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Perfect Fresh Fig and Honey Crostata Recipe with Ricotta and Thyme

fresh fig and honey crostata - featured image

A rustic tart featuring a flaky crust, creamy ricotta and thyme filling, topped with fresh figs and drizzled with honey. This easy homemade dessert is perfect for late summer and early fall occasions.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/4 cups (160g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
  • 1 large egg yolk, room temperature
  • 23 tablespoons ice water
  • 1 cup (250g) whole milk ricotta
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves, finely chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 56 fresh figs, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons honey, for drizzling
  • Fresh thyme sprigs, for garnish

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt. Add cold, cubed butter and cut into the flour using a pastry cutter or fingers until mixture resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized bits (3-5 minutes).
  2. Stir in egg yolk. Add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing gently until dough just comes together. Wrap dough in plastic and chill at least 30 minutes.
  3. While dough chills, whisk ricotta with honey, chopped thyme, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
  4. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  5. Roll dough on a lightly floured surface into a rough 12-inch circle about 1/8-inch thick. Transfer to a parchment-lined rimmed baking sheet.
  6. Spread ricotta filling evenly over dough, leaving a 2-inch border around edges. Arrange sliced figs on top in a single layer, slightly overlapping.
  7. Fold dough edges over filling, pleating to form a rustic border. Brush edges lightly with water or beaten egg for a golden finish.
  8. Bake for 35-40 minutes until crust is golden and figs are soft and slightly caramelized. Check after 30 minutes to prevent burning.
  9. Remove from oven and immediately drizzle 2 tablespoons honey over the warm crostata. Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs. Let cool slightly before slicing.

Notes

Keep butter cold to ensure a flaky crust. Do not overwork the dough to avoid toughness. Whip ricotta smooth for best texture. Watch oven after 30 minutes to prevent over-browning. Dough can be made ahead and refrigerated or frozen. Substitute fruits or use gluten-free/dairy-free alternatives as needed.

Nutrition

Keywords: fig crostata, honey crostata, ricotta tart, fresh fig dessert, thyme dessert, easy crostata recipe, homemade dessert, seasonal fruit tart