Description

This Peach Bruschetta Ricotta recipe is a delightful summer appetizer that combines fresh, juicy peaches with creamy ricotta, fragrant basil, and a hint of cinnamon. Toasted baguette slices provide the perfect crunchy base, while a drizzle of honey and a splash of balsamic vinegar bring balanced sweetness and acidity. Easy to assemble and perfect for warm weather entertaining.

Ingredients

Scale

Peach Topping

1 pound ripe peaches, peeled and diced (about 4 medium)
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Ricotta Mixture

1 (15-ounce) container whole milk ricotta cheese
2 tablespoons honey
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Bread and Garnish

1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
2 tablespoons butter, melted
Optional: Toasted slivered almonds for garnish

Instructions

Prepare Peaches: Wash, peel, and dice the peaches into 1/2-inch pieces to ensure bite-sized and uniform pieces for the topping.
Mix Peach Topping: In a medium bowl, combine the diced peaches, chopped basil, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Toss gently to coat all pieces evenly with the dressing.
Marinate: Let the peach mixture sit at room temperature for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the peaches to release some juice.
Make Ricotta Spread: In a separate bowl, whisk together the whole milk ricotta cheese, honey, lemon zest, and ground cinnamon until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the sweetness or lemon zest as desired.
Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for toasting the baguette slices.
Prepare Baguette: Arrange the sliced baguette rounds on a baking sheet and brush both sides with melted butter to ensure crispiness and golden color when baked.
Bake Bread: Bake the buttered baguette slices in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or until they become golden brown and crispy. Allow them to cool slightly after baking.
Assemble Bruschetta: Spread an even layer of the ricotta mixture onto each toasted baguette slice.
Top with Peaches: Spoon the marinated peach topping on top of the ricotta-covered baguette slices.
Garnish and Serve: Optionally, sprinkle toasted slivered almonds on top for added texture and flavor. Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh and creamy combinations.

Notes

Peeling the peaches is recommended for a smoother texture, but if preferred, you can leave the skins on for extra fiber.
Letting the peach mixture sit allows the flavors to fully develop and juices to blend.
You can substitute the baguette with ciabatta or sourdough bread for different flavor profiles.
If you prefer a less sweet ricotta spread, reduce the honey or omit the cinnamon.
To make it vegan, use a plant-based ricotta alternative and substitute butter with olive oil.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian

Keywords: Peach bruschetta, ricotta appetizer, summer recipe, easy bruschetta, basil peach topping, honey ricotta spread