s creamy and thick. If it’s too watery, drain it using a cheesecloth or fine mesh sieve before whipping for the smoothest texture.
2. Make It Ahead
   Toast your crostini and roast the strawberries up to a day in advance. Store the crostini in an airtight container and the strawberries in the fridge. Assemble just before serving for peak freshness.
3. DIY Balsamic Glaze
   No glaze on hand? Simmer ½ cup balsamic vinegar with 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar over low heat until thick and syrupy. Cool before drizzling.
4. Add a Crunch Factor
   Sprinkle with chopped pistachios, crushed candied pecans, or toasted almonds for texture contrast and extra flavor.
5. Go Sweet or Savory
   Want a sweeter bite? Add more honey or a sprinkle of cinnamon. Prefer a savory twist? Try black pepper, sea salt flakes, or a thin slice of prosciutto.
6. Choose the Right Bread
   Sourdough or French baguette works best for the perfect crunch-to-chew ratio. Avoid overly soft breads — they won’t hold up under toppings.
7. Serve at the Right Temp
   Let strawberries and ricotta come to room temperature before assembling to enhance their flavors. Serve crostini slightly warm or at room temp.
8. Mini Versions for Parties
   Use baguette rounds instead of longer slices to make bite-sized, party-perfect hors d’oeuvres.
9. Layer with Fresh Herbs
   Mint, basil, or thyme pairs beautifully with strawberries. Add just before serving for a pop of color and aromatic flair.
10. Experiment with Fruit
    Not strawberry season? Swap with roasted figs, peaches, or even blackberries — the ricotta base pairs well with most stone fruits or berries.

Substitutions and Variations

Ricotta Substitutes

• Goat Cheese – For a tangy, savory bite. Whip it with a little cream for spreadability.
• Mascarpone – Rich and smooth, for a more dessert-style crostini.
• Vegan Ricotta – Almond or tofu-based ricotta for a dairy-free alternative. Add lemon zest and a pinch of salt to brighten the flavor.

Fruit Variations

• Figs – Fresh or roasted, they’re naturally sweet and decadent with balsamic.
• Peaches or Nectarines – In summer, caramelized peach slices are stunning.
• Blackberries or Raspberries – Use whole or macerated berries for a bold burst.
• Roasted Grapes – Their rich, jammy sweetness pairs beautifully with ricotta and herbs.

Bread Options

• Ciabatta – Airy and chewy, perfect for soaking up balsamic glaze.
• Multigrain Bread – Adds texture and a nutty undertone.
• Gluten-Free Baguette – For a GF-friendly option that still crisps up beautifully.

Sweetener Swaps

• Maple Syrup – Adds earthy depth and works well with roasted fruit.
• Agave Nectar – Great for a milder, vegan-friendly sweetness.
• Coconut Sugar – Use when roasting fruit for a hint of caramel flavor.

Herb Enhancements

• Basil – Adds a savory-sweet Italian touch.
• Thyme – Especially lovely with figs, grapes, or blackberries.
• Rosemary – Use sparingly for a more complex aromatic profile.

Flavor Upgrades

• Chili Honey or Hot Honey – Sweet heat takes this appetizer to another level.
• Cracked Pink Peppercorns – For a subtle floral spice.
• Smoked Salt – A touch of smoky contrast enhances the sweetness of fruit.

Savory Twists

• Prosciutto or Jamón – A thin slice layered under the fruit brings salty-sweet magic.
• Caramelized Onions – For a sweet-savory contrast, especially with figs or grapes.
• Balsamic Reduction with Truffle Oil – Pure indulgence!

Pro Tips from the Test Kitchen

Offer expert insights that build trust and enhance user experience. These tips go beyond basic instructions and give your readers insider knowledge to make the dish truly shine.

Knife Skills Matter

Slice strawberries evenly to ensure they roast at the same rate and look uniform when plated — it adds to both flavor and visual appeal.

Spoon & Swipe

Instead of dolloping ricotta on the crostini, try spreading it with the back of a spoon in a swooping motion. It creates a beautiful base that cradles your toppings.

Warm It Up

Warm crostini slightly before serving to subtly melt the ricotta for an indulgent, creamy mouthfeel — especially impressive when hosting.

Room Temp Rules

Take both the ricotta and roasted strawberries out of the fridge 20 minutes before assembly. Room temperature ingredients blend better and taste brighter. Texture Layers

Want a gourmet edge? Add a micro layer of texture with flaky sea salt, crushed nuts, or edible flowers just before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make whipped ricotta ahead of time?

Yes! Whipped ricotta can be made up to 2 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Let it come to room temperature and give it a quick stir before spreading.

2. Do I need to roast the strawberries, or can I use them fresh?

Roasting enhances their sweetness and brings out deep, jammy flavors — but fresh strawberries work beautifully too, especially when they’re in peak season. Just slice thinly and layer them raw for a brighter, juicier bite.

3. What’s the best way to make balsamic glaze at home?

Simmer ½ cup of balsamic vinegar in a small saucepan over low heat until reduced by half and syrupy (about 10–15 minutes). For a sweeter glaze, stir in 1–2 teaspoons of honey or brown sugar during the simmer.

4. How do I keep the crostini from getting soggy?

Make sure the bread is well toasted and fully cooled before assembling. Only add toppings right before serving to preserve that perfect crunch.

5. Can I serve this as a dessert?

Absolutely! Swap the herbs for a mint sprig, sweeten the ricotta with a bit more honey or maple syrup, and serve with a dusting of powdered sugar. It becomes a chic, effortless dessert in minutes.

More Delicious Whipped Ricotta Crostini Ideas

Looking to explore more creative takes on whipped ricotta crostini? These stunning variations will inspire you to mix, match, and elevate your appetizer game:

• Whipped Ricotta Crostini with Roasted Grapes & Thyme – From Scratch Fast
  A rustic and savory twist featuring sweet roasted grapes, fresh herbs, and creamy ricotta on crusty bread — simple, elegant, and bursting with flavor.
• Sweet & Savory Whipped Ricotta Crostini – Hello Frozen Bananas
  This version blends honey, flaky sea salt, and lemon zest for a craveable bite that works perfectly as an appetizer or light dessert.
• Whipped Ricotta Crostini with Charred Bread – Sunday Table
  Dive into a smoky, herbaceous rendition with charred bread, olive oil, and savory garnishes — ideal for wine night or cozy gatherings.

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