Spicy Ricotta with Hot Honey

This spicy ricotta dip with hot honey is a simple yet impressive appetizer that never fails to delight guests or brighten up a casual snack time. It combines creamy, tangy ricotta with a sweet heat from the honey drizzle, making it a total crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

I first whipped this up when I needed a quick appetizer for friends dropping by and it quickly became a party favorite that everyone requests again.

Ingredients

• Ricotta cheese: from a whole milk variety gives the dip extra creaminess and a rich texture Choose fresh ricotta with minimal whey for best results
• Lemon zest and juice: brighten the dip adding fresh citrus notes that cut through the creaminess
• Extra virgin olive oil: adds a fruity depth to the ricotta so pick a good quality bottle for maximum flavor
• Coarse kosher salt: helps season evenly and brings out all the flavors without being too harsh
• Crushed chili flakes: provide gentle heat adjust based on your tolerance or guest preferences
• Runny honey: blends easily into the spicy sauce to create that perfect sweet and spicy drizzle
• Spicy sauce: like Frank’s RedHot adds a tangy heat component to balance the sweetness of honey
• Toasted chopped walnuts: add a satisfying crunch and nutty contrast to the creamy dip
• Fresh rosemary: gives an herbaceous aroma and a subtle earthy note for added complexity

Instructions

Build the Ricotta Base:

In a food processor or blender, combine ricotta cheese, lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Blend on high for 1 to 2 minutes until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. This whipping process is key to getting a luscious texture so don’t rush it or you’ll miss that cloud-like quality.

Prepare the Hot Honey Drizzle:

In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, crushed chili flakes, and spicy sauce until fully combined. This mixture should be fluid enough to drizzle over the ricotta but still pack a flavorful punch. Stir occasionally to keep the chili flakes evenly distributed.

Assemble the Dip:

Spread the whipped ricotta into a shallow bowl or serving dish creating a flat surface for the drizzle and toppings. Drizzle the hot honey mixture evenly across the top so every bite gets that sweet heat. Sprinkle the toasted walnuts and chopped rosemary over the surface, adding texture and herbaceous aroma.

Serve Immediately:

Offer the dip with your favorite crackers or toasted crostini. Encourage guests to scoop a bit of ricotta and topping to enjoy the creamy, crunchy, sweet, and spicy mix in every bite.

This dip’s magic lies in the balance of cream and spice My favorite part is the crunchy walnuts that add a satisfying contrast to the silky ricotta. I remember making this for my family’s holiday gathering and the dish got passed around so fast it barely made it to the table!

Storage Tips

Keep the dip covered tightly in the refrigerator and consume within two days to enjoy peak freshness. The texture might firm up when chilled simply let it come to room temperature before serving. If refrigerated longer the walnuts can lose crunch so add fresh ones if needed.

Ingredient Swaps

Ricotta can be swapped for mascarpone for a richer creamy base or goat cheese softened for a tangier alternative. Adjust lemon and salt to taste when using different cheeses. Honey can be replaced with maple syrup for a different but equally lovely sweet note. For heat try using smoked paprika or cayenne powder in the drizzle instead of chili flakes for a different flavor twist.

Serving Ideas

Serve with toasted baguette slices or corn chips for dipping. Spoon into small ramekins for an elegant spread at dinner parties. Add a handful of fresh figs or grapes on the side to complement the sweet and spicy dip. Sprinkle extra fresh herbs like thyme or oregano for a great variation.

This spicy ricotta dip is quick to prepare and sure to impress at any gathering with its perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ What type of ricotta cheese works best?

Whole milk ricotta is preferred for its creamy texture and rich flavor, making the dip smooth and luscious.

→ Can I adjust the heat level of the honey drizzle?

Yes, you can increase or decrease the crushed chili flakes or spicy sauce to make the drizzle as mild or fiery as you like.

→ Why toast the walnuts before adding?

Toasting walnuts enhances their natural flavor and adds a delightful crunch that contrasts with the creamy ricotta.

→ Is there an alternative to fresh rosemary for topping?

Fresh rosemary provides a fragrant note, but thyme or finely chopped basil can be used for a different herbal twist.

→ How long can the dip be stored?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to maintain freshness and flavor.