Fig and Ricotta Toast

This fig and ricotta toast celebrates summer's bounty in a delicious, easy-to-prepare breakfast or appetizer. The combination of creamy ricotta, sweet figs, and crunchy sourdough creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures that never fails to impress guests or brighten a weekend morning.

I first made this toast when I discovered perfectly ripe figs at my local farmers market last summer. The simplicity surprised me, but the complex flavors had my family requesting it every weekend throughout fig season.

Ingredients

• Fresh figs select plump fruits with slight give when pressed and no bruising
• Ricotta cheese whole milk variety offers the creamiest texture and richest flavor
• Sourdough bread provides the perfect sturdy base with tangy flavor contrast
• Honey local wildflower honey adds complex sweetness
• Fresh mint brightens the dish with aromatic freshness

Step-by-Step Instructions

Toast the Bread

Place sourdough slices on a baking sheet and toast in a preheated 375°F oven for 10-12 minutes until golden brown and crisp on the outside while maintaining slight chewiness inside. Watch carefully in the final minutes to prevent burning.

Prepare the Ricotta

Mix ricotta cheese with a small pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper in a bowl. Whip with a fork until light and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Slice the Figs

Using a sharp paring knife, remove the stem and slice figs into thin rounds or quarters. The vibrant interior color will make a beautiful presentation.

Assemble the Toast

Spread a generous layer of seasoned ricotta on each toast slice, creating an even base about 1/4 inch thick. Arrange the fig slices in an overlapping pattern.

Finish and Garnish

Drizzle honey in a zigzag pattern over the assembled toasts. Tear fresh mint leaves and scatter them across the top just before serving.

Bookmark

The first time I served this at a brunch gathering, my friend who claimed to dislike figs couldn't stop raving about it. The combination of warm toast, cool ricotta, and honey-drizzled figs creates a magical experience that converts even the skeptics.

Make Ahead Options

For entertaining, toast the bread and prepare the ricotta mixture up to 4 hours ahead. Store the ricotta covered in the refrigerator and the toast at room temperature. Only slice the figs and assemble just before serving to prevent sogginess and maintain the fresh appearance.

Seasonal Variations

While fresh figs are the star when in season, this versatile recipe works beautifully year-round. Try thinly sliced pears with a sprinkle of cinnamon in fall, blood oranges in winter, or berries in spring. Each variation brings its own character while maintaining the delightful contrast between creamy cheese and fruit.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete brunch, serve alongside a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon and olive oil. The peppery greens complement the sweetness of the toast perfectly. For an elegant appetizer presentation, cut each assembled toast into smaller pieces and arrange on a wooden board with additional fresh figs and honey on the side.

Recipe FAQs

→ What can I substitute for fresh figs if they're not in season?

If fresh figs aren't available, you can substitute with dried figs soaked in warm water for 15-20 minutes until softened. Alternatively, try other seasonal fruits like thinly sliced pears, peaches, or berries. Fig jam also works well as a spread under or over the ricotta.

→ Can I prepare this fig and ricotta toast in advance?

For best results, toast the bread and prepare the ricotta mixture up to a day ahead, but assemble just before serving. Pre-assembled toasts will become soggy if left too long. If needed, you can partially prepare by toasting bread and storing in an airtight container, and slicing figs and storing in the refrigerator.

→ What type of ricotta works best for this toast?

Whole milk ricotta creates the creamiest result, but part-skim works well too. For extra richness, choose a high-quality fresh ricotta from a specialty store rather than mass-produced versions. You can also strain regular ricotta through cheesecloth for a few hours to achieve a thicker, more spreadable consistency.

→ What can I serve with fig and ricotta toast?

These toasts pair beautifully with a simple green salad for lunch, or alongside a cheese and charcuterie board for entertaining. For breakfast, serve with fresh fruit and yogurt. For drinks, consider pairing with prosecco, champagne, or a light white wine like Pinot Grigio for a sophisticated brunch option.

→ How can I make this fig toast dairy-free or vegan?

Replace the ricotta with dairy-free alternatives like almond ricotta or cashew cream cheese. Many grocery stores now carry plant-based ricotta alternatives. You can also make your own by blending soaked cashews with a bit of lemon juice, nutritional yeast, and salt. Replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a fully vegan version.

→ Can I add other flavors to the ricotta spread?

Absolutely! The ricotta can be enhanced with lemon zest, orange zest, vanilla extract, or a dash of cinnamon. For a savory twist, try adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary, or even a small amount of minced garlic. A drizzle of good quality olive oil can also add depth to the spread.