Maltese Ricotta Pastries: Irresistibly Creamy & Homemade Delights Recipe
Introduction
Maltese Ricotta Pastries are delightful homemade treats featuring a creamy, sweet filling wrapped in flaky puff pastry. These little half-moon pastries are perfect for sharing or enjoying as a comforting snack with tea or coffee.
Ingredients
- 500 grams ricotta cheese
- 200 grams powdered sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 250 grams puff pastry
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Pinch of cinnamon
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Step 2: In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, egg, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until smooth.
- Step 3: Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface and cut into circles.
- Step 4: Place a spoonful of the ricotta mixture in the center of each circle.
- Step 5: Fold the pastry over to create a half-moon shape and seal the edges.
- Step 6: Brush the tops with the beaten egg.
- Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Step 8: Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For a citrusy twist, add some lemon zest to the ricotta mixture for extra brightness.
- Make sure to seal the edges well to prevent the filling from leaking during baking.
- These pastries can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature for different textures.
Storage
Store any leftover pastries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in an oven or toaster oven to restore crispiness before serving.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of ricotta?
Ricotta has a unique creamy texture and mild flavor that works best, but you can try mascarpone or cream cheese for a richer taste, though the texture will differ slightly.
Can these pastries be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze the baked pastries in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven to enjoy them fresh.
PrintMaltese Ricotta Pastries: Irresistibly Creamy & Homemade Delights Recipe
These Maltese Ricotta Pastries are irresistibly creamy homemade delights featuring smooth ricotta filling encased in flaky puff pastry. Perfectly spiced with cinnamon and subtly sweetened, they make a delightful treat served warm or at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 pastries 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Maltese
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Filling
- 500 grams ricotta cheese
- 200 grams powdered sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- pinch of cinnamon
Pastry
- 250 grams puff pastry
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) to ensure it’s ready by the time the pastries are assembled.
- Make Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, egg, vanilla extract, and a pinch of cinnamon. Mix thoroughly until you achieve a smooth and creamy filling with no lumps.
- Prepare Pastry Circles: Lightly flour your work surface and roll out the puff pastry sheet. Using a round cutter or glass, cut the dough into even circles suitable for holding the filling.
- Fill and Fold: Place a spoonful of the ricotta mixture in the center of each pastry circle. Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape and press the edges firmly to seal, ensuring the filling won’t leak during baking.
- Apply Egg Wash: Beat the reserved egg and brush the tops of the sealed pastries. This step gives the pastries a beautiful golden brown and glossy finish.
- Bake: Arrange the pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes or until they turn golden brown and puffed.
- Cool and Serve: Remove pastries from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack before serving, allowing the filling to set slightly for the best texture.
Notes
- These pastries can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature for a delightful flavor experience.
- For added freshness and zest, mix some lemon zest into the ricotta filling before assembling.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 2-3 days for optimal taste.
Keywords: Maltese pastries, ricotta pastry, puff pastry dessert, creamy ricotta, homemade pastries, cinnamon ricotta treats
