Name: Bacon, Fig, and Ricotta Tartines
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Modern European
Ingredients: 4 oz thick-cut bacon (thinly sliced); 12 thick slices of grainy bread; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 6 fresh figs (halved or quartered); 2 tbsp maple syrup; 2 tbsp white wine vinegar; Flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper; Smoked paprika (optional); Fresh rosemary sprigs (for garnish)

There’s something magical about a dish that combines flavors and textures so perfectly it feels like a bite of pure joy. That’s exactly what these Bacon, Fig, and Ricotta Tartines deliver. Imagine the crunch of toasted grainy bread, the smoky crispiness of bacon, the luscious creaminess of ricotta, and the sweet burst of figs, all tied together with a hint of rosemary and a whisper of smoky paprika. It’s the kind of appetizer that makes you feel fancy without being fussy.

This recipe is my go-to for gatherings when I want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. The tartines come together quickly, but they feel elevated—like something you’d find at a cozy, trendy café. Whether you’re hosting friends for brunch or looking for a snack that feels like a little treat-yourself moment, this dish fits the bill. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy and Quick: This recipe is straightforward, with minimal prep and simple cooking techniques.
Flavor Explosion: It’s a beautiful combination of savory, sweet, and creamy, with a subtle tang from the vinegar.
Perfect for Entertaining: These tartines are a crowd-pleaser, and they’re easy to make in batches for larger gatherings.
Customizable: You can swap ingredients or add your own twist, like using goat cheese instead of ricotta or adding a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness.
Beautiful Presentation: The figs, bacon, and rosemary create a dish that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious.

Each bite feels indulgent, yet the recipe is balanced and surprisingly light. It’s the kind of dish that makes you say, “Why didn’t I make this sooner?”

Preparation Time and Servings

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: Makes 12 tartines (perfect as an appetizer for 6 people or a light meal for 4)
Calories: Approximately 442 calories per serving

Ingredients

To make these Bacon Fig Ricotta Tartines, you’ll need:

4 oz thick-cut bacon: Thinly sliced for that perfect balance of crunch and chew.
12 thick slices of grainy bread: Opt for something hearty, like whole grain or sourdough, to hold up against the toppings.
1 cup ricotta cheese: Creamy and slightly tangy, it forms the base for all the delicious flavors.
6 fresh figs: Halved or quartered, these add natural sweetness (or substitute with dried figs rehydrated in warm water if fresh aren’t available).
2 tbsp maple syrup: A subtle sweetness that complements the smoky bacon.
2 tbsp white wine vinegar: Adds a bit of tang to balance the sweetness and richness.
Flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper: For seasoning.
Smoked paprika: A pinch of this smoky spice takes the flavor to another level.
Fresh rosemary sprigs: For garnish, adding a fragrant herbal touch.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced bacon and cook until it’s golden brown and crispy, about 6–7 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.

Leave about 1 tablespoon of the bacon fat in the skillet—this will be the base for cooking the figs and adding layers of flavor. If you have extra fat, save it for another recipe or discard it safely.

Step 2: Toast the Bread

While the bacon is cooking, prep your bread. Toast the slices of grainy bread until they’re golden and crispy. You can use a toaster, grill pan, or oven—whatever you prefer. The goal is to get the bread sturdy enough to hold the toppings without getting soggy. Set the toasted bread aside.

Step 3: Cook the Figs

To the skillet with the bacon fat, add 2 tablespoons of maple syrup and stir it into the fat over medium heat. Once combined, place the halved or quartered figs in a single layer in the skillet. Cook for about 2–3 minutes, just until the figs are slightly softened and caramelized.

Add the white wine vinegar to deglaze the pan, scraping up any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom. Let the figs cook for another minute, then remove them from the heat.

Step 4: Assemble the Tartines

Now for the fun part—assembly! Take a slice of toasted bread and spread a generous 2 tablespoons of ricotta cheese on top. The ricotta acts as the creamy foundation for all the other toppings.

Next, layer on the caramelized figs. Use 2–3 pieces per tartine, depending on their size. Sprinkle the crispy bacon bits over the figs, ensuring each bite has a little salty crunch.

Season the tartines with a pinch of flaky sea salt, freshly ground black pepper, and a light dusting of smoked paprika. The paprika adds a smoky depth that ties everything together.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Finish the tartines with a sprig of fresh rosemary for a pop of color and a hint of herbal aroma. If you’re serving these as bite-sized appetizers, slice the tartines into smaller portions before plating.

Serve immediately while the bread is warm, and the ricotta is creamy.

How to Serve

These Bacon Fig Ricotta Tartines are versatile and pair beautifully with a variety of dishes and drinks. Here are some serving suggestions:

As an Appetizer: Arrange the tartines on a platter and serve them alongside other small bites like marinated olives or a fresh green salad.
Brunch Option: Pair the tartines with a fruit salad or a light soup for a complete brunch menu.
As a Snack: Enjoy these as a midday treat with a cup of tea or coffee.

Additional Tips

Choose the Right Bread: A sturdy, grainy bread works best to hold up against the creamy ricotta and juicy figs. Avoid soft sandwich bread, as it may become soggy.
Use Fresh Ricotta: For the creamiest texture and best flavor, use high-quality, fresh ricotta. You can even make your own if you’re feeling adventurous!
Don’t Overcook the Figs: Cook the figs just until they’re softened and slightly caramelized. Overcooking can make them mushy.
Make It Ahead: You can cook the bacon and caramelize the figs a few hours in advance. Store them separately and assemble the tartines just before serving.
Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet tartine, reduce the amount of maple syrup or skip it entirely.

Recipe Variations

This recipe is easy to customize to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are some ideas:

Vegetarian Version: Skip the bacon and add toasted nuts (like walnuts or pecans) for a crunchy, savory element.
Goat Cheese Swap: Replace the ricotta with creamy goat cheese for a tangier flavor profile.
Gluten-Free: Use your favorite gluten-free bread to make the recipe gluten-free.
Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Seasonal Fruits: Swap figs for pears or peaches if they’re in season.

Storage and Freezing

These tartines are best enjoyed fresh, but here’s how you can store the components:

Storage: Store leftover bacon and figs separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before assembling.
Freezing: The cooked bacon can be frozen for up to 1 month. The figs, however, are best fresh and may lose their texture if frozen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use dried figs instead of fresh?
Yes! Rehydrate dried figs in warm water for 10–15 minutes, then proceed with the recipe.

What if I don’t have smoked paprika?
You can substitute regular paprika or leave it out entirely.

Can I make these tartines ahead of time?
You can prepare the components in advance, but it’s best to assemble the tartines just before serving to keep the bread from getting soggy.

What’s a good substitute for ricotta cheese?
Goat cheese or cream cheese would work well in this recipe.

Conclusion

There you have it—an easy, elegant recipe for Bacon, Fig, and Ricotta Tartines that’s sure to wow your taste buds and your guests. Whether you’re hosting a party or treating yourself to something special, these tartines are a perfect choice.

I can’t wait to hear how your tartines turn out! If you give this recipe a try, snap a photo and tag me on social media—I’d love to see your creations. Enjoy!