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A slice of roasted strawberry whipped ricotta toast is my sunshine-on-a-plate breakfast when spring berries hit their peak. The creamy cheese gets an upgrade with a touch of honey and vanilla, then is piled high with tangy-sweet roasted berries on crispy toast. Whether for brunch or a treat-yourself snack, this recipe makes mornings absolutely special.
My first bite of this toast was a revelation. There is nothing quite like the aroma of balsamic-roasted strawberries mingling with warm bread. Ever since then, this has been my go-to way to elevate humble ricotta and day-old bread.
Ingredients
- Fresh strawberries: Choose ripe bright berries for best flavor
- Honey: Raw or local honey brings extra floral sweetness
- Balsamic vinegar: Try to use a syrupy aged vinegar for more depth and caramel notes
- Salt: A small pinch intensifies the berry flavor
- Ricotta cheese: Whole milk ricotta is key for a smooth rich texture
- Vanilla extract: Use pure extract for subtle warmth
- Crusty bread: Day-old sourdough or country bread gives the perfect crisp bite
- Fresh thyme or basil: For herbal freshness and fragrance
- Extra honey for drizzling: Adds gloss and a final pop of sweetness
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit or 190 degrees Celsius. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper so the berries will not stick.
- Prepare the Strawberries:
- Slice all the hulled strawberries evenly and toss them with honey balsamic vinegar and a pinch of salt. The honey caramelizes during roasting while balsamic adds an elegant tang.
- Roast the Strawberries:
- Arrange the coated strawberries in a single layer on your lined baking sheet. Roast for up to twenty five minutes until the berries look juicy and slightly caramelized at the edges. Allow them to cool to room temperature for easier handling.
- Whip the Ricotta:
- Combine ricotta cheese honey and vanilla extract in a bowl. Whip using a hand mixer or a whisk until smooth fluffy and fully creamy. Taste and adjust honey if you like it sweeter.
- Toast the Bread:
- While the strawberries cool toast the bread until golden and crisp outside. A sturdy country loaf works best to hold up the creamy topping.
- Assemble the Toast:
- Spread a thick layer of whipped ricotta over each slice of toast. Top with generous spoonfuls of roasted strawberries to cover the ricotta fully.
- Add Fresh Herbs and Drizzle:
- Finish with fresh thyme or basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor. Drizzle more honey over everything for a beautiful glossy look and extra sweetness.
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My daughter loves picking the herbs from our windowsill garden to sprinkle on top. Watching her assemble her own toast has become one of my favorite Saturday morning rituals.
Storage Tips
Store leftover roasted strawberries in a tightly sealed container for up to four days in the refrigerator. Whipped ricotta keeps well for two to three days if covered. Do not assemble toasts ahead of time since the bread will lose its crunch.
Ingredient Substitutions
Try mascarpone in place of ricotta for a richer flavor. Use maple syrup instead of honey if you want a slightly deeper sweetness. Sourdough or whole grain bread are delicious alternatives to classic white crusty loaf.
Serving Suggestions
This toast makes a beautiful centerpiece at brunch served alongside scrambled eggs and good coffee. For dessert you can serve smaller portions as canapés with a sprinkle of chopped nuts for crunch.
Cultural and Historical Context
Ricotta and honey are a classic pair in Italian cuisine often enjoyed with fruit or toast. Roasting strawberries is a trick chefs use to intensify and sweeten out of season berries so this toast is wonderful at any time of year.
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This toast is as beautiful as it is delicious—sure to add a touch of sunshine to your mornings!
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can roast frozen strawberries, but thaw and drain them first to reduce excess moisture.
- → What’s the best bread for this toast?
Crusty varieties like sourdough or rustic country bread hold up well and add great texture.
- → Can I make the whipped ricotta ahead?
Absolutely—store the whipped ricotta in the fridge for up to 2 days, and give it a quick stir before using.
- → Are there alternatives to honey for sweetening?
Maple syrup or agave can be substituted for honey without sacrificing flavor.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Keep all elements separate in airtight containers and assemble just before serving for optimal texture.