Description
These Irresistibly Creamy Ricotta Pistachio Honey Bites are delightful bite-sized treats combining the creamy richness of ricotta cheese with the crunchy texture of pistachios, all sweetened with a touch of honey and a hint of vanilla. Perfectly fried to a golden crisp, they offer a harmonious blend of sweet and nutty flavors that make for a delicious snack or dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup Ricotta cheese (whole milk) (Substitute with cottage cheese if needed)
- 1/2 cup Crushed pistachios (Any nut can work)
- 3 tablespoons Honey (Maple syrup works for a vegan alternative)
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract (Choose pure vanilla for the best taste)
- 1 cup All-purpose flour (Gluten-free flour is an alternative)
- 1 large Egg (beaten) (For vegan, replace with flax egg)
- 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs (Regular breadcrumbs can be used)
- 1 pinch Salt (Balances out the flavors beautifully)
For Frying
- 2 cups Neutral oil (canola or vegetable oil recommended)
Instructions
- Prepare the Ricotta Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, crushed pistachios, honey, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir gently until all ingredients are well incorporated to form a creamy and slightly sticky mixture.
- Form the Bites: In separate dishes, place the flour, beaten egg, and panko breadcrumbs. Using your hands or a spoon, shape the ricotta mixture into small bite-sized balls. Roll each ball first in the flour to coat lightly, then dip it into the beaten egg, and finally roll it in the panko breadcrumbs to cover completely.
- Heat the Oil: Pour the neutral oil into a heavy-bottomed skillet or frying pan and heat over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C) or is hot enough to sizzle when a breadcrumb is added.
- Fry the Bites: Carefully add the coated ricotta bites into the hot oil without overcrowding the pan. Fry them for about 3-5 minutes, turning gently to ensure all sides become golden brown and crisp.
- Drain and Serve: Using a slotted spoon, remove the fried bites from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve warm drizzled with extra honey if desired.
Notes
- For a vegan version, replace ricotta with a vegan cheese alternative or firm tofu blended smoothly.
- Maple syrup can be used instead of honey for a vegan-friendly sweetener.
- Flax egg can replace the beaten egg by mixing 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons water and letting it sit for 5 minutes.
- Maintain oil temperature between 350°F to 375°F to achieve crispiness without absorbing too much oil.
- Serve these bites immediately for the best texture and flavor.
