Fig, Brie, and Ricotta Tart

This fig, brie, and ricotta tart is the kind of recipe you make when you want something that feels special without being complicated. The first time I made it was on a quiet afternoon when I wanted comfort but also a little elegance, and it delivered exactly that. It bakes into a golden, creamy tart with jammy figs and soft cheese that feels impressive yet completely doable, giving you a beautiful centerpiece that’s worth every minute.

Why This Recipe Will Be Your New Favorite

There’s something deeply satisfying about a tart that looks bakery worthy but comes together with simple steps. The creamy ricotta, melty brie, and sweet figs create a balance that feels cozy and refined at the same time. Trust me, you’re going to love this, because it’s easy enough for a weeknight treat but elegant enough for guests. This one’s a total game-changer when you want effortless sophistication.

Behind the Recipe

This recipe was inspired by those moments when you open the fridge and spot good cheese waiting to be used. I wanted a tart that felt rustic and welcoming, something you could slice and share without fuss. The combination came together naturally, a little sweet, a little savory, and completely comforting, just like a relaxed afternoon spent cooking for yourself or people you love.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients work together to create layers of creaminess, sweetness, and flaky texture, with each one playing an important role.

1. Fresh figs: 6 medium figs, halved, they soften and turn jammy in the oven, adding natural sweetness and color.
2. Brie cheese: 120 grams, sliced, it melts gently and adds rich, buttery creaminess.
3. Ricotta cheese: 200 grams, full fat, it forms the creamy base and keeps the tart light and fluffy.
4. All purpose flour: 180 grams, it creates a tender, flaky tart crust.
5. Unsalted butter: 120 grams, cold and cubed, it gives the crust its crisp, buttery texture.
6. Eggs: 2 large eggs, they bind the filling and give it structure.
7. Honey: 2 tablespoons, for a subtle floral sweetness that complements the figs.
8. Fresh thyme leaves: 1 teaspoon, optional, they add a gentle herbal note that balances the richness.
9. Salt: 0.5 teaspoon, it enhances all the flavors without overpowering them.

Time Needed to Make This Recipe

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 60 minutes

Special Equipment You’ll Need

This recipe doesn’t require anything fancy, just a few basics to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Tart pan: Holds the crust and filling, giving the tart its classic shape.
Mixing bowl: Used to combine the ricotta filling until smooth and creamy.
Rolling pin: Helps roll out the dough evenly for a consistent crust.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Take a deep breath and enjoy the process, this tart is all about layering flavors with confidence and ease.

1. Prepare the crust: Combine the flour and salt in a bowl, add the cold butter, and rub it in until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add a few tablespoons of cold water until the dough comes together, then chill for 15 minutes.
2. Roll the dough: Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface and gently press it into the tart pan, trimming any excess.
3. Prebake the crust: Bake the crust at 180°C for 10 minutes, just until lightly set, so it stays crisp under the filling.
4. Mix the filling: In a bowl, whisk the ricotta, eggs, honey, and salt until smooth and creamy.
5. Assemble the tart: Spread the ricotta mixture evenly into the crust, then layer the brie slices and fig halves on top.
6. Bake the tart: Return to the oven and bake for 30 minutes, until the filling is set and the top is lightly golden.
7. Finish and rest: Let the tart cool slightly before slicing, allowing the flavors to settle and the texture to firm up.

Serving Suggestions & Presentation Tips

Serve this tart slightly warm or at room temperature so the cheeses are perfectly creamy. Arrange slices on a simple plate and let the deep purple figs shine against the pale filling. A drizzle of honey on top adds gloss and sweetness, and a sprinkle of fresh thyme gives a pop of green that makes it look effortlessly elegant.

Extra Tips for Best Results

A few small details make all the difference when it comes to texture and flavor.

• Use cold butter for the crust to ensure maximum flakiness.
• Let the tart cool slightly before slicing so the filling holds its shape.
• Choose ripe but firm figs for the best balance of sweetness and structure.

Variations You Can Try

For a nuttier flavor, sprinkle 30 grams of chopped walnuts over the tart before baking, they add crunch and depth.
For a citrus note, add 1 teaspoon of lemon zest to the ricotta mixture, it brightens the richness beautifully.
For extra herbs, swap thyme for fresh rosemary, finely chopped, for a more savory profile.
For a lighter version, replace half the ricotta with low fat ricotta, keeping the texture creamy but slightly lighter.

Make Ahead and Storage

This tart can be prepared a few hours ahead and kept at room temperature until serving, which makes entertaining easier. Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, tightly covered. To reheat, warm slices gently in the oven so the crust stays crisp and the filling remains creamy.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

A few insider touches can elevate this tart from good to unforgettable.
Blind baking the crust slightly helps prevent sogginess.
Let the cheeses come to room temperature before assembling for even melting.
Slice the figs evenly so they cook at the same rate and look beautiful on top.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 320
Note: These are approximate values.

FAQ’s

1. Can I use dried figs instead of fresh?

Yes, but rehydrate them in warm water for 10 minutes first so they soften and blend better with the creamy filling.

2. What type of ricotta works best?

Full fat ricotta gives the creamiest texture and richest flavor, making the tart feel indulgent and smooth.

3. Can I make this tart gluten free?

You can use a gluten free flour blend for the crust, just ensure it’s suitable for pastry dough.

4. Is this tart more sweet or savory?

It sits perfectly in between, with gentle sweetness from the figs and honey balanced by creamy cheese.

5. Can I serve this as a main dish?

Yes, paired with a fresh salad, it makes a lovely light meal.

6. How do I know when the tart is done?

The center should be just set and no longer wobbly, with lightly golden edges.

7. Can I freeze this tart?

Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the cheeses can change once thawed.

8. What can I substitute for brie?

A mild soft cheese works well, as long as it melts smoothly and complements the figs.

9. Should I peel the figs?

No, the skins soften during baking and add color and texture.

10. Can I serve it cold?

Yes, it’s delicious chilled, though the flavors shine best at room temperature.

Conclusion

This fig, brie, and ricotta tart is comforting, elegant, and surprisingly simple, the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again. Let me tell you, it’s worth every bite, and I hope it becomes one of those dishes you’re proud to share and excited to make.

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