Print

Ricotta Pistachio Honey Bites Recipe

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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