What are Turkish poached apricots with ricotta made of?

Turkish poached apricots with ricotta are made using soft dried apricots, a lemon-sugar syrup, creamy whole milk ricotta, and crushed pistachios. The apricots are gently simmered until plump, then filled with ricotta and topped with a sweet drizzle of syrup and crunchy nuts. It’s a simple yet elegant dessert with deep cultural roots in Turkish cuisine.

Can I make Turkish poached apricots with ricotta ahead of time?

Absolutely! One of the best parts of Turkish poached apricots with ricotta is that they can be prepared in advance. You can poach the apricots and refrigerate them in their syrup for 1–2 days. Just fill them with ricotta and garnish with pistachios before serving. This make-ahead option makes them ideal for dinner parties or holiday spreads.

Is there a vegan version of Turkish poached apricots with ricotta?

Yes, there is a delicious vegan version of Turkish poached apricots with ricotta . Instead of dairy ricotta, use a creamy cashew or almond-based vegan ricotta. You can also opt for chopped walnuts blended with a bit of maple syrup to mimic the filling texture. The result is just as flavorful and completely plant-based.

How long should I poach dried apricots?

For the best texture in Turkish poached apricots with ricotta , simmer the dried apricots for about 20 minutes over medium-low heat. They should be plump but still hold their shape. Overcooking can make them too soft, while undercooking leaves them chewy and dry.

What type of ricotta is best for stuffing poached apricots?

Use whole milk ricotta for a creamy, rich filling that pairs perfectly with the sweet, syrupy apricots. Make sure it’s not too watery—strain if needed—to prevent soggy results. The goal is a smooth, thick filling that stays put inside the poached apricot halves.

Can I use fresh apricots instead of dried?

While the traditional recipe for Turkish poached apricots with ricotta calls for dried apricots due to their sweetness and texture, you can use fresh apricots in a pinch. However, you’ll need to shorten the poaching time significantly and use firmer fruit. Keep in mind that dried apricots hold their shape better and absorb syrup more effectively.

Turkish Poached Apricots – A Luscious, Easy Treat Ready in 20 Minutes

Name: Turkish Poached Apricots – A Luscious, Easy Treat Ready in 20 Minutes
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: Turkish
Ingredients: 1 cup dried Turkish apricots; 1 1/4 cups water; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 cinnamon stick (optional); 1/4 cup chopped pistachios or walnuts; Clotted cream or thick yogurt, for serving

Turkish Poached Apricots – A Luscious, Easy Treat Ready in 20 Minutes

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Author: Maria
Prep Time: 1 hour (soaking time)
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Simmering
Cuisine: Turkish
Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Turkish Poached Apricots, or ‘Kayısı Tatlısı,’ are a classic dessert made by gently simmering dried apricots in a lightly spiced sugar syrup until plump and tender. Often filled with nuts and topped with clotted cream or yogurt, they offer a perfect balance of sweetness and floral aroma.

Ingredients

Units Scale

1 cup dried Turkish apricots
1 1/4 cups water
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 cinnamon stick (optional)
1/4 cup chopped pistachios or walnuts
Clotted cream or thick yogurt, for serving

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Instructions

Rinse the dried apricots and soak them in warm water for about 1 hour until softened.
In a small saucepan, combine 1 1/4 cups water, sugar, lemon juice, and cinnamon stick (if using). Bring to a gentle simmer.
Drain the apricots and add them to the syrup. Simmer uncovered on low heat for 15–20 minutes, or until the apricots are plump and tender.
Remove the cinnamon stick and let the apricots cool in the syrup.
Optional: gently open each apricot and fill with chopped pistachios or walnuts.
Serve chilled or at room temperature, topped with clotted cream or a dollop of yogurt and extra nuts.

Notes

Use high-quality Turkish dried apricots for the best texture and flavor.
Can be made a day in advance—the flavor improves as it chills.
Add a splash of rose water to the syrup for a traditional floral note.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 portion (with nuts and cream)
Calories: 210
Sugar: 28g
Sodium: 5mg
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 10mg

Find it online: https://cooktune.com/turkish-poached-apricots-ricotta/