This creamy, smooth whipped ricotta dip is an easy yet elegant appetizer, elevated with a drizzle of spicy hot honey, fresh rosemary, and crunchy walnuts. The perfect combination of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors makes this dip a standout dish for any gathering. Serve it with crostini, crackers, or fresh bread for a crowd-pleasing snack.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy – Ready in just 5 minutes with minimal effort.
- Light & Creamy – Whipped ricotta creates a smooth and airy texture.
- Perfect Flavor Balance – Sweet honey, spicy chili flakes, and fresh herbs complement each other beautifully.
- Versatile Serving Options – Enjoy it with crackers, bread, or fresh vegetables.
- Great for Entertaining – A simple yet gourmet appetizer for holidays, game days, or dinner parties.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 cups fresh whole milk ricotta cheese (about 475g)
- Zest from half a lemon
- Juice from half a lemon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Pinch of ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup liquid honey
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes
- 1-2 teaspoons fresh rosemary, minced
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
Directions
- Whip the Ricotta – In a food processor or high-speed blender, combine the ricotta cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and olive oil. Blend on high until the mixture is smooth and creamy, about 1-2 minutes. Transfer the whipped ricotta to a shallow serving bowl and set aside.
- Prepare the Hot Honey – In a small bowl, mix together the honey, hot sauce, and chili flakes until well combined.
- Assemble the Dip – Drizzle the hot honey mixture over the whipped ricotta.
- Garnish – Sprinkle the chopped walnuts and minced rosemary over the top of the dip.
- Serve – Serve immediately with crackers, pita chips, crostini, or slices of sourdough bread.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4-6 servings
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Calories: Approximately 150 kcal per serving
Variations
- Nut-Free Option – Skip the walnuts or use pumpkin or sunflower seeds for crunch.
- Extra Spicy – Increase the chili flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Herb Swap – Try thyme or basil instead of rosemary for a different flavor profile.
- Citrus Twist – Add a squeeze of orange juice for a touch of sweetness.
- Savory Variation – Drizzle with balsamic glaze instead of hot honey for a tangy touch.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftover whipped ricotta dip in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Best served cold or at room temperature—no reheating needed.
- Make Ahead: Whip the ricotta and prepare the honey mixture in advance. Assemble just before serving.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought hot honey instead?
Yes! If you have pre-made hot honey, simply drizzle it over the ricotta instead of mixing your own.
What type of ricotta works best?
Whole milk ricotta provides the creamiest texture, but part-skim ricotta can be used for a lighter version.
Can I make this dip dairy-free?
Yes! Use a dairy-free ricotta alternative made from almonds or cashews.
How can I make this dip extra smooth?
Blending longer or adding a tablespoon of heavy cream will make the ricotta even creamier.
What should I serve with whipped ricotta dip?
Crostini, crackers, pita chips, sourdough bread, or fresh veggies like cucumbers and carrots work well.
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the whipped ricotta and hot honey separately, then assemble before serving.
What other toppings can I add?
Try toasted sesame seeds, or caramelized onions for extra depth of flavor.
Should I serve this dip warm or cold?
It’s best served cold or at room temperature for optimal flavor.
Can I use another cheese instead of ricotta?
Mascarpone or whipped goat cheese would be great substitutes for a similar creamy consistency.
Can I substitute maple syrup for honey?
Yes, but it will have a slightly different sweetness. Adjust the chili flakes to balance the flavors.
Conclusion
Whipped ricotta dip with hot honey is a simple yet sophisticated appetizer that blends creamy, sweet, and spicy flavors in one delicious bite. Whether for entertaining or a quick snack, this dip pairs beautifully with a variety of dippers and is sure to impress. Try it today and elevate your appetizer game!
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Whipped Ricotta Dip with Hot Honey
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Whipped Ricotta Dip with Hot Honey is a creamy, savory-sweet appetizer that’s ready in just 5 minutes! Velvety ricotta is blended with lemon and olive oil, then topped with spicy hot honey, fresh rosemary, and crunchy walnuts. Perfect for serving with crostini, crackers, or pita chips at your next gathering!
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh whole milk ricotta cheese (about 475g)
- Zest from half a lemon
- Juice from half a lemon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Pinch of ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup liquid honey
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes
- 1–2 teaspoons fresh rosemary, minced
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
Instructions
- Blend the Ricotta: In a food processor or high-speed blender, combine the ricotta cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and olive oil. Blend on high until the mixture is smooth and creamy, about 1-2 minutes. Transfer to a shallow serving bowl and set aside.
- Make the Hot Honey: In a small bowl, mix together the honey, hot sauce, and chili flakes until well combined.
- Assemble the Dip: Drizzle the hot honey mixture over the whipped ricotta.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped walnuts and minced rosemary for extra crunch and aroma.
- Serve: Enjoy immediately with crackers, pita chips, crostini, or sourdough bread.
Notes
- For a nut-free option, swap walnuts for toasted sunflower or pumpkin seeds.
- Add a touch of whipped cream cheese for an extra creamy texture.
- Make ahead: Store whipped ricotta in the fridge for up to 2 days. Drizzle hot honey and add toppings just before serving.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Dip
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Mediterranean, Italian-Inspired
