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Spicy Ricotta Dip with Hot Honey Recipe

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4.9 from 21 reviews

This Spicy Ricotta Dip with Hot Honey is a delightful appetizer that combines creamy whipped ricotta cheese with a sweet and spicy hot honey drizzle. Perfect for serving with crostini, pita chips, or fresh veggies, this dip adds a flavorful kick and elegant touch to any gathering or charcuterie board.

Ingredients

Dip

  • 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Fresh cracked pepper
  • Optional: fresh herbs (thyme, basil, or chives)
  • Optional: lemon zest for garnish

Hot Honey Drizzle

  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon hot sauce or chili oil
  • ½ teaspoon chili flakes

For Serving

  • Crostini, pita chips, or sliced baguette
  • Sweet peppers or cucumber slices

Instructions

  1. Whip the Ricotta: Add ricotta cheese, olive oil, salt, and optional garlic powder to a food processor. Blend for 1–2 minutes until the mixture is smooth and creamy. If you don't have a food processor, whisk vigorously by hand or use a hand mixer to achieve a similar texture.
  2. Make the Hot Honey: In a small saucepan, warm the honey together with hot sauce or chili oil and chili flakes. Stir gently and heat just until the mixture is warm and the flavors are infused, taking care not to overheat or boil.
  3. Plate the Dip: Spread the whipped ricotta evenly onto a shallow serving dish. Use the back of a spoon to create decorative swirls on the surface for an attractive presentation. Drizzle the warm hot honey evenly over the top of the ricotta.
  4. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh cracked pepper over the dip, add lemon zest and fresh herbs if desired for brightness and flavor. Serve immediately with crostini, pita chips, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetables such as sweet peppers or cucumber slices.

Notes

  • Adjust chili flakes quantity according to your preferred spice level.
  • Substitute honey with agave nectar or maple syrup for a vegan version, and use vegan ricotta.
  • If unavailable, you can use store-bought whipped ricotta or blend ricotta until smooth with a fork and a bit of olive oil.
  • Warm the hot honey gently to preserve its sweetness and prevent caramelization.
  • Serve immediately for best texture and flavor, but the dip can be chilled for up to one day before serving.