Method

Preheat the oven to 325° F/160° C.

To make the baked ricotta, whisk together all the ingredients in a large bowl until smooth and creamy.

Pour into a greased 9 x 5 x 3-inch loaf pan and bake for 1 hour or until set.

Gently remove from the oven and set aside  to cool before storing in the refrigerator overnight to set firmly.

To make the spiced fruit, place the prepared apples and pear in a frying pan with the honey, spices, and water.  Gently cook over low heat for 5 minutes.  Turn off the heat, cover and leave to steep and soften.

To serve, bring the baked ricotta to room temperature.  Alternatively, it can be served warm straight from the oven.  Gently turn out onto a large platter and spoon the fruits over the top.  Sprinkle with the grated nutmeg if desired.

Makes enough for 12

"Traditionally winter comfort food, this dessert could also be enjoyed with summer berries.  It is a great vehicle for other summer fruit, too, such as plums and apricots."  Michal Haines

Reprinted with permission from ©Michal Haines,The Spice Kitchen: Flavorful Recipes from Around the World, by Michal Haines, published by Interlink Books  click for book review

more dessert recipes        more chef & cookbook dessert recipes     more about pears and pear recipes