Summer appetizers should be light, fresh, and easy to make—and this Peach Bruschetta with Whipped Ricotta checks all the boxes. It’s a sweet-and-savory twist on the classic tomato bruschetta that highlights ripe, juicy peaches layered over creamy whipped ricotta and crunchy toasted bread. Perfect for warm-weather entertaining, this appetizer looks impressive but comes together in just 30 minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Peach Bruschetta
- Perfect summer bite – Juicy peaches pair beautifully with creamy ricotta, fresh basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
- Quick & simple – Ready in about half an hour with minimal prep.
- Customizable – Swap peaches for nectarines, figs, or even pears depending on the season.
- Make-ahead friendly – Prep the toppings and whipped ricotta in advance, then assemble just before serving.
Choosing the Best Peaches
For bruschetta, look for ripe but firm peaches that hold their shape when diced. Yellow peaches are ideal for their balance of sweetness and tang, while white peaches are sweeter and more delicate. Avoid overly soft peaches, which can make the topping watery. A peach that gives slightly to gentle pressure and has a fragrant aroma is perfect.
Ingredient Swaps & Variations
This recipe is flexible—here are some easy substitutions:
- Bread: Swap baguette for sourdough, ciabatta, or a country loaf.
- Ricotta: Use goat cheese or cream cheese for a tangier twist. Dairy-free? Try a whipped cashew spread.
- Peaches: Out of season? Use nectarines, plums, figs, or thinly sliced pears.
- Balsamic glaze: Reduce balsamic vinegar on the stove until thick, or drizzle honey with balsamic for sweetness.
- Herbs: Fresh basil is classic, but mint or oregano work too.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Bread thickness: Slice about ½-inch thick. Too thin burns, too thick becomes hard to bite.
- Overripe peaches: They’ll turn mushy and water down the topping.
- Watery ricotta: Drain ricotta for 30 minutes before whipping to avoid soggy crostini.
- Assembling too early: Keep toppings separate until ready to serve so the bread stays crisp.
Serving Ideas
This bruschetta shines as a summer appetizer, but it can also round out a meal:
- Pair with an arugula salad dressed simply with lemon and olive oil.
- Add a platter of Italian meats like prosciutto or salami for a savory balance.
- Serve with a chilled glass of prosecco or pinot grigio to complement the flavors.
Storage Tips
- Whipped ricotta: Store in an airtight container up to 3 days.
- Peach-tomato topping: Best fresh but keeps 1–2 days in the fridge.
- Bread: Store toasted slices in a paper bag for 1 day, or slice ahead and toast just before serving.
- Make ahead: Prep ricotta and bread slices, then mix topping just before serving for best texture.
Peach Bruschetta with Whipped Ricotta Recipe
Prep Time: 15–20 minutes
Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
Total Time: 30–40 minutes
Servings: 6–8 as an appetizer
Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
- 1 baguette, sliced into ½-inch slices
- ¼ cup unsalted butter (or olive oil)
- 4 garlic cloves, finely minced (divided)
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, chopped
- 3 medium peaches, diced
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Juice of ½ lemon
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1 cup ricotta cheese (drained)
- Balsamic glaze, for drizzling
Instructions
Step 1 – Prepare Garlic Bread
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) or heat grill to high. Mix butter with half the garlic and a pinch of salt. Spread on baguette slices and place on a baking sheet.
Step 2 – Toast the Bread
Bake for 10–12 minutes, or grill 1–2 minutes until golden and crisp.
Step 3 – Make the Peach Topping
In a bowl, combine peaches, tomatoes, remaining garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Let sit to marinate.
Step 4 – Whip the Ricotta
Blend ricotta in a food processor until smooth and creamy. Transfer to a bowl.
Step 5 – Assemble
Spread ricotta over toasted bread. Top with peach-tomato mixture, sprinkle with basil, and finish with balsamic glaze. Serve immediately.
Final Thoughts
This Peach Bruschetta with Whipped Ricotta is everything you want in a summer appetizer—fresh, flavorful, and easy to pull together. With its balance of sweet peaches, creamy ricotta, and tangy balsamic, it’s sure to be the star of any warm-weather gathering.