Dessert

Spicy Ricotta Dip with Hot Honey Recipe

ByRita Bennet December 8, 2025December 8, 2025

Introduction

This Spicy Ricotta Dip with Hot Honey is a perfect appetizer that combines creamy, smooth ricotta with a sweet and spicy kick. It’s easy to prepare and makes an impressive addition to any gathering or charcuterie board.

The image shows a close-up of a brown bowl filled with a creamy white dip that has a fluffy, whipped texture. The dip is swirled in a circular pattern, with golden olive oil drizzled on top in a spiral shape. Small dark green and black herb flakes are scattered over the surface, adding texture and color contrast. Tiny pieces of reddish-brown spice or crushed pepper are sprinkled in the center, giving a pop of warm color. A small fresh green leaf herb is placed on the edge of the dip, adding a fresh, natural touch. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with soft lighting highlighting the creamy texture and colors. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil

½ teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon hot sauce or chili oil

Salt, to taste
Fresh cracked pepper
Optional: fresh herbs (thyme, basil, or chives)

Optional: lemon zest for garnish
Crostini, pita chips, or sliced baguette
Sweet peppers or cucumber slices

Instructions

Step 1: Add ricotta, olive oil, salt, and garlic powder to a food processor. Blend for 1 to 2 minutes until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, whisk vigorously by hand or use a hand mixer.
Step 2: Warm honey in a small saucepan with hot sauce or chili oil and chili flakes. Stir gently and heat just until warm and infused.
Step 3: Spread whipped ricotta onto a shallow dish. Use the back of a spoon to create swirls.

Step 4: Drizzle the hot honey over the top. Garnish with cracked pepper, lemon zest, and fresh herbs if desired.
Step 5: Serve with crostini, pita chips, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetable slices.

Tips & Variations

Adjust chili flakes and hot sauce to your preferred spice level for a milder or spicier dip.

Try swapping ricotta for mascarpone for an even richer texture.
Add a squeeze of lemon juice into the ricotta mixture for extra brightness.
Use flavored honey such as lavender or orange blossom for a unique twist.

Top with toasted nuts or seeds for added texture and flavor contrast.

Storage

Store the ricotta dip covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the hot honey separate and drizzle just before serving to maintain its flavor and texture. Reheat honey gently before use if it solidifies.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a white ceramic bowl filled with a creamy, white dip that has a thick and whipped texture. The dip is swirled in a circular motion, creating soft peaks and valleys. On top of the dip, there is a drizzle of golden olive oil and small bits of a reddish-brown topping, likely spices or cooked vegetables, scattered mostly in the center and along the edges. Small green herb leaves are placed as a garnish, adding a fresh touch. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface, with blurred orange and white items visible softly in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ricotta dip and hot honey separately and store them in the fridge. Combine and serve just before guests arrive.

What can I serve with this spicy ricotta dip?

This dip pairs wonderfully with crostini, pita chips, sliced baguette, sweet peppers, cucumber slices, and other fresh vegetables. It’s also a great addition to a charcuterie board.