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Pistachio Honey Bites Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 64 reviews

Delightful Pistachio Honey Bites combining smooth ricotta cheese with a delicate honey drizzle and a crunchy pistachio coating. These small, baked treats are perfect for an elegant snack or a charming dessert, bursting with nutty flavors and creamy textures.

Ingredients

Scale

Ricotta Mixture

  • 15 ounces (about 425g) whole milk ricotta cheese, drained well
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
  • Pinch of salt

Pistachio Coating

  • 1 cup shelled pistachios, finely chopped (unsalted or lightly salted)
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar

Honey Drizzle

  • 1/4 cup honey (good quality)
  • 1 tablespoon water

Garnish

  • Extra chopped pistachios
  • Edible flowers
  • A sprinkle of sea salt

Instructions

  1. Drain the Ricotta: Place ricotta in a fine-mesh sieve lined with cheesecloth or paper towel. Drain in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes up to 1 hour, gently pressing to remove excess moisture for a creamy yet firm texture.
  2. Combine Ricotta Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the drained ricotta, egg, sugar, vanilla extract, almond extract (if using), and salt until smooth. Avoid overmixing to maintain a light texture.
  3. Chill the Mixture: Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight to firm up, aiding in easier shaping of the bites.
  4. Chop Pistachios: Finely chop the pistachios for the coating, ensuring an even, crunchy outer layer.
  5. Combine Coating Ingredients: Mix the chopped pistachios with the flour and sugar in a shallow dish to create a flavorful and textured coating.
  6. Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
  7. Scoop the Ricotta: Remove the chilled ricotta mixture and use a small scoop or spoon to portion out approximately 1-inch balls.
  8. Shape the Bites (Optional): Gently roll each scoop between your palms to form smooth, uniform balls, dampening your hands if necessary to prevent sticking.
  9. Coat the Bites: Roll each ricotta ball in the pistachio coating, pressing slightly to ensure the coating adheres well and fully surrounds each bite.
  10. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the coated bites spaced evenly on the prepared baking sheet to allow even baking.
  11. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and allow it to fully preheat for optimal baking results.
  12. Bake the Bites: Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until the bites are lightly golden and the pistachios are toasted, watching carefully to avoid burning.
  13. Cool the Bites: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the bites cool for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely for optimal texture.
  14. Combine Honey and Water: In a small saucepan over low heat, mix the honey and water together, stirring constantly until thinned and well combined, about 1 to 2 minutes. Avoid boiling.
  15. Cool Slightly: Remove the honey mixture from heat and allow it to cool slightly before use.
  16. Drizzle with Honey: Once the ricotta bites have cooled, generously drizzle the honey mixture over them to add a sweet, glossy finish.
  17. Garnish (Optional): Decorate each bite with extra chopped pistachios, edible flowers, or a light sprinkle of sea salt to enhance both flavor and presentation.
  18. Serve: Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best taste, enjoy at room temperature or slightly chilled.

Notes

  • Draining the ricotta is essential to avoid overly wet bites and ensure they hold their shape during baking.
  • Almond extract is optional but adds a lovely depth of flavor complementing the pistachios.
  • Be careful not to overbake; the bites should be lightly golden but still soft and creamy inside.
  • Using good quality honey makes a significant difference in the final flavor.
  • These bites can be stored refrigerated but are best eaten fresh within 3 days.

Keywords: ricotta, pistachio, honey, bite-sized dessert, baked dessert, nutty sweets, Italian snacks

Find it online: https://deliciousdishspot.com/pistachio-honey-bites-recipe/