(This recipe for Honey Almond Ricotta Spread is sponsored by Fisher Nuts.)
A few years ago I was in New York with my husband for his company holiday party. It was a wonderful trip filled with memorable meals. One restaurant in particular left a lasting impression because of its simple, elegant ricotta plate. That dish inspired this Honey Almond Ricotta Spread, which captures the creamy texture, mild sweetness and crunchy almond contrast I remember so fondly. I did not make the ricotta from scratch for this version — instead I focus on an easy, delicious assembly that you can pull together in minutes.
Ricotta has long been one of my favorite snacks. As a child my grandmother would serve it in a bowl with a sprinkle of sugar; this is essentially a grown-up version of that childhood treat. A little honey, almond extract and a generous handful of sliced almonds transforms ricotta into a versatile spread that works beautifully for breakfast, brunch, or a light dessert. It’s especially delightful spooned over hearty whole-grain toast, English muffins, or bagels and topped with fresh fruit like sliced peaches.
I use whole milk ricotta for its rich, creamy mouthfeel, but part-skim ricotta will work if you prefer a lighter option. Fisher Sliced Almonds add the perfect crunch and nutty flavor; toast them briefly if you like extra depth. A touch of almond extract and a drizzle of honey round out the flavors. For a bright aromatic note, a little orange zest is a lovely optional addition.
Print Recipe
Honey Almond Ricotta Spread with Fruit
Yield: serves 4-6
Total Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients:
For the ricotta spread:
- 1 cup whole milk ricotta
- 1/2 cup Fisher Sliced Almonds
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
- 1 teaspoon honey
- zest from an orange, optional
For serving:
- hearty whole grain toast, English muffin or bagel
- sliced peaches or other fresh fruit
- extra Fisher sliced almonds
- extra honey for drizzling
Directions:
- Combine the ricotta, sliced almonds, and almond extract in a medium bowl. Gently stir until evenly combined. If using orange zest, fold it in now.
- Transfer the spread to a serving bowl and sprinkle with a few additional sliced almonds. Drizzle a teaspoon of honey over the top for presentation.
- Toast your bread or warm your muffins. Spread about 1 tablespoon of the ricotta mixture on each piece of toast or muffin half.
- Top with sliced peaches (or berries, figs, or other seasonal fruit), a few more sliced almonds, and an extra drizzle of honey to taste. Serve immediately.
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This ricotta spread is flexible and forgiving. Here are a few simple tips and serving ideas to get the most from it:
- Storage: Store any leftover ricotta spread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Give it a gentle stir before serving.
- Toasting almonds: For extra flavor, toast the sliced almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–4 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant and lightly golden. Let cool before folding into the ricotta.
- Flavor variations: Swap almond extract for a splash of vanilla, or add a pinch of cinnamon for a warm twist. Use honey alternatives like maple syrup if preferred.
- Serving ideas: Try the spread on crostini with a summer fruit compote for an easy appetizer, or use it as a creamy topping for pancakes or waffles instead of syrup.
- Fruit pairings: While peaches are pictured and wonderful in season, berries, figs, pears, or sliced apples all pair beautifully with the creamy ricotta and crunchy almonds.
If you’re making this for a special occasion like Mother’s Day, pair the spread with freshly brewed coffee, scrambled eggs with smoked salmon, or a light fruit salad for a simple and elegant breakfast or brunch. This recipe highlights how a few quality ingredients and a quick assembly can make an ordinary morning feel a bit more indulgent.
This post is in partnership with Fisher Nuts; all opinions are my own. #ThinkFisher