Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I wandered through a vibrant pumpkin patch the other day, I couldn’t help but daydream of Halloween treats that blend a bit of creativity with culinary charm. Enter the Halloween Jack Skellington Ricotta Olive Tarts—a savory delight that turns a classic spooky character into a party centerpiece! This recipe is not only gluten-free, making it accessible to everyone at your table, but it also comes together quickly, letting you focus on the fun. With rich ricotta and briny olives coming together in a whimsical design, these tarts will impress your guests and satisfy your craving for something homemade. Ready to create a dish that’s both a treat for your taste buds and a feast for the eyes? Let’s dive into this deliciously frightful adventure! Why Make Jack Skellington Tarts? Irresistible Flavor: The sweet and savory balance of creamy ricotta and tangy olives ensures a taste that will excite your palate. Halloween Spirit: Fun and festive, these tarts bring a playful theme to your gathering, perfect for impressing guests. Quick Preparation: With simple steps and lower prep time, you’ll have more moments to enjoy the festivities. Gluten-Free Goodness: Everyone deserves a delicious treat, and this gluten-free recipe accommodates dietary preferences without sacrificing flavor. Eye-Catching Presentation: Adorned like Jack Skellington, these tarts double as a stunning centerpiece that will leave guests in awe, just like Herby Ricotta Stuffed peppers at your table! Versatile Options: Feel free to mix the filling; consider adding spinach or artichokes for extra nutrition and taste. Halloween Jack Skellington Ricotta Olive Tarts • Get ready for a spook-tacular treat everyone will love! For the Tart Crust Gluten-Free Tart Crust – Provides structure and a flaky texture for the tarts; you can use a premade gluten-free crust for convenience. Sweet Rice Flour – Adds chewiness to the crust; this ingredient has no direct substitute. Millet Flour – Contributes a mild flavor; if needed, almond flour can serve as a replacement. Gluten-Free Oat Flour – Gives a soft texture; you can make your own by grinding oats if necessary. Tapioca Flour – Acts as a binder for the crust; cornstarch can substitute if you’re in a pinch. Kosher Salt – Enhances overall flavor; any salt can be used, just adjust the measurement if needed. Unsalted Butter – Creates a rich, flaky crust; substitute with vegan butter for a dairy-free option. Ice Water – Necessary for the perfect dough consistency; remember to keep it cold. For the Filling Black Olives – These provide the main decoration and a briny contrast; feel free to use your preferred variety. Sun-Dried Tomatoes – Adds richness and tang; ensure they’re packed in oil for enhanced flavor. Fresh Thyme Leaves – Provides herbaceous notes; dried thyme can be a substitute, just adjust the quantity. Parmesan Cheese – Adds savory depth; swap with nutritional yeast for a vegan alternative. Ricotta Cheese – Creamy base filling that’s essential for taste and texture; cottage cheese or dairy-free ricotta can be used instead. Greek Yogurt – Contributes tanginess and creaminess; sour cream can replace it if needed. Egg Whites – Provides structure to the filling; for a vegan version, consider flax eggs or aquafaba. Garlic – Infuses the filling with flavor; garlic powder can be used as an optional substitute. With these delightful ingredients, your Halloween Jack Skellington Ricotta Olive Tarts will be the highlight of any spooky celebration! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Halloween Jack Skellington Ricotta Olive Tarts Step 1: Prepare the Crust In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sweet rice flour, millet flour, gluten-free oat flour, tapioca flour, and kosher salt. Cut in the cold unsalted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, about the size of peas. Gradually add ice water, mixing until the dough just holds together. Shape into a disc, wrap in plastic, and chill in the fridge for 30 minutes to firm up. Step 2: Preheat Oven While the dough chills, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the oven reaches the optimal temperature for baking, allowing your Halloween Jack Skellington Ricotta Olive Tarts to get that perfect golden-brown crust. Meanwhile, gather your tart pans and prepare them with a light coat of cooking spray to prevent sticking. Step 3: Roll Out Dough Once chilled, place the dough between two sheets of parchment paper. Roll it out to about ⅛ inch thick, aiming for circles that are slightly larger than your tart pans. Gently transfer each dough circle into the pans, pressing it into the edges. Trim any excess dough hanging over the sides, and prick the bottoms with a fork to prevent bubbling. Step 4: Bake the Crusts Place the filled tart pans into your preheated oven and bake for 12 minutes or until just lightly cooked and set. The crust should be pale and starting to firm up – this initial baking step helps create a foundation for the savory filling. Keep an eye on them to ensure they do not brown too much at this stage. Step 5: Prepare Filling In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Greek yogurt, egg whites, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps. This savory mix will provide a rich contrast to the briny toppings. