Ricotta Dip with Hot Honey

I recently discovered a ricotta dip that has completely transformed my appetizer game, and I can’t stop sharing it with everyone. It’s creamy, dreamy, and just a touch sweet with a little kick—thanks to the hot honey drizzle on top. Every time I serve it, guests are drawn in by the gorgeous presentation and can’t resist digging in before I even get a chance to explain what’s in it.

What I love most about this whipped ricotta appetizer is how effortlessly it comes together. You don’t need a ton of ingredients or hours in the kitchen. In fact, this ricotta cheese dip is made with simple pantry staples—fresh ricotta, a drizzle of honey, a pinch of salt, and a splash of olive oil. Yet, when served with warm toasted bread or crunchy crackers, it somehow tastes like something out of a fancy restaurant.

The magic happens when you add the hot honey. It’s sweet, yes, but also carries a gentle heat that balances perfectly with the creamy, slightly tangy ricotta. The combination of flavors is surprisingly complex but still comforting. I’ve brought this whipped ricotta honey dip to holiday gatherings and casual get-togethers alike, and it’s always the first dish to disappear from the table.

This ricotta dip isn’t just for entertaining, either. I’ve found myself making it on quiet weeknights as a quick snack or even as part of a light lunch spread. A spoonful on toast with a little fresh fruit or a sprinkle of nuts feels indulgent without being heavy. For anyone who enjoys hot honey appetizers or is exploring ricotta dip recipes, this one is absolutely worth trying—it’s a little creamy, a little spicy, and 100% delicious.

Why You’ll Love It

• Creamy, dreamy texture – The whipped ricotta is silky smooth, making every bite feel luxurious without being heavy. It’s the kind of dip that practically melts in your mouth.
• Sweet and spicy harmony – That hot honey drizzle takes this ricotta cheese dip to the next level, balancing sweetness with a gentle heat that keeps your taste buds intrigued.
• Effortless entertaining – Whether it’s a holiday appetizer or a casual get-together, this whipped ricotta appetizer looks impressive but takes almost no time to prepare.
• Versatile serving options – Spread it on crostini, serve with crackers, drizzle over roasted veggies, or even dollop onto a fresh salad. It’s a ricotta dip that adapts beautifully to any occasion.
• Always a crowd-pleaser – I’ve never had leftover hot honey appetizers when serving this. Guests can’t help but go back for more, making it perfect for both family nights and parties.

Ingredient List

For the Ricotta Dip

• 1 ½ cups whole-milk ricotta cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
• 1–2 tablespoons hot honey, plus extra for serving
• ¼ teaspoon sea salt, or to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Optional Garnishes

• Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs
• Crushed red pepper flakes
• Toasted nuts (like almonds or pistachios)
• Sliced baguette or crackers, for serving

Ingredient Notes

• Ricotta cheese – I always use a good-quality whole-milk ricotta (like BelGioioso) for this whipped ricotta honey dip. It’s creamier and richer than the low-fat kind.
• Hot honey – Don’t skip this! It’s the star that gives the ricotta dip its signature sweet-and-spicy punch. Use a local artisanal brand if you can—so worth it.
• Olive oil – A drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil adds a subtle fruitiness that rounds out the flavors beautifully.
• Fresh herbs – Thyme or rosemary aren’t required but elevate this whipped ricotta appetizer from simple to show-stopping.
• Crunchy bread or crackers – Toasted baguette slices are my personal favorite; they soak up just enough ricotta without falling apart.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowl – To whip the ricotta smooth; I love using a medium glass bowl so I can see everything come together.
• Whisk or electric hand mixer – For that perfectly fluffy texture; a hand mixer makes it extra effortless.
• Measuring spoons & cups – Precision matters for the olive oil, salt, and honey. I always keep a set of stainless steel ones handy.
• Spatula – To scrape down the sides and fold in flavors without losing any of that creamy goodness.
• Serving dish or small platter – Presentation matters! I like a shallow, wide dish so everyone can easily dip.
• Small spoon or drizzle bottle – For artfully adding hot honey on top. I like a little control here—it makes it look fancy without stress.

Instructions

Step 1 — Prep Your Ingredients

• Measure out 1 ½ cups of ricotta cheese and place it in your mixing bowl.
• Have 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1–2 tablespoons of hot honey, salt, and pepper ready.
• If you’re using garnishes like herbs or nuts, set those aside so everything is within reach.

