Name: Spicy Ricotta Dip with Hot Honey Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-487316H45M19S
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese; 1/4 cup cream cheese (optional for extra creaminess); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust for desired heat level); 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste; 2-3 tablespoons hot honey (store-bought or homemade); Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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This Spicy Ricotta Dip with Hot Honey is the perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and sweet flavors. The rich texture of ricotta cheese pairs beautifully with a kick of heat from chili flakes, complemented by the sweetness of hot honey. It’s an irresistible dip that will elevate any appetizer spread, whether you’re serving it at a casual gathering, a game night, or even as a part of a more formal meal. Pair it with crispy bread, crackers, or fresh veggies for the ultimate bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Spicy Ricotta Dip with Hot Honey combines two of the most beloved flavors: creamy cheese and spicy heat. The ricotta provides a smooth, rich base, while the chili flakes add just the right amount of heat. The addition of hot honey gives the dip a sweet kick that balances out the spice and creates a unique flavor profile that’s both comforting and exciting. It’s quick to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making it a perfect appetizer for any occasion.

Spicy Ricotta Dip with Hot Honey Recipe

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
1/4 cup cream cheese (optional for extra creaminess)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust for desired heat level)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
2-3 tablespoons hot honey (store-bought or homemade)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the ricotta base: In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, cream cheese (if using), olive oil, chili flakes, garlic powder, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well until everything is fully incorporated and the dip becomes smooth.
Adjust the heat: Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning. If you prefer more heat, add extra chili flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Serve the dip: Transfer the ricotta dip to a serving bowl and drizzle with the hot honey, using more or less depending on your preference for sweetness and heat.
Garnish: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
Serve: Serve immediately with crusty bread, crackers, or sliced vegetables for dipping.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4-6
Prep time: 10 minutes
Total time: 10 minutes

Variations

Add more spices: For a deeper flavor, you can add smoked paprika or cumin to the dip. This will introduce a mild smokiness that pairs beautifully with the heat.
Herb variations: Experiment with other herbs like basil, thyme, or chives for different flavor profiles.
Vegetarian twist: Add roasted vegetables like bell peppers or eggplant on top of the dip for a more substantial appetizer.
Dairy-free version: Swap the ricotta and cream cheese for dairy-free alternatives such as tofu or cashew cream. Add a little nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: The dip is best served fresh, but if you prefer to reheat it, do so gently in the microwave or over low heat on the stovetop. Be sure to add a little olive oil to keep it smooth.

FAQs

Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes! This dip can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just be sure to drizzle the hot honey on top just before serving to keep it fresh.

Is the dip spicy?

Yes, the dip has a nice spicy kick from the chili flakes, but it’s balanced by the sweet hot honey. You can adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer chili flakes depending on your taste.

Can I make my own hot honey?

Yes! To make your own hot honey, simply heat up some honey with a few slices of fresh chili pepper or a teaspoon of chili flakes. Let it infuse for about 10 minutes, then strain out the peppers before using it in the dip.

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of ricotta?

While ricotta is the main cheese in this recipe, you can substitute it with mascarpone for a creamier texture or goat cheese for a tangier flavor. The dip will taste slightly different, but still delicious.

What should I serve with this dip?

This dip is great with crusty bread, pita chips, crackers, or fresh veggies like carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers. You can also serve it with sliced baguette for a more substantial appetizer.

How spicy is the dip?

The dip has a mild to medium level of heat, depending on how much chili flakes you add. The hot honey helps balance out the heat with its sweetness, so it’s not overly spicy.

Can I adjust the sweetness of the dip?

Yes, you can adjust the amount of hot honey based on your preferred level of sweetness. Add more honey if you like it sweeter, or less if you prefer the dip to be more on the savory side.

Can I use ricotta from a different brand?

Yes, you can use any brand of ricotta cheese. If you prefer a creamier texture, look for a whole-milk or creamy ricotta.

Is this dip vegetarian?

Yes, this dip is vegetarian, as it contains no meat products. You can easily make it vegan by using dairy-free ricotta and cream cheese alternatives.

Can I use this dip for a sandwich or wrap?

Absolutely! This dip can work as a spread for sandwiches, wraps, or even burgers. The creamy texture and spicy-sweet flavor make it a perfect addition to a variety of dishes.

Conclusion

This Spicy Ricotta Dip with Hot Honey is a perfect balance of heat and sweetness, making it a standout appetizer for any gathering. Its creamy texture, flavorful spices, and the sweet kick from the hot honey will leave everyone coming back for more. It’s quick to make, easily customizable, and pairs well with a variety of dippables, making it the ultimate crowd-pleasing recipe!

Chef MARTHA