Name: Broiled Orange Whipped Ricotta Toasts Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 thick slices hearty artisan bread; 12 ounces ricotta cheese; 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste or pure vanilla extract; 2-3 tablespoons honey (divided); 2 Cara Cara oranges; 2 blood oranges; 1/4 cup raw almonds, roughly chopped; 4 sprigs fresh mint leaves; 1 tablespoon sea salt flakes

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If you’re craving a breakfast or snack that is bursting with flavor, texture, and a touch of elegance, you simply must try this Broiled Orange Whipped Ricotta Toasts Recipe. It’s an irresistible combination of smooth, airy ricotta whipped with just a hint of vanilla, perfectly toasted artisan bread, and vibrant broiled oranges caramelized to sweet, juicy perfection. The crunch from raw almonds and fresh mint leaves adds a refreshing finish, while sea salt flakes and honey bring that outstanding balance of sweet and savory. It’s a showstopper that feels fancy but is unbelievably easy to whip up.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows many layers of citrus slices arranged closely on a white marbled surface. There are two main types: one layer has bright orange slices with a smooth, shiny texture and thin yellow edges, while the other layer has deep red to dark purple slices with lighter pink borders, showing a detailed, almost watery texture. The slices are mostly round and are laid flat so their centers show a small white star shape made by the fruit's inner lines. The slices are mixed evenly, creating a colorful pattern of warm oranges and rich reds. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients come together simply yet are so essential for building layers of flavor and texture in this dish. Each one plays its part, whether it’s the creaminess, the sweetness, or the crunch, to make every bite memorable.

Thick slices hearty artisan bread: Choose a bread with a sturdy crumb that toasts beautifully without getting soggy under the ricotta.
Ricotta cheese: The star creamy base that whips up light and airy for that luscious mouthfeel.
Vanilla bean paste or pure vanilla extract: Just a whisper to add depth and warmth to the ricotta.
Cara Cara oranges: Sweet and slightly tangy, these add gorgeous color and juicy brightness.
Blood oranges: Their deep red hue and citrusy flavor make the toasts visually stunning and delicious.
Honey: Used both in the ricotta and brushed on the oranges, it caramelizes under the broiler for sticky-sweet magic.
Raw almonds (roughly chopped): A satisfying crunch that offsets the softness of the cheese and oranges.
Fresh mint leaves: To add a cooling, herbal freshness that enlivens every bite.
Sea salt flakes: The finishing touch that balances sweetness and brightens flavors.

How to Make Broiled Orange Whipped Ricotta Toasts Recipe

Step 1: Whip the Ricotta

Start by placing the ricotta cheese in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment. Add 1 tablespoon of honey and the vanilla bean paste or extract. Whip on medium-high speed for 2 to 3 minutes until the mixture becomes smooth, light, and airy. This step is key to transforming plain ricotta into a fluffy spread that will melt delightfully on your toasted bread. If you don’t have a mixer, vigorous hand whisking works in a pinch—just expect to spend a little more time.

Step 2: Toast the Bread

While the ricotta chills in the fridge to stay firm and fresh, grill or toast your thick artisan bread slices to your preferred level of toasty goodness. The goal is a golden, crisp exterior that supports the ricotta and juicy oranges without getting soggy too quickly. Set the toasted bread aside and prepare your oranges next.

Step 3: Slice and Honey-Glaze the Oranges

Carefully peel and trim the pith from your Cara Cara and blood oranges using a sharp knife or mandoline to get ¼-inch slices. The thin, clean slices ensure even broiling and a perfect balance of juicy fruit and caramelized surface. Lay them out on a foil-lined baking sheet, then gently brush each slice with the remaining honey. This glaze turns into a luscious, bubbly glaze as it broils.