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired before filling the tarts. Step 6: Fill and Decorate Tarts Once the crusts are pre-baked and cool enough to handle, fill each tart shell generously with the ricotta mixture, smoothing it out evenly. Take the black olives and artfully place them on top for Jack Skellington’s eyes and nose, using julienned olive strips to create a spooky smile. Get creative; make each tart a unique masterpiece! Step 7: Bake Return the decorated tarts to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly puffed. The tops should lightly brown, creating a beautiful, festive look for your Halloween Jack Skellington Ricotta Olive Tarts. Keep an eye on them towards the end to prevent over-baking. Step 8: Serve Warm Once out of the oven, let the tarts cool for a few minutes before carefully transferring them to a serving platter. They are best enjoyed warm, offering a creamy filling and a flaky crust that everyone will love. Prepare for compliments as your creative Halloween treat dazzles your guests! Halloween Jack Skellington Ricotta Olive Tarts Variations Feel free to let your creativity shine and adapt this spooky recipe to your liking! Dairy-Free: Substitute ricotta cheese with a creamy dairy-free alternative like cashew or almond-based cheese for a vegan-friendly option. The flavors will still delight, ensuring everyone can enjoy these festive tarts. Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the ricotta filling for a zesty kick. This will awaken your taste buds and create an exciting savory experience. Herb-Infused: Toss in fresh basil or oregano with the ricotta for an aromatic boost. The fresh herbs will enhance the savory profile, making each bite irresistible—much like the lovely herbs found in Herby Ricotta Stuffed peppers! Savory Veggies: Mix in finely chopped cooked spinach or roasted bell peppers to the filling for added nutrition and flavor. It makes the filling vibrant and colorful, appealing to the eyes as well as the palate. Cheesy Goodness: Try blending in a bit of mozzarella or fontina cheese for a richer, cheesier experience. This will create a wonderfully gooey texture that diners will adore. Caramelized Onion: Incorporate some caramelized onions into the filling for a sweet contrast to the olives. This adds depth and a luscious sweetness that balances beautifully with the savory elements. Sun-Dried Tomato Magic: Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the filling for a tangy burst. Their concentrated flavor enhances the overall taste and complements the olives beautifully, just like how a sprinkle of them can elevate other dishes! Alternative Crust: Experiment with a nut-based crust using ground almonds or pecans mixed with a little coconut flour. The nutty flavor will add a delightful crunch, taking the tarts to a new level of deliciousness. Embrace these ideas to create your own unique spin on the Halloween Jack Skellington Ricotta Olive Tarts and let the festivities begin! Expert Tips for Halloween Jack Skellington Ricotta Olive Tarts Keep It Cold: Ensure your butter and water are ice-cold when preparing the crust. This step is vital for achieving a flaky texture in your Halloween Jack Skellington Ricotta Olive Tarts. Don’t Overmix: When combining the dough ingredients, mix just until they come together. Overworking can make the crust tough; remember, less is more! Chill for Success: After shaping the dough, chilling it in the fridge is essential. It helps to relax the gluten in gluten-free flours, ensuring a tender crust. Creative Decoration: Use chopsticks or tweezers to place olive decorations precisely on the tarts. This attention to detail makes your tarts visually appealing and fun for Halloween! Taste as You Go: When preparing the filling, taste before filling the tarts. Adjust the seasoning to ensure every bite is bursting with flavor in your Halloween Jack Skellington Ricotta Olive Tarts. Make Ahead Options These Halloween Jack Skellington Ricotta Olive Tarts are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the festivities! You can prepare the tart crust up to 24 hours in advance; simply follow the crust instructions, wrap it tightly, and refrigerate. To maintain the flaky texture, avoid rolling out the crust until you’re ready to bake. The filling can also be made up to 3 days ahead—mix the ricotta, Greek yogurt, and seasonings, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When it’s time to serve, just assemble the tarts by filling the pre-baked crusts and decorating with olives before popping them in the oven. Your tarts will taste just as delicious and save you precious preparation time! Storage Tips for Halloween Jack Skellington Ricotta Olive Tarts Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the unbaked tarts wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before baking. Reheating: Reheat baked tarts in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes until warmed through and the crust is crispy again. Enjoy your Halloween Jack Skellington Ricotta Olive Tarts fresh! What to Serve with Halloween Jack Skellington Ricotta Olive Tarts The perfect Halloween gathering deserves delightful accompaniments that elevate your savory tarts to a full-fledged feast. Crispy Green Salad: A refreshing mix of leafy greens with a zesty vinaigrette adds crunch, balancing the creamy tarts beautifully. Roasted Vegetable Medley: Seasonal vegetables like butternut squash and Brussels sprouts offer rich flavors and textures that complement the tarts wonderfully. Pumpkin Soup: A warm, spiced pumpkin soup creates a cozy backdrop, enhancing the Halloween spirit while providing another layer of flavor. