Introduction

This refreshing ricotta dessert is a creamy and tangy treat perfect for any occasion. Layered with fresh berries and a hint of lemon, it’s light, naturally sweetened, and delightfully easy to make.

A clear glass dessert cup holds three visible layers: the bottom layer has a mix of red raspberries and blackberries partly covered by a creamy white yogurt layer that forms the middle and biggest layer, with some berries peeking through. The top layer is a small dollop of white whipped cream garnished with whole blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, and thin light brown almond slices. The cup stands on a clear pedestal, placed on a white marbled surface scattered with extra blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, and almond slices in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

24 oz Whole milk ricotta cheese (or 2%)
1 tbsp Heavy cream (or more as needed)
1 tbsp Lemon zest (or 2 tbsp for more lemony flavor)
1/2 cup Besti Powdered Monk Fruit Allulose Blend (or more to taste)
2 tsp Vanilla extract
1 cup Raspberries
1 cup Blueberries
1 cup Blackberries
Sliced almonds (optional, for topping)
Whipped cream (optional, for topping — sugar-free recommended)

Instructions

Step 1: In a high-power blender, combine ricotta cheese, heavy cream, lemon zest, powdered sweetener, and vanilla extract. Blend for about 1 minute until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Step 2: If the mixture is too thick or doesn’t blend well, gradually add more heavy cream, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency. Taste and adjust sweetness as needed.
Step 3: Prepare four parfait cups by layering the ricotta whip and mixed berries alternately, creating two layers of each.
Step 4: If desired, top each parfait with whipped cream and a sprinkle of sliced almonds for added texture and flavor.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh lemon zest for the brightest flavor, and increase to 2 tablespoons if you prefer a more pronounced lemon taste.
Substitute the sweetener with powdered sugar or honey if you’re not avoiding sugar, adjusting to taste.
Try using different berries or seasonal fruit to keep the dessert fresh and exciting year-round.
Add a splash of liqueur, such as limoncello or Amaretto, to the ricotta blend for an adult twist.

Storage

Store the ricotta whip separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the berries fresh and assemble just before serving for the best texture. If assembled, consume within 24 hours. Reheat is not recommended; serve chilled.

How to Serve

A clear glass cup filled with creamy white yogurt that has blueberries mixed inside, topped with a mix of fresh raspberries, blackberries, blueberries, and a sprinkle of sliced almonds. The berries add a bright color contrast with deep black, red, and blue hues, while the almonds give a light brown texture on top. A silver spoon is sticking out from the side of the cup. The cup sits on a white marbled surface with bits of sliced almonds scattered nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use low-fat or part-skim ricotta for this recipe?

Yes, you can use low-fat or part-skim ricotta, but whole milk ricotta gives a richer and creamier texture. Adjust the cream quantity as needed to achieve your preferred consistency.

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

You can prepare the ricotta mixture in advance and refrigerate it, but it’s best to assemble the parfaits just before serving to prevent the berries from becoming soggy and to keep the dessert fresh.

Ricotta Berry Parfait with Lemon Zest and Almond Topping Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.5 from 57 reviews

A light and refreshing ricotta dessert featuring creamy ricotta cheese blended with lemon zest, sweetened with powdered monk fruit and vanilla, layered with assorted fresh berries. This dessert is easy to prepare, naturally sweetened, and perfect for a healthy treat or elegant parfait presentation.

Author: Dana
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Blending
Cuisine: American
Diet: Low Calorie

Ingredients

Scale

Dairy and Sweeteners

24 oz Whole milk ricotta cheese (or 2% ricotta)
1 tbsp Heavy cream (or more as needed)
1/2 cup Besti Powdered Monk Fruit Allulose Blend (or more to taste)
2 tsp Vanilla extract

Flavoring

1 tbsp Lemon zest (or 2 tbsp for more lemony flavor)

Fruits

1 cup Raspberries
1 cup Blueberries
1 cup Blackberries

Optional Toppings

Sliced almonds (optional, for topping)
Whipped cream (optional, for topping — sugar-free recommended)

Instructions

Blend Ricotta Mixture: In a high-power blender, combine the ricotta cheese, heavy cream, lemon zest, powdered monk fruit sweetener, and vanilla extract. Blend for about 1 minute until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Adjust Consistency and Sweetness: If the mixture is too thick or difficult to blend, add additional heavy cream one tablespoon at a time until the desired creamy consistency is achieved. Taste and add more sweetener if desired.
Layer the Parfaits: In four parfait cups, create alternating layers by spooning in ricotta whip and then a mix of raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries. Repeat to form two layers of each.
Add Toppings: Optionally, garnish the top of each parfait with a dollop of sugar-free whipped cream and a sprinkle of sliced almonds for added texture and flavor.

Notes

Use whole milk ricotta for the creamiest texture, but 2% ricotta will also work.
Lemon zest can be increased to 2 tablespoons for a stronger citrus flavor.
Adjust sweetness by adding more or less powdered sweetener to suit your taste preference.
Use fresh berries for best flavor and texture; frozen berries may be used but let them thaw and drain excess liquid.
For a dairy-free variation, try a plant-based ricotta alternative and coconut-based whipped cream.

Keywords: ricotta dessert, berry parfait, lemon ricotta, sugar-free dessert, creamy ricotta, healthy dessert