If you have a soft spot for creamy, dreamy dips that combine just the right amount of sweet heat and silky texture, then the Whipped Ricotta Cheese & Hot Honey Dip Recipe is about to become your new obsession. This delightful dish brings together the lush, mild flavor of ricotta whipped to perfection and the tantalizing kick of warm, spicy honey. It’s an ultra-versatile dip that breezes between being a crowd-pleasing appetizer or an indulgent breakfast treat. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this dip is refreshingly straightforward, with each item playing a crucial role in making this dish sing. From the lush creaminess of the ricotta to the vibrant punch of the chili flakes, every component enhances the flavor, texture, or appearance in a simple yet essential way.
- 16 oz whole milk ricotta: The star ingredient, providing a rich and velvety base that’s creamy but light.
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil plus more for greasing: Adds a fruity, peppery depth while helping achieve that perfect silky consistency.
- 3 tbsp spicy honey: Brings a luscious sweetness balanced with a gentle heat to electrify your taste buds.
- Coarse sea salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors and adding a satisfying crunch with each bite.
- Chili flakes: Sprinkle these in for a pop of spice that complements the honey’s sweetness beautifully.
- Fresh parsley, chopped: Finishes the dish with a fresh, herbaceous note and a burst of vibrant green color.
How to Make Whipped Ricotta Cheese & Hot Honey Dip Recipe
Step 1: Whip the Ricotta
Start by placing the whole milk ricotta and 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil into the base of a food processor. Blend until the mixture transforms into a luxuriously smooth and airy cream. This step is key for achieving that melt-in-your-mouth texture that makes this dip so irresistible.
Step 2: Warm the Honey
While whipping the ricotta, lightly grease a small microwave-safe bowl with olive oil to prevent sticking. Pour in the spicy honey and warm it gently in the microwave until it’s just warmed through, releasing its sweet floral aroma and allowing the heat to soften slightly—perfect for drizzling later.
Step 3: Assemble the Dip
Transfer your beautifully whipped ricotta into a shallow serving dish, smoothing the surface with a spatula for an inviting presentation. Drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil evenly over the top, then follow with a generous stream of the warmed hot honey. The contrast of cold and warm textures is an absolute treat.
Step 4: Add Finishing Touches
Sprinkle coarse sea salt, chili flakes, and the chopped fresh parsley over the dip. These finishing garnishes provide layers of texture, bursts of flavor, and a lovely visual contrast that makes this dip not only delicious but stunningly inviting.
How to Serve Whipped Ricotta Cheese & Hot Honey Dip Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra special touch, consider adding toasted nuts like pistachios or almonds for crunch, or a handful of microgreens for a delicate, fresh bite. Each garnish can elevate the dip in subtle yet exciting ways.
Side Dishes
This whipped ricotta and hot honey dip shines when paired with crunchy crostini, rustic bread slices, or crisp vegetable sticks like cucumber and carrot. The contrast of textures makes every bite perfectly balanced and keeps guests reaching back for more.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this dip as part of a vibrant antipasto platter with olives, marinated artichokes, and cured meats, or try dolloping it atop roasted peaches or grilled flatbread for a fabulous twist. It’s as versatile as it is delicious, letting you tailor the presentation to suit any occasion.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers—which is rare—store the dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors tend to deepen and meld overnight, making the second-day dip equally delightful.
Freezing
Because of its fresh, creamy nature, freezing this whipped ricotta and hot honey dip isn’t recommended, as it can alter the texture and cause separation. It’s best enjoyed fresh or stored briefly in the fridge.
Reheating
If you want to rewarm the honey topping, gently microwave it until warm but not boiling, then drizzle it again. The ricotta itself is best served chilled or at room temperature, preserving its lovely whipped consistency.
FAQs
Can I make this dip without a food processor?
Absolutely! You can whip the ricotta by hand using a whisk or a hand mixer, though it may take a few extra minutes to reach that smooth, fluffy consistency.
What kind of honey works best?
Try to use a spicy or infused honey, like one with chili or chipotle, to get that wonderful heat that contrasts beautifully with the ricotta’s creaminess.
Is whole milk ricotta necessary?
Whole milk ricotta provides the best creamy texture and flavor, but you can use part-skim ricotta if needed; just know it might be a little less rich.
Can I adjust the spice level?
Definitely! The amount of chili flakes and hot honey can be customized to your preference, whether you prefer a gentle warmth or something with a bit more kick.
What else can I serve with this dip?
Beyond bread and veggies, consider serving it alongside grilled meats or roasted vegetables for a delicious appetizer or snack.
Final Thoughts
I cannot recommend the Whipped Ricotta Cheese & Hot Honey Dip Recipe enough—it’s incredibly easy to make but feels so special and indulgent. Whether you’re entertaining guests or just treating yourself to something wonderfully flavorful, this dip brings joy and comfort in every bite. So go ahead, whip it up, drizzle that honey, and watch it disappear!
Print
Whipped Ricotta Cheese & Hot Honey Dip Recipe
- Total Time: 11 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
This whipped ricotta and hot honey dip is a luscious, creamy appetizer or breakfast treat that combines the richness of smooth ricotta with the sweet heat of spicy honey. Finished with a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil, a sprinkle of sea salt, chili flakes, and fresh parsley, it’s perfect for serving alongside crostini or fresh bread.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 16 oz whole milk ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for greasing
- 3 tbsp spicy honey
- Coarse sea salt, to taste
- Chili flakes, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Whip Ricotta: Place the ricotta and 2 tablespoons of the extra-virgin olive oil into the base of a food processor. Pulse and blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring a whipped texture.
- Warm Honey: Lightly grease a small, microwave-safe bowl with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking. Add the spicy honey to the bowl and microwave it for about 20-30 seconds, or until it is warmed and more fluid.
- Assemble Dip: Transfer the whipped ricotta to a shallow serving bowl, smoothing it into an even layer for presentation. Drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the top, followed by the warmed spicy honey.
- Garnish and Season: Sprinkle coarse sea salt, chili flakes, and chopped fresh parsley evenly over the dip according to your taste preferences.
- Serve: Present the dip alongside crostini, toasted bread, or your choice of crackers. Enjoy immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use whole milk ricotta for the creamiest texture; part-skim ricotta can be substituted but may be less rich.
- If you prefer milder heat, adjust the amount of chili flakes or use a mild honey instead of spicy honey.
- The olive oil greasing step prevents the honey from sticking and helps warm it evenly in the microwave.
- This dip can be served as a breakfast spread or an elegant appetizer.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; stir before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 minute
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