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, buttery, and garlicky, these breadsticks provide a delightful contrast to the flaky crust of the tarts, making every bite satisfying. For a festive touch, consider a Halloween-themed cocktail. A Witch’s Brew Sangria made with dark fruits and a splash of sparkling soda adds a fun and whimsical flair to your celebration! Chocolate Mousse: A rich, creamy, and oh-so-chocolatey dessert rounds off your meal perfectly, delighting guests who appreciate a sweet finish after savory treats. Halloween Jack Skellington Ricotta Olive Tarts Recipe FAQs How do I select the right olives for my tarts? Absolutely! When choosing black olives, look for varieties that are firm and have a shiny, dark exterior. Avoid any that have dark spots all over, as this may indicate spoilage. You can use Kalamata, black ripe olives, or even green olives for a standout flavor—pick your favorite! What is the best way to store leftover tarts? Very good question! For optimal freshness, place leftover Halloween Jack Skellington Ricotta Olive Tarts in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Before serving again, warm them up in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to revive their flaky texture and flavors. Can I freeze these tarts? Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked tarts. Wrap each tart tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to bake, thaw them in the fridge overnight, and they’ll be ready for the oven without losing their deliciousness. What should I do if my crust turns out tough? If your crust is tough, it might be overworked or the butter could have been too warm. Next time, make sure your butter is ice-cold and mix just until the ingredients hold together. Chilling the dough is also essential; it relaxes the gluten, which is particularly important for gluten-free flours. Are these tarts suitable for people with allergies? Definitely! While this recipe is gluten-free, it does contain dairy from the ricotta and butter. For dairy-free options, substitute the ricotta with a vegan ricotta, and use vegan butter. If you’re concerned about allergens, always double-check labels on all ingredients to ensure they’re safe for your guests. Halloween Jack Skellington Ricotta Olive Tarts You’ll Love No ratings yet Enjoy these Halloween Jack Skellington Ricotta Olive Tarts, a gluten-free savory delight perfect for festivities. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 35 minutes minsChilling Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 35 minutes mins Servings: 12 tartsCourse: AppetizersCuisine: AmericanCalories: 210 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Tart Crust1 pre-made crust Gluten-Free Tart Crust Convenience option1 cup Sweet Rice Flour1/2 cup Millet Flour Almond flour can be a substitute1 cup Gluten-Free Oat Flour Homemade by grinding oats if necessary1/4 cup Tapioca Flour Cornstarch can substitute1 tsp Kosher Salt1/2 cup Unsalted Butter Use vegan butter for dairy-free option6 tbsp Ice Water Keep it coldFor the Filling1/2 cup Black Olives For decoration1/2 cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes Packed in oil for flavor2 tbsp Fresh Thyme Leaves Dried thyme can be used1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese Nutritional yeast for vegan option1 cup Ricotta Cheese Cottage cheese or dairy-free ricotta as alternatives1/2 cup Greek Yogurt Sour cream as replacement2 large Egg Whites Flax eggs or aquafaba for vegan version2 cloves Garlic Can use garlic powder as substitute Equipment Mixing bowlsRolling PinTart pansParchment Paper Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPrepare the crust by whisking together sweet rice flour, millet flour, gluten-free oat flour, tapioca flour, and kosher salt. Cut in cold unsalted butter, then gradually add ice water. Shape into a disc, wrap in plastic, and chill for 30 minutes.Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) while the dough chills. Prepare tart pans with a light coat of cooking spray.Roll out dough between two sheets of parchment paper to about ⅛ inch thick. Transfer circles into tart pans and trim excess dough, pricking bottoms to prevent bubbling.Bake crusts for 12 minutes until just lightly cooked. They should be pale and starting to firm up.In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, Greek yogurt, egg whites, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt. Stir until smooth and creamy, adjusting seasoning as desired.Fill pre-baked crusts with ricotta mixture. Decorate with black olives for Jack Skellington's features, using julienned olive strips for embellishment.Return decorated tarts to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until filling is set and lightly browned.Allow tarts to cool slightly before transferring to a serving platter. Serve warm and enjoy! Nutrition Serving: 1tartCalories: 210kcalCarbohydrates: 22gProtein: 6gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 3.5gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg NotesEnsure butter and water are ice-cold for a flaky crust. Chill dough to relax gluten in gluten-free flours. Use precise placements for olive decorations for a visually appealing tart. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