Pro tip: Having everything measured and prepped (mise en place) makes whipping the ricotta smooth and stress-free.

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Step 2 — Whip the Ricotta

• Use a whisk or electric hand mixer to beat the ricotta until it’s light and fluffy.
• Gradually drizzle in 2 tablespoons of olive oil while mixing.
• Season with ¼ teaspoon of salt and a few grinds of black pepper. Taste and adjust if needed.

Pro tip: Whisk continuously to prevent lumps and achieve that perfect creamy texture.

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Step 3 — Add the Hot Honey

• Drizzle 1–2 tablespoons of hot honey into the whipped ricotta.
• Gently fold it in with a spatula, leaving some swirls for a pretty marbled effect if you like.

Pro tip: For extra flavor, taste the ricotta first and adjust the honey according to your preferred level of sweetness and heat.

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Step 4 — Plate and Garnish

• Spoon the ricotta mixture into your serving dish and smooth the top with a spatula.
• Drizzle a little extra hot honey over the top for a beautiful finishing touch.
• Sprinkle optional garnishes: fresh herbs, crushed red pepper flakes, or toasted nuts.

Pro tip: Serve with toasted baguette slices or your favorite crackers so everyone can dive right in.

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Step 5 — Serve and Enjoy

• Keep the dip at room temperature for the best texture.
• Watch it disappear fast at parties—it’s addictive!

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Use whole-milk ricotta – It whips up creamier and richer than part-skim or low-fat versions.
• Don’t overmix – Whipping too long can make ricotta grainy; stop once it’s light and fluffy.
• Adjust honey to taste – Start with less and add more if you like it sweeter or spicier.
• Room temperature ricotta – Cold ricotta can be harder to whip; let it sit out for 10–15 minutes first.
• Serve immediately or within a few hours – The dip is best fresh, but you can cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bring to room temp before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

• Ricotta cheese – For a lighter option, try part-skim ricotta, or swap half for mascarpone for extra creaminess.
• Hot honey – You can use regular honey and add a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes for your own spicy twist.
• Olive oil – Melted butter can be used for a richer, more indulgent flavor.
• Toppings – Swap fresh herbs for a drizzle of balsamic glaze, or add pomegranate seeds for a pop of color and sweetness.
• Serving bases – Try pita chips, apple slices, or roasted vegetables instead of bread or crackers for a fun variation.

Serving Suggestions

• I love spreading this whipped ricotta honey dip on toasted baguette slices and topping it with a few crushed red pepper flakes—it’s my go-to holiday appetizer that disappears in minutes.
• Dollop it onto a fresh salad of arugula, roasted beets, and walnuts for a creamy, slightly spicy twist that feels fancy but is so easy.
• Serve it alongside roasted vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers; the hot honey brings out the natural sweetness in every bite.
• Use it as a decadent spread on warm pita bread or crackers for an afternoon snack that feels indulgent without being heavy.
• For brunch, try it on avocado toast with a drizzle of extra hot honey—it’s a creamy, spicy, sweet combination that never gets old.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

• Refrigerate promptly – Store leftover ricotta dip in an airtight container for up to 24 hours.
• Bring to room temperature before serving – Cold ricotta is firmer and less creamy, so let it sit out for 10–15 minutes.
• Do not microwave – Heating can change the texture; stirring gently at room temperature is best.
• Keep garnishes separate – Add nuts, herbs, or extra honey just before serving to maintain freshness and texture.
• Freezing not recommended – Ricotta can become watery when frozen and thawed, so enjoy fresh for the best flavor and texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ricotta dip ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it up to a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge and bring it to room temperature before serving.

Can I use low-fat ricotta?

You can, but whole-milk ricotta gives the creamiest, fluffiest results. Low-fat versions may be a bit denser.

How spicy is the hot honey?

It has a gentle heat that balances the sweetness, but you can adjust the amount or choose a milder honey if you prefer.

What can I serve this dip with?

Toast, crackers, pita chips, roasted veggies, or even fresh fruit all pair beautifully. It’s versatile enough to fit any snack or party spread.

Can I add other flavors to the ricotta?

Absolutely! Fresh herbs, citrus zest, or even a drizzle of balsamic glaze can make it unique and elevate the flavors.

How long does leftover ricotta dip last?

Stored in the fridge in an airtight container, it will stay fresh for about 24 hours. Bring it to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Did you try this recipe? Let me know in the comments how it turned out!