This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our disclosure policy. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Light and airy, our whipped ricotta dip is an easy appetizer recipe that comes together in just minutes! Creamy, velvety ricotta cheese is whipped together with only a few ingredients until it becomes cloud-like, melt-in-your-mouth perfection.
This crowd-pleasing appetizer is perfect for any occasion and is sure to impress your guests! Grab your favorite crisp fresh veggies, crusty bread, or sourdough crackers, and let’s dig in!
Ricotta is a versatile ingredient that goes well in sweet or savory dishes. We use it in desserts like our lemon ricotta tart, tender ricotta cookies, and lemon ricotta cake.
Why This Recipe Works
Whole milk ricotta: Full fat ricotta whips into a thick, pillowy base and gives this creamy ricotta dip its rich texture and clean finish.
A mixer adds fluff: An electric mixer adds air for maximum volume and lift, giving the whipped ricotta a light, mousse-like consistency. A food processor works too, but the texture will be smoother rather than airy.
Sweet-salty contrast: A drizzle of honey plays off the fruity olive oil and pinch of salt, bringing balanced flavor to this ricotta appetizer. It is savory, sweet, and creamy all at once.
Toppings bring texture and balance: Toasted seeds or chopped pistachios add crunch, while fresh herbs and lemon zest cut through the richness. They take this simple cheese spread from basic to beautiful.
If you like this ricotta cheese spread, try my baked ricotta dip next. It’s warm, golden at the edges, and loaded with herbs and garlic for a cozier, more savory take.
Ingredient Notes and Swaps
Whole milk ricotta: Avoid part-skim ricotta. it doesn’t whip as smoothly and lacks the rich texture that makes this dip so good.
Olive oil: Use a flavorful extra virgin olive oil since it’s doing double duty in the base and on top.
Honey options: Regular honey works fine, but hot honey adds a spicy edge.
Crunchy topping: Toasted sunflower seeds or chopped pistachios both add texture. You can also use walnuts or pine nuts.
If you really want to take things up a notch, try using my homemade ricotta cheese for this dip.
How to Serve Whipped Fresh Ricotta
You can use this ricotta dip as a spread or topping for so many things. Here are some serving ideas to make the most of this creamy dip:
- Ricotta crostini or bruschetta: Spoon it onto toasted baguette slices and finish with olive oil, herbs, and flaky sea salt.
- Veggie dip: Pair with crisp, raw veggies like carrots, radishes, celery, and bell peppers.
- With grilled fruit: Try it with grilled peaches or plums for a savory-sweet combo.
- Stuffed peppers: Fill peppadews or mini sweet peppers for a quick appetizer.
- Flatbread base: Spread on warm flatbread and top with prosciutto, apple, and a drizzle of hot honey.
- With roasted beets: Stack slices of roasted beet with dollops of ricotta and a sprinkle of fresh herbs.
- On a charcuterie board: Serve it alongside cured meats, nuts, and fresh fruit.
If you have extra ricotta, make my ricotta gnocchi.
Recipe Tips
Start with cold ricotta: It whips better and holds its shape longer.
Don’t skip the salt: Even a pinch helps round out the flavor.
Toast your seeds or nuts: A quick toast brings out deeper flavor and extra crunch.
Add toppings right before serving: This keeps the herbs bright and the nuts or seeds crisp. If added too early, toppings can wilt or lose their crunch in the moisture of the dip.
Serve at room temp: Cold ricotta will mute the flavors. Let it warm up slightly before serving.
Ricotta Cheese Dip
Whipped ricotta dip proves that simple can still be impressive. This creamy ricotta cheese spread delivers big flavor and texture with minimal effort. Serve it as an appetizer dip at a party or keep it all to yourself for snacking.
It’s one of those recipