Dessert

Spicy Ricotta Dip with Hot Honey Recipe

BySana Jeannette December 8, 2025December 8, 2025

Introduction

This spicy ricotta dip with hot honey is a delightful appetizer that balances creamy, spicy, and sweet flavors perfectly. It’s easy to prepare and makes a beautiful addition to any charcuterie board or snack spread.

The image shows a round white bowl filled with a creamy white dip, swirled into a circular pattern with a drizzle of golden olive oil on top. The dip is sprinkled with small reddish-brown spices and tiny green herb leaves, adding texture and color contrast. A fresh green leaf is placed on one side as a garnish. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with warm light highlighting the creamy texture and rich 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 1–2 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 hot honey over the top. Top with cracked pepper, lemon zest, and herbs if desired.
Step 5: Serve immediately with crostini, pita chips, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetables like sweet peppers or cucumber slices.

Tips & Variations

Adjust the chili flakes and hot sauce to control the level of heat according to your preference.

For a dairy-free version, try using a plant-based ricotta alternative.
Adding fresh herbs like thyme or chives enhances the freshness and complexity of the dip.
Serve with assorted fresh vegetables for a lighter, crunchy option.

Warm the dip slightly before serving to enhance its creamy texture.

Storage

Store the ricotta dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the hot honey separate and drizzle just before serving to preserve its texture and flavor. Reheat gently if desired, but avoid overheating to maintain the creamy consistency.

How to Serve

A close-up top view of a creamy white spread swirled smoothly inside a round brown bowl, with three visible textured layers of thick, fluffy cream arranged in concentric circles. The spread is drizzled generously with golden yellow olive oil that pools in the grooves of the swirls, creating a shiny contrast. Scattered finely on top are small dark red chili flakes and a few fresh green thyme leaves, adding color and texture. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface, and the background shows blurred hints of additional ingredients like a small white bowl with spices and a jar. 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 in advance. Store both in the refrigerator and combine just before serving for the freshest taste.

What can I serve with this spicy ricotta dip?

This dip pairs wonderfully with crostini, pita chips, sliced baguette, and fresh vegetables such as sweet peppers and cucumber slices. It also complements charcuterie boards well.