Ricotta with Vanilla-Sugar Croutons and Berry Syrup

Name: Ricotta with Vanilla-Sugar Croutons and Berry Syrup
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1/4 ciabatta loaf (4 ounces), cut into 1-inch cubes (4 cups); 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; 1 1/2 tablespoons Vanilla Sugar (recipe follows); 1/2 cup fresh orange juice (from 1 medium orange); 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (from 1 to 2 lemons); 1/2 cup sugar; 1 cup blueberries; 8 strawberries, hulled and quartered; 1 1/2 cups whole-milk ricotta cheese; 3 teaspoons grated orange zest (from 1 medium orange); 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest (from 1 lemon); 1 tablespoon Vanilla Sugar (recipe follows); Fresh mint sprigs or leaves, for garnish; 2 cups sugar; 1 vanilla bean; (makes 2 cups)

December 20, 2011

When I was little my grandfather used to spread fresh ricotta on a slice of bread for me and top it with a thick layer of sugar. I loved it then and I still love these flavors together. This is a somewhat healthier version of that childhood treat. The bread now plays a starring rather than supporting role in the form of sweet, crunchy croutons paired with ripe berries and creamy cheese—sooo good. Serve it for breakfast if you are feeling decadent.

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