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 bread); 16 oz. whole milk ricotta (such as Luizi); 1 small garlic clove, grated; 3/4 tsp. kosher salt (for ricotta); 1 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil (to blend into ricotta); 3 tbsp. hot honey; 1 tsp. coarsely chopped fresh rosemary

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Introduction

This Hot Honey Whipped Ricotta recipe combines creamy ricotta with a touch of heat and sweetness, perfect for a simple yet sophisticated appetizer or snack. Crispy fried bread slices make the ideal vehicle to enjoy this flavorful spread.

A close-up view of a small bowl filled with three main layers: the bottom layer is creamy white smooth yogurt, swirled on top with a glossy orange-red oil, creating shallow pools across the surface; sprinkled lightly over the top are small green dried herb flakes. The white bowl sits on a white marbled surface, and on the left side, a piece of golden toasted bread partly dips into the yogurt. 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 into the hot oil and fry, reducing heat to medium if the bread begins to darken too quickly. Cook until golden brown on each side, about 1 to 2 minutes per side. Transfer fried bread to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Repeat this process using 1 tablespoon of olive oil for 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 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 whipped.

Step 3: Transfer the whipped ricotta to a serving bowl. Use the back of a spoon to spread it around, creating swirls and dollops. Drizzle the ricotta generously with hot honey and sprinkle the fresh rosemary on top. Serve immediately with the fried bread.

Tips & Variations

Use day-old bread for better frying results and extra crunch.
Swap fresh rosemary with thyme or basil for a different herbal note.

Adjust the hot honey amount to control the level of heat and sweetness.
For a nutty twist, sprinkle toasted pine nuts over the ricotta before serving.

Storage

Store leftover whipped ricotta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The fried bread is best enjoyed fresh but can be kept separately in a sealed bag at room temperature for one day to maintain crispness. Reheat bread in a toaster oven to regain crunch before serving.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a white plate filled with a thick layer of creamy white dip that has smooth and soft swirls. On top of the dip, there are orange-red oily streaks spread unevenly and small green herb pieces scattered all over, adding texture and color contrast. A woman's hand with bright red nail polish is dipping a piece of toasted golden-yellow bread into the creamy mixture, creating a drip of the orange sauce hanging from the bread. The plate sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make the whipped ricotta without a food processor?

Yes, you can whip ricotta by hand using a whisk or fork, but it may take a bit longer to achieve a smooth and creamy texture.

What can I substitute for hot honey?

You can make your own hot honey by gently warming regular honey with red pepper flakes, or substitute with honey mixed with a dash of cayenne pepper for a similar sweet and spicy flavor.