Ricotta Pistachio Honey Bites Recipe

Introduction

These Ricotta Pistachio Honey Bites are a delightful blend of creamy, crunchy, and sweet flavors. Crispy on the outside and soft inside, they’re perfect as a snack or elegant appetizer. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a bite-sized treat that impresses every time.

Ingredients

• 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
• 1/3 cup crushed pistachios
• 3 tablespoons honey, plus more for drizzling
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs
• Neutral oil for frying

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a bowl, combine ricotta, crushed pistachios, 3 tablespoons honey, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix until evenly blended.
2. Step 2: Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for 15 to 20 minutes until it firms up and is easier to handle.
3. Step 3: Scoop the chilled mixture and roll it into 14 small, even-sized balls.
4. Step 4: Coat each ball first in flour, then dip into the beaten egg, and finally roll in Panko breadcrumbs to cover completely.
5. Step 5: Heat neutral oil in a pan to 350°F (175°C).
6. Step 6: Fry the balls in batches for 2 to 3 minutes, turning occasionally, until they become golden brown and crispy.
7. Step 7: Drain the fried bites on paper towels to remove excess oil.
8. Step 8: Drizzle with additional honey before serving for a touch of extra sweetness.

Tips & Variations

• For a nut-free version, substitute crushed pistachios with toasted sesame seeds or omit them altogether.
• Try adding finely grated lemon zest to the ricotta mixture for a fresh citrus twist.
• Serve with a side of Greek yogurt mixed with a little honey and cinnamon for dipping.
• Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs if you need a gluten-free option.

Storage

Store leftover bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a low oven or air fryer to restore crispness. These bites are best enjoyed fresh for maximum crunch.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I bake these instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake them at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes, turning halfway through, but the texture will be less crispy compared to frying.

What type of oil is best for frying?

Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point like vegetable, canola, or sunflower oil to ensure even frying without overpowering the flavor.

Ricotta Pistachio Honey Bites Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 144 reviews

These Ricotta Pistachio Honey Bites are a delightful sweet snack or dessert featuring creamy ricotta cheese mixed with crunchy pistachios, lightly sweetened with honey and vanilla, then coated and fried to golden perfection. Finished with a drizzle of honey, they offer a wonderful balance of creamy, crunchy, and sweet flavors in each bite.

• Author: Grace
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 14 bites 1x
• Category: Snack
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

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Main Ingredients

• 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
• 1/3 cup crushed pistachios
• 3 tablespoons honey, plus more for drizzling
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Coating Ingredients

• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs

For Frying

• Neutral oil for frying (such as vegetable or canola oil)

Instructions

1. Mix the ricotta filling: In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese, 1/3 cup crushed pistachios, 3 tablespoons honey, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir until well incorporated.
2. Chill the mixture: Place the ricotta mixture in the refrigerator and chill for 15–20 minutes. This will help the mixture firm up so it’s easier to shape into balls.
3. Form the balls: Using a spoon or your hands, scoop and roll the chilled mixture into approximately 14 small, evenly sized balls.
4. Prepare for coating: Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes: one with 1/3 cup all-purpose flour, the second with the beaten egg, and the third with 1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs.
5. Coat the balls: Take each ricotta ball and gently roll it first in the flour to coat lightly, then dip into the beaten egg, and finally roll it in the Panko breadcrumbs, ensuring an even crust all around.
6. Heat the oil: In a deep skillet or frying pan, heat neutral oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to ensure accurate temperature for proper frying.
7. Fry the bites: Carefully place the coated ricotta balls into the hot oil in batches, avoiding overcrowding. Fry each batch for 2–3 minutes or until the balls turn golden brown and crispy on the outside.
8. Drain excess oil: Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried bites and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil.
9. Serve: Arrange the Ricotta Pistachio Honey Bites on a serving plate and drizzle additional honey over them just before serving for added sweetness and shine.

Notes

• Ensure the oil is at the correct temperature before frying to achieve a crispy exterior without absorbing excess oil.
• Chilling the ricotta mixture is essential; if too soft, the balls may fall apart during frying.
• Panko breadcrumbs create a lighter and crunchier coating compared to regular breadcrumbs.
• You can substitute pistachios with other nuts like almonds or walnuts if preferred.
• Serve immediately for the best texture as the bites are crispiest fresh from frying.

Keywords: Ricotta bites, pistachio snacks, fried ricotta balls, sweet ricotta bites, honey drizzled snacks