Print

Spicy Ricotta Dip with Hot Honey Recipe

4.8 from 83 reviews

This Spicy Ricotta Dip with Hot Honey is a luscious, creamy dip combining fresh ricotta, zesty lemon, and a spicy-sweet honey drizzle. Enhanced with toasted walnuts and fresh rosemary, it offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures that make an inviting appetizer or snack perfect for gatherings or casual indulgence.

Ingredients

Scale

Ricotta Dip

  • 2 cups fresh ricotta cheese (whole milk preferred for creaminess)
  • Zest from half a lemon
  • A dash black pepper
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (good quality extra virgin for flavor)
  • Juice from half a lemon
  • 1/4 tsp salt (Morton Coarse Kosher Salt recommended)

Hot Honey

  • 1/2 tsp crushed chili flakes
  • 1/4 cup runny honey
  • 1 tsp spicy sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)

Topping

  • 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (toasted for deeper flavor)
  • 1 to 2 tsp fresh chopped rosemary

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ricotta Dip: In a food processor or high-speed blender, combine the ricotta cheese, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, black pepper, and olive oil. Blend on high speed for about 1-2 minutes until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Spread the whipped ricotta in a shallow bowl and set aside.
  2. Make the Hot Honey: In a small bowl, thoroughly mix the runny honey, spicy sauce, and crushed chili flakes until well combined. This will create a sweet and spicy drizzle.
  3. Assemble the Dip: Drizzle the prepared hot honey mixture over the whipped ricotta spread in the bowl. Then sprinkle the toasted chopped walnuts evenly on top. Finally, garnish with fresh chopped rosemary to enhance flavor and aroma.
  4. Serve: Serve this dip immediately with crackers or crostini. Encourage guests to scoop the creamy ricotta and spicy honey mixture onto their chosen bread for a delightful combination of creamy, sweet, and spicy flavors.

Notes

  • Use whole milk ricotta for the creamiest texture.
  • Toast walnuts gently in a dry pan over medium heat until fragrant to deepen their flavor.
  • Adjust the amount of chili flakes and hot sauce to control the heat level of the honey drizzle.
  • Can be prepared a few hours ahead and refrigerated; bring to room temperature before serving.
  • Pair well with a variety of crackers, crostini, or fresh vegetable sticks.

Keywords: ricotta dip, hot honey, spicy dip, appetizer, easy appetizer, whipped ricotta, savory dip, party snack, lemon ricotta