Dessert

Spicy Ricotta Dip with Hot Honey Recipe

BySimon Carel December 2, 2025December 2, 2025

Introduction

This Spicy Ricotta Dip with Hot Honey is a creamy, flavorful appetizer that balances mild ricotta with a sweet and spicy honey drizzle. It’s perfect for entertaining or a simple snack with crackers or crostini. The addition of toasted walnuts and fresh rosemary adds texture and brightness to every bite.

A white bowl filled with creamy white yogurt spread in soft swirls creating a textured base, topped with glistening amber honey drizzled in a spiral pattern, small golden-brown walnut pieces scattered evenly across, bright green rosemary sprigs placed gently for contrast, and a dusting of red chili flakes adding tiny red specks; a golden spoon scoops into the center, lifting a creamy swirl. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups fresh ricotta cheese (whole milk preferred for creaminess)
Zest from half a lemon
A dash of 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)
1/2 tsp crushed chili flakes
1/4 cup runny honey
1 tsp spicy sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)
1/4 cup chopped walnuts (toasted for deeper flavor)
1 to 2 tsp fresh chopped rosemary

Instructions

Step 1: In a food processor or high-speed blender, combine the ricotta cheese, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, pepper, and olive oil. Blend on high speed until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy, about 1-2 minutes. Spread the whipped ricotta in a shallow bowl and set aside.
Step 2: In a small bowl, mix together the runny honey, spicy sauce, and crushed chili flakes until fully combined to create the sweet and spicy hot honey drizzle.
Step 3: Drizzle the hot honey mixture evenly over the smooth ricotta in the bowl. Sprinkle the chopped toasted walnuts and fresh rosemary on top to add texture and aroma.
Step 4: Serve the dip immediately with crackers or crostini. Invite guests to scoop the creamy ricotta and honey mixture onto their bites and enjoy the blend of creamy, sweet, and spicy flavors.

Tips & Variations

For a dairy-free version, try using a plant-based ricotta alternative or blended silken tofu.
Toast the walnuts lightly to enhance their flavor and crunch before adding them as topping.
Adjust the chili flakes and hot sauce amount to suit your preferred spice level.
Fresh herbs like thyme or basil can be substituted for rosemary for a different aromatic touch.

Storage

Store any leftover ricotta dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the hot honey drizzle separate and add it just before serving to maintain its texture and flavor. Reheat the dip gently at room temperature and stir before serving, but avoid microwaving as it may change the ricotta’s texture.