Honey Ricotta Peach Crostini with Crispy Pancetta Recipe

This Honey Ricotta Peach Crostini with Crispy Pancetta is the perfect blend of sweet, savory, and creamy flavors served on a crunchy baguette. Juicy, ripe peaches are layered over creamy ricotta cheese, drizzled with honey, and topped with crispy pancetta for a sophisticated appetizer or light summer snack. Perfect for brunches, garden parties, or any gathering, this easy-to-make recipe looks as good as it tastes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Sweet and savory combination – Juicy peaches, creamy ricotta, crispy pancetta, and sweet honey balance each bite.
• Perfect for entertaining – A beautiful and impressive appetizer for summer parties, brunches, or gatherings.
• Quick and easy – Ready in under 30 minutes with simple ingredients.
• Customizable – Add herbs, nuts, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra flair.
• Seasonal and fresh – The perfect way to use ripe, in-season peaches.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 baguette (sliced into ½-inch rounds)
• 1 cup ricotta cheese (whole milk for creaminess)
• 2–3 ripe peaches (thinly sliced)
• 4 oz pancetta (diced or thinly sliced)
• 2 tablespoons honey (plus extra for drizzling)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing the bread)
• Fresh thyme or basil (optional, for garnish)
• Salt and black pepper (to taste)
• Optional: balsamic glaze for drizzling

Directions

1. Prepare the crostini base:

• Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Place baguette slices on a baking sheet and brush both sides with olive oil.
• Bake for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy. Set aside to cool.

2. Cook the pancetta:

• In a skillet over medium heat, cook the diced pancetta until crispy, about 5–7 minutes.
• Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.

3. Mix the ricotta:

• In a small bowl, mix ricotta with honey, a pinch of salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.

4. Assemble the crostini:

• Spread a generous layer of the honey ricotta mixture on each toasted baguette slice.
• Top with peach slices and sprinkle crispy pancetta over the top.
• Drizzle with extra honey and garnish with fresh thyme or basil if desired.

5. Serve:

• Serve immediately as an appetizer, snack, or light brunch dish. Best enjoyed fresh!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12 crostini (depending on baguette size)
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Goat Cheese Substitute: Use creamy goat cheese instead of ricotta for a tangier flavor.
• Nutty Crunch: Add chopped pistachios, walnuts, or almonds for extra texture.
• Balsamic Glaze Drizzle: Drizzle with balsamic glaze for an added layer of flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Sprinkle with a dash of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat.
• Prosciutto Swap: Replace pancetta with crispy prosciutto for a different salty crunch.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the ricotta mixture, cooked pancetta, and toasted bread separately in airtight containers for up to 2 days. Assemble just before serving for the freshest taste.
• Reheating: Toast the baguette slices briefly in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 3–5 minutes if needed to refresh their crispiness.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as peaches and ricotta don’t freeze well.

FAQs

Can I use canned or frozen peaches?

Fresh peaches work best for texture and flavor, but canned or frozen (thawed) peaches can be used in a pinch—just pat them dry before assembling.

How do I keep the bread from getting soggy?

Toast the baguette slices until golden and let them cool completely before adding toppings to prevent sogginess.

Can I make this crostini ahead of time?

You can prepare all components ahead of time, but assemble the crostini just before serving for the best texture.

What herbs pair well with peaches?

Fresh thyme, basil, or mint all complement the sweetness of peaches beautifully.

Can I use another type of bread?

Yes, sourdough, ciabatta, or any rustic bread works well—just slice thinly and toast until crispy.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free bread to make the recipe gluten-free while keeping the flavors intact.

Can I swap pancetta for bacon?

Yes, crispy bacon is a great alternative and offers a similar salty crunch.

What type of honey works best?

Any high-quality honey works, but raw or floral honey adds a special touch to complement the peaches.

Can I grill the peaches instead?

Yes! Grilling peaches caramelizes their sugars and enhances the flavor—perfect for an elevated version.

How long will assembled crostini last?

They’re best enjoyed fresh but can be stored for up to 1 hour at room temperature before serving.

Conclusion

This Honey Ricotta Peach Crostini with Crispy Pancetta is a perfect combination of creamy, sweet, and savory flavors in one elegant bite. Whether served at a summer brunch, party, or as a simple snack, these crostini are sure to impress with their fresh ingredients, irresistible flavor, and beautiful presentation. A quick, easy, and sophisticated appetizer that’ll have everyone asking for the recipe!

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