Heart-Shaped Flatbread with Ricotta and Herbs

Name: Heart-Shaped Flatbread with Ricotta and Herbs
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 3/4 cup water; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely adore making heart-shaped flatbreads, especially when they're stuffed with creamy ricotta and fresh herbs. The process is not only simple but incredibly rewarding, as the flatbreads come out warm and fragrant, perfect for sharing with loved ones. Whether served as an appetizer or a romantic side dish, they add a touch of charm to any meal. Plus, I love that I can customize the herbs to suit my taste, making every batch uniquely my own.

Created by

Holly James

Last updated on 2026-01-07T10:25:09.321Z

When I first experimented with heart-shaped flatbreads, I was pleasantly surprised by how easy they were to make. I realized that by using a simple dough recipe, I could craft these delightful shapes that not only look amazing but also taste fantastic. The key to success is letting the dough rest, allowing it to become soft and pliable, which makes it easier to shape and cook evenly.

One delightful detail I discovered is that adding fresh herbs to the ricotta filling elevates the flavor beautifully. I used a mix of basil and chives, which paired perfectly with the creamy texture of the ricotta, creating a delicious contrast. These flatbreads are a hit at gatherings and make any meal feel extra special!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A unique twist on traditional flatbread that's perfect for sharing
The creamy ricotta filling combined with fresh herbs adds a burst of flavor
Heart shapes make them visually appealing for special occasions

      

The Art of Shaping Heart Flatbreads

Shaping the dough into heart forms can be the most delightful part of this recipe. To ensure they turn out beautifully, lightly flour your work surface and rolling pin to prevent sticking. As you roll out each portion, aim for a thickness of about 1/4 inch to achieve a nice balance between crispiness and chewiness. If you find the dough tearing, let it rest for a couple more minutes to relax the gluten, making it easier to shape.

Another tip for perfect heart shapes is to use your hands to gently guide the dough into form after rolling. Start by rolling into a circle, and then taper one end into a point while gently pinching the other end to form the top of the heart. This method helps maintain an even thickness while creating a cute heart that will impress anyone you share them with.

Tips for the Perfect Ricotta Filling

The ricotta filling is the star of these flatbreads, so selecting the right quality of cheese is essential. Fresh, creamy ricotta will give a lighter, more delicate flavor and texture compared to drier varieties. If you can, opt for organic ricotta or make it homemade for even better taste. Also, don't skimp on seasoning; a little salt and pepper can elevate the flavors dramatically, ensuring each bite is bursting with deliciousness.

When mixing the filling, use a fork or a whisk to achieve a smooth consistency, which will make it easier to spread on the dough. You can also experiment with other herbs such as parsley or dill depending on your preferences. Just remember, if you prefer a tangy twist, adding finely grated lemon zest can brighten the filling beautifully.

Serving and Storing Your Flatbreads

These heart-shaped flatbreads are best enjoyed warm, right off the skillet. For serving, consider pairing them with a side of marinara sauce or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil for dipping. They make a charming addition to a romantic dinner or a festive appetizer spread. You can also serve them alongside a salad for a light meal or as a side to soups.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium-low heat for about 2 minutes on each side until warmed through. Freezing is also an option; wrap them tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat for the best texture.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your tasty heart-shaped flatbread!

Dough Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking powder
3/4 cup water
2 tablespoons olive oil

Filling Ingredients

1 cup ricotta cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Once you have all the ingredients, you're ready to start making the flatbreads!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your heart-shaped flatbreads.

Make the Dough

In a bowl, combine the flour, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add water and olive oil, mixing until a dough forms. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth.

Cover with a damp cloth and let rest for 10 minutes.

Prepare the Filling

In a separate bowl, mix the ricotta, Parmesan, chopped herbs, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Shape the Flatbreads

Divide the dough into 4 equal portions. Roll each portion into a heart shape on a floured surface. Use a rolling pin for better thickness.

Fill and Cook

Place a spoonful of the ricotta mixture in the center of each heart-shaped dough. Fold over and seal the edges by pressing them together. Cook in a preheated skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown.

Enjoy your delicious heart-shaped flatbreads warm!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, brush the flatbreads with garlic-infused olive oil before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to add a binding agent like xanthan gum if your blend does not already contain it. Similarly, if ricotta isn’t available, you can use cottage cheese blended until smooth or even a plant-based cream cheese for a dairy-free alternative.

Feel free to mix and match herbs according to what you have on hand. Thyme, oregano, or even crushed red pepper flakes can add exciting flavors to the filling. If you like a stronger cheesy flavor, try adding feta instead of or in addition to the Parmesan.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your flatbreads turn out too tough, it could be due to over-kneading the dough. Remember, kneading should be just enough to bring the ingredients together into a smooth ball. If the dough seems too dry, you can incorporate a teaspoon of water at a time until it reaches a pliable consistency.

Another common issue might be uneven cooking, resulting in some pieces being doughy while others are overdone. To combat this, maintain an even heat on your skillet. If your flatbreads are browning too quickly, reduce the heat slightly and ensure there is enough space in the pan to cook them evenly.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe can easily be doubled if you’re planning a gathering or want to freeze some for later. Simply scale up your ingredients proportionally, and allow for extra resting time for the dough if you feel it needs it. Keep in mind that larger batches may require a larger cooking surface, so you might need to cook in batches or use two skillets to accommodate all the flatbreads.

For an even more impressive presentation, consider making different fillings and shaping some flatbreads in various ways, like circles or triangles. This variety will enhance the visual appeal on your serving platter and cater to diverse taste preferences among your guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought dough?

Yes, you can use store-bought pizza or bread dough for a quicker option.

→ What herbs can I use in the filling?

Feel free to use any fresh herbs you like, such as parsley, thyme, or oregano.

→ How can I store leftover flatbreads?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

→ Can I freeze these flatbreads?

Yes, you can freeze them before cooking. Just thaw and cook when you're ready to enjoy!