Description
This delightful recipe features flaky, day-old croissants filled with luxuriously whipped ricotta cheese sweetened with vanilla and lemon zest, then drizzled with rich, homemade burnt honey. The interplay of creamy, tangy ricotta and caramelized honey offers a unique and comforting breakfast or brunch treat that’s quick and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Scale
Croissants
- 4 large croissants (preferably day-old or slightly stale for the best texture)
Whipped Ricotta
- 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese (whole milk or part-skim)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp lemon zest (optional)
- Pinch of salt
Burnt Honey
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
Optional Garnish
- Fresh thyme or rosemary for garnish (for a savory twist)
Instructions
- Prepare the burnt honey: In a small saucepan over medium heat, gently warm the honey until it starts bubbling and foaming. Stir occasionally and watch carefully as it slowly turns a deep amber color, which should take about 5 minutes. Be vigilant to prevent it from burning.
- Incorporate the butter: Remove the saucepan from heat and immediately stir in the unsalted butter until fully melted and combined with the honey. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Make the whipped ricotta: In a food processor, combine the ricotta cheese, vanilla extract, optional lemon zest, and a pinch of salt. Pulse until the mixture becomes smooth, airy, and fluffy in texture.
- Assemble the croissants: Slice each croissant lengthwise in half. Generously spread or spoon the whipped ricotta onto the bottom half of each croissant.
- Add the burnt honey: Drizzle the cooled burnt honey evenly over the ricotta layer on each croissant.
- Close and serve: Place the top halves of the croissants back on and serve immediately. For an added crispy texture, you may lightly toast the assembled croissants before serving.
Notes
- Using day-old or slightly stale croissants ensures they hold up better and provide a more satisfying texture when filled.
- Be careful while heating honey to avoid burning, which can impart a bitter flavor.
- For a savory twist, garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary.
- Whipped ricotta can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; burnt honey can be prepared ahead and stored at room temperature.
- To toast the croissants, lightly heat them in a skillet or oven for about 2-3 minutes until crispy.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
