There’s something magical about the scent that wafts through a warm Southern kitchen, one that carries memories of family gatherings in every hug from the oven. Ricotta crumb bars have a way of wrapping you in a cozy embrace, reminding you of simpler times when the world was a little slower, and everything was a tad sweeter.
Why make this recipe? Because building memories together over delightful treats is what life is all about. These ricotta crumb bars are like a warm hug—simple to prepare, yet they bring joy to any table. With their tender, creamy filling and buttery crumb topping, they create the perfect balance that makes you want to come back for another slice. So, gather your loved ones and let’s head to the kitchen to whip up a batch of nostalgia!
How to make Ricotta Crumb Bars
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup (12 Tablespoons) butter, plus 1 Tablespoon for greasing the baking dish (room temperature)
- 2 cups ricotta cheese (1 lb)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 4 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. As that warmth envelops your kitchen, go ahead and grease the bottom and sides of a 13 x 9 inch baking dish with that lovely, room-temperature butter—you want it nice and slick to help those bars come out perfectly.
Now, in a food processor, toss in your flour, baking soda, and salt. Give it a little pulse to mix well, creating a nice, comforting base. Next, drop in the butter, cut into 1 Tablespoon pieces, and pulse again until you’re left with a crumbly texture—this will give your bars that delightful, tender topping.
In a medium bowl, take your ricotta cheese and mix it with the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until they come together like old friends. This creamy mixture is where the magic happens, so make sure it’s well combined.
Take 2/3 of your flour mixture and press it firmly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish, creating a solid, crumbly crust that will hold all that luscious filling. Pour the ricotta mixture over the crust—oh, that creamy goodness! Now, sprinkle the remaining flour mixture over the top; this is where you’ll create that irresistible crunchy topping that contrasts so beautifully with the soft filling.
Pop your dish into the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. The rich aroma will have everyone gathering in the kitchen, eagerly waiting. After baking, let them cool for about 10 minutes before cutting. They’ll be delicate and tender, so handle the bars with the gentleness of a Southern breeze. Store these sweet treasures at room temperature, covered, ensuring they remain moist and divine.
How to serve Ricotta Crumb Bars
These crumbly delights can be served warm or at room temperature, but a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top adds an elegant touch that reminds you of a sun-kissed summer afternoon. Pair them with a steaming cup of coffee or a glass of sweet iced tea—perfect for afternoon delights with your loved ones.
How to store Ricotta Crumb Bars
To keep these bars lovely and tender, just cover them with a lid or some plastic wrap at room temperature. They usually last a few days, but trust me, they’ll disappear quicker than you can say, “Y’all come back now!”
Tips to make Ricotta Crumb Bars
- Use high-quality ricotta cheese for an even creamier filling—your taste buds will thank you!
- Give that dough a good press into the dish; you want a sturdy crust that holds together.
- If they’re too soft when you first take them out, let them cool a bit longer before attempting to cut.
Variations
Feeling adventurous? Try adding a hint of lemon zest to the ricotta mixture for a refreshing twist, or fold in some fresh berries for that seasonal touch that’ll bring sunshine to any gathering!
FAQs
Can I use low-fat ricotta cheese?
Yes, you can! However, the texture may be slightly different. Whole ricotta gives you that lovely creaminess that is truly comforting.
Can these bars be frozen?
Absolutely! Just make sure to wrap them tightly to avoid freezer burn. When you’re ready, thaw in the fridge overnight and enjoy!
How do I know when they’re done baking?
Look for a slight golden brown on top and a firm structure—though they will be tender, you want them to hold together when cut. A toothpick inserted should come out clean!
So next time you’re in the kitchen, remember that food is more than just ingredients; it’s the love, laughter, and stories shared that make every bite special. Gather your family, bake up a batch of these Ricotta Crumb Bars, and let the memories unfold around the table like a warm, inviting quilt on a chilly day!
Ricotta Crumb Bars
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Grease the bottom and sides of a 13 x 9 inch baking dish with 1 tablespoon of butter.
- In a food processor, mix the flour, baking soda, and salt by pulsing them together.
- Add the butter cut into 1 tablespoon pieces to the flour mixture and pulse until crumbly.
- In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until well mixed.
- Press 2/3 of the flour mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form a crust.
- Pour the ricotta mixture over the crust.
- Sprinkle the remaining flour mixture over the top as a crumbly topping.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes.
- Let the bars cool for about 10 minutes before cutting.