If you’re looking for a dessert that’s light, luscious, and just a little bit different from the traditional, this Ricotta Cheesecake with Plums is sure to capture your heart (and your taste buds). Combining the creamy richness of ricotta cheese with the tart sweetness of fresh plums, this elegant dessert is the perfect blend of rustic charm and refined flavor.
Unlike a dense New York-style cheesecake, this version uses ricotta for a lighter texture and more delicate taste. It has a rustic Italian feel—simple ingredients, not too sweet, and a natural finish. The ricotta makes the filling fluffy and moist without being heavy, giving each bite an airy, melt-in-your-mouth quality.
The plums on top not only add a vibrant pop of color, but their naturally tangy flavor perfectly balances the creaminess of the cheesecake. When roasted slightly or caramelized with a touch of honey or brown sugar, they release juices that create a beautiful glaze. You can arrange them artfully on top or bake them in for bursts of flavor.
This cheesecake makes a stunning centerpiece for dinner parties, weekend gatherings, or even as a treat for a quiet evening. It feels fancy, but it’s incredibly easy to make. No water bath required, and minimal prep time means more enjoyment and less stress.
You can serve it chilled or at room temperature. Either way, the flavors shine through beautifully. Pair it with a cup of coffee, a dessert wine, or even sparkling water with citrus, and you’ve got a dream-worthy dessert moment.
Another bonus? It’s a forgiving recipe. The ricotta helps prevent cracking, and the topping of juicy plums hides any imperfections. Even beginners can pull this off and impress their guests.
This cheesecake also keeps well in the fridge, making it a great make-ahead dessert for entertaining. And as it sits, the flavors deepen, making it even better the next day.
Whether you use red plums, black plums, or a mix, the result is always gorgeous and delicious. A sprinkle of powdered sugar, some chopped pistachios, or a drizzle of honey can add that final wow factor.
So if you want to try something that’s both simple and show-stopping, this Ricotta Cheesecake with Plums is a must. It’s a fresh take on a classic that’s bound to become a favorite.
Servings: 8–10 slices
Time:
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Cooling + Chilling Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 5 hours 15 minutes
Ingredients:
For the crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
For the filling:
- 2 cups whole milk ricotta cheese
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
For the topping:
- 4–5 ripe plums, pitted and thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
- Optional: powdered sugar, chopped pistachios, or fresh mint
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
- In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until evenly combined. Press into the bottom of the pan. Bake for 8 minutes, then let cool.
- In a large bowl, beat ricotta and cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar, eggs, vanilla, lemon zest, and flour. Mix until well combined.
- Pour the filling over the crust and smooth the top.
- Arrange sliced plums over the filling. Drizzle with honey or sprinkle with brown sugar.
- Bake for 50–55 minutes, or until the center is just set and the edges are slightly golden.
- Cool in the pan at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving.
- Garnish with powdered sugar, pistachios, or mint if desired.
Tips:
- Drain ricotta in cheesecloth if it’s watery.
- For a gluten-free version, use GF graham crackers.
- Don’t overbake—the center should still jiggle slightly.
- Chill overnight for best texture and flavor.
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
- Light, creamy, and not overly sweet.
- Stunning presentation with roasted plums.
- Easy to make with minimal prep.
- A fresh, elegant twist on classic cheesecake.
- Perfect for make-ahead entertaining.
Summary: Ricotta Cheesecake with Plums is a light, creamy dessert with rustic elegance. Featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, fluffy ricotta filling, and juicy plum topping, it’s a simple yet sophisticated dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ricotta Cheesecake with Plums Recipe
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
For the filling:
- 2 cups whole milk ricotta cheese
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
For the topping:
- 4 –5 ripe plums pitted and thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
- Optional: powdered sugar chopped pistachios, or fresh mint
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
- In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until evenly combined. Press into the bottom of the pan. Bake for 8 minutes, then let cool.
- In a large bowl, beat ricotta and cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar, eggs, vanilla, lemon zest, and flour. Mix until well combined.
- Pour the filling over the crust and smooth the top.
- Arrange sliced plums over the filling. Drizzle with honey or sprinkle with brown sugar.
- Bake for 50–55 minutes, or until the center is just set and the edges are slightly golden.
- Cool in the pan at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving.
- Garnish with powdered sugar, pistachios, or mint if desired.
Notes
- Drain ricotta in cheesecloth if it's watery.
- For a gluten-free version, use GF graham crackers.
- Don’t overbake—the center should still jiggle slightly.
- Chill overnight for best texture and flavor.
