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Ricotta Lime Tart Recipe

4.7 from 134 reviews

This refreshing Ricotta Lime Tart features a crisp buttery crust filled with a creamy, zesty ricotta lime filling enhanced by ground almonds for a delightful texture. Perfect for spring or summer gatherings, it combines the bright flavor of lime with the richness of ricotta cheese to create a light yet indulgent dessert.

Ingredients

Scale

Tart Crust

  • 2 cups (240 grams) all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup (50 grams) sugar
  • 1/2 cup (113 grams) cold diced butter
  • 2 egg yolks
  • Grated zest from 1 lime
  • ~5 tbsp iced water

Ricotta Lime Filling

  • 15 oz (425 grams) whole milk ricotta cheese (Sargento recommended)
  • 1/2 cup (100 grams) sugar
  • 3 whole eggs
  • 2 egg whites
  • 3/4 cup (90 grams) ground almonds
  • Grated zest from 2-3 limes

Optional

  • Sliced almonds for garnish
  • Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

  1. Prepare Tart Crust: In a food processor, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, cold diced butter, egg yolks, and the grated zest from one lime. Pulse gently several times until the mixture resembles fine crumbs.
  2. Form Dough: Gradually add iced water (about 5 tablespoons), alternating with pulses, until the mixture comes together into a smooth dough.
  3. Press into Tart Pan: Using your fingers, evenly press the dough onto the bottom and up the sides of an 11-inch tart pan to form the crust.
  4. Chill Crust: Cover the tart pan tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 to 40 minutes to firm up the dough.
  5. Preheat Oven: While the crust chills, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  6. Prepare Ricotta Lime Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat the ricotta cheese and sugar together until just combined and smooth.
  7. Add Eggs: Add the whole eggs and egg whites one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure even incorporation.
  8. Mix in Ground Almonds and Lime Zest: Stir in the ground almonds and grated zest from 2-3 limes until fully combined.
  9. Fill the Tart Crust: Pour the ricotta lime mixture into the chilled tart crust, spreading evenly.
  10. Bake: Place the tart in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 55 minutes, or until the filling is set and the tart is slightly golden on top.
  11. Cool and Garnish: Allow the tart to cool at room temperature. Just before serving, sprinkle with sliced almonds or dust lightly with powdered sugar for an elegant finish.

Notes

  • Ensure the butter for the crust is cold to achieve a flaky texture.
  • Do not overbeat the ricotta filling; mix just until combined to maintain a smooth texture.
  • Ground almonds add moisture and flavor but can be substituted with finely ground almond flour if preferred.
  • If lime zest is unavailable, lemon zest can make a good alternative but will change the flavor profile slightly.
  • Use a tart pan with a removable bottom for easier serving.
  • Tart can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Keywords: ricotta lime tart, lime dessert, ricotta cheese tart, baking recipe, Italian dessert, almond tart crust, citrus tart