Name: Hot Honey Whipped Ricotta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 6 min
Total time: 16 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 6 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, divided; 4 bread slices, cut into 2 diagonal pieces; 1/4 tsp kosher salt (for sprinkling on bread); 16 oz whole milk ricotta (such as Luizi); 1 small garlic clove, grated; 1 tsp kosher salt, divided; 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil (remaining after frying); 3 tbsp hot honey; 1 tsp coarsely chopped fresh rosemary

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Introduction

Hot Honey Whipped Ricotta is a delightful blend of creamy ricotta cheese, spicy-sweet honey, and fragrant rosemary. Paired with crispy fried bread, this easy appetizer offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures that will delight any crowd.

A white bowl filled with smooth, thick white yogurt spread evenly across the surface with swirling patterns. On top, there are several pools of golden-orange oil or sauce settled in the yogurt swirls. Small pieces of green herbs are sprinkled over the yogurt and sauce, adding texture and color contrast. A small piece of toasted bread with a golden, slightly crispy surface is resting on the side of the bowl. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

6 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, divided
4 bread slices, cut into 2 diagonal pieces

16 oz. whole milk ricotta (such as Luizi)
1 small garlic clove, grated

1 tsp. kosher salt, divided
3 tbsp. hot honey

1 tsp. coarsely chopped fresh rosemary

Instructions

Step 1: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat 4 tablespoons of olive oil. Carefully place the bread pieces in the oil and fry, reducing the heat to medium if the bread begins to darken, until golden brown on each side, about 1 to 2 minutes per side. Transfer the fried bread to a paper towel-lined plate. Repeat with 1 tablespoon of oil and the remaining bread pieces. Sprinkle the fried bread with 1/4 teaspoon of kosher salt.
Step 2: In a food processor, combine the ricotta, grated garlic, and 3/4 teaspoon of kosher salt. Blend until smooth. With the motor running on low speed, slowly stream in the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil until the mixture is light and creamy.

Step 3: Transfer the whipped ricotta to a serving bowl. Using the back of a spoon, spread and swirl it around to create dollops and texture. Drizzle the ricotta generously with hot honey, then sprinkle the top with chopped fresh rosemary. Serve immediately with the prepared fried bread.

Tips & Variations

Use day-old rustic bread like sourdough or ciabatta for better texture when frying.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the ricotta for extra heat.

Substitute fresh thyme or basil for rosemary to vary the flavor.
If you don’t have hot honey, mix regular honey with a dash of chili flakes or hot sauce.

Storage

Store any leftover whipped ricotta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The fried bread is best served fresh but can be kept in an airtight container for 1 day; reheat in a dry skillet to restore crispiness. Drizzle hot honey and sprinkle rosemary just before serving to keep the flavors fresh.

How to Serve

A close-up of a white bowl filled with a creamy, white textured dip that has a smooth, swirled surface. The dip is drizzled with a golden-brown sauce and sprinkled with small green herb pieces. A piece of lightly toasted yellow bread is dipped into the mixture, held by a woman's hand with red nails. The bread shows a soft, porous texture and a slightly browned crust. The background features a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

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

Whole milk ricotta works best for its creamy, mild flavor and smooth texture. However, you can experiment with mascarpone or cream cheese for a richer taste, keeping in mind the texture will change.

What is hot honey and where can I find it?

Hot honey is a sweet and spicy condiment made by infusing honey with chili peppers. It’s widely available in most grocery stores or online. You can also make your own by gently warming honey with crushed red pepper flakes.