Step 4: Broil the Orange Slices

Preheat your oven’s broiler. Place the baking sheet with your honey-glazed oranges under the broiler and watch closely for 3 to 5 minutes. You want the honey to bubble up and caramelize, and the orange edges to start blackening slightly, adding subtle smoky notes without burning. Once caramelized, remove from heat and let them cool slightly so they hold their shape without falling apart.

Step 5: Assemble the Toasts

Now for the fun and delicious part! Spread a generous layer of your whipped ricotta onto each toasted bread slice. Sprinkle with the chopped raw almonds for a satisfying nutty crunch. Top with the broiled orange slices, then tuck fresh mint leaves among the fruit for a pop of vibrant green and a refreshing herbal bite. Finish off with a scattering of sea salt flakes to brighten all the flavors and optionally drizzle more honey if you’re craving a little extra sweetness.

How to Serve Broiled Orange Whipped Ricotta Toasts Recipe

The image shows two slices of toasted bread on white plates with a white marbled background. Each slice has three layers: the bottom layer is the brown toasted bread with a slightly rough texture, the middle layer is creamy white spread evenly across the bread, and the top layer is made of bright red and orange citrus fruit slices placed side by side, garnished with fresh green mint leaves. Around the plates, small white and yellow daisy flowers are scattered. Nearby, there are two clear cups of tea with floating daisy flowers, and an orange peel rests on the side of one cup. There is also a small white bowl with coarse salt and a tiny spoon. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate these toasts even further, adding more fresh mint leaves or a few edible flower petals can create a stunning presentation perfect for brunch guests. A light sprinkle of finely grated orange zest right before serving also amplifies the citrus aroma and adds visual flair.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad tossed in a lemon vinaigrette or a simple bowl of mixed berries for extra freshness and color contrast. A glass of sparkling water with mint or a lightly brewed tea complements the toasts without overpowering their delicate flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Try cutting the toast into smaller bite-sized squares for cocktail parties or serving the assembled toasts atop a bed of arugula for a sweet and peppery salad toast combo. Alternatively, layer the whipped ricotta and broiled oranges in small jars for elegant individual servings during brunch gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the whipped ricotta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the toasted bread and broiled oranges separate and assemble just before serving to maintain texture and avoid sogginess.

Freezing

Because of the fresh fruit and delicate texture of whipped ricotta, freezing isn’t recommended for this dish. The oranges lose their juicy freshness and the ricotta can become grainy when thawed.

Reheating

To gently warm leftover toasted bread, pop it in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5 minutes. Reheat the broiled oranges briefly under the broiler for a minute or two, watching carefully, or serve them at room temperature. Always reassemble with fresh ricotta and garnishes.

FAQs

Can I use regular vanilla extract instead of vanilla bean paste?

Absolutely! Both work well, though vanilla bean paste offers those pretty specks and a more intense vanilla flavor. If you only have regular extract, simply use a bit less as it’s more concentrated.

What if I don’t have a broiler?

If your oven lacks a broiler, you can caramelize the oranges in a hot skillet over medium heat with honey until they brown and soften, though they won’t have quite the same smoky edge.

Can I substitute almonds with other nuts?

Definitely! Walnuts, pistachios, or pecans all bring interesting flavors and textures. Just toast them lightly beforehand for the best crunch.

Is this recipe suitable for vegan diets?

This recipe traditionally uses dairy ricotta and honey, which aren’t vegan. However, you can substitute with plant-based whipped ricotta and use maple syrup or agave nectar instead of honey to make it vegan-friendly.

What type of bread works best for this recipe?

A sturdy artisan bread like sourdough, country loaf, or pain de campagne is ideal since it crisps nicely and supports all the toppings without becoming soggy too quickly.

Final Thoughts

This Broiled Orange Whipped Ricotta Toasts Recipe is one of those delightful dishes that feels like a little celebration with every bite. The combination of creamy, sweet, tart, crunchy, and fresh flavors is truly unforgettable. I encourage you to give it a try soon and enjoy how effortlessly it transforms simple ingredients into something extraordinarily delicious and uplifting.