Caramelized Apple Ricotta Crostini (Ready-to-Print Version)

Creamy ricotta spread topped with warm caramelized apples and maple drizzle on toasted baguette slices.

# What You’ll Need:

→ Crostini

01 - 1 French baguette, sliced into ½-inch thick pieces
02 - 2 tablespoons olive oil

→ Ricotta Spread

03 - 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
04 - 1 teaspoon lemon zest
05 - 1 teaspoon honey
06 - Pinch of salt

→ Caramelized Apples

07 - 2 medium Gala apples, thinly sliced
08 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
09 - 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
10 - ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
11 - ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
12 - Pinch of freshly ground black pepper
13 - Splash of pure vanilla extract

→ Finishing Touch

14 - Drizzle of pure maple syrup

# Step-by-Step Guide:

01 - Preheat the oven to 400°F. Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet, brush both sides lightly with olive oil, and bake for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping once, until golden and crisp.
02 - Combine ricotta, lemon zest, honey, and salt in a bowl. Whip with a fork until well incorporated and creamy. Chill until ready to use for optimal spreadability.
03 - In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add apple slices and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until they soften. Stir in maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, black pepper, and vanilla. Continue cooking, stirring frequently, for 6 to 8 minutes until apples are golden and caramelized. Remove from heat to cool slightly.
04 - Spread a generous layer of the ricotta mixture over each toasted baguette slice. Top with caramelized apple slices and finish with a light drizzle of maple syrup just before serving.

# Handy Tips:

01 - Use day-old baguette for optimal crunch. Whip ricotta with a hand mixer for extra smoothness. Assemble just before serving to prevent sogginess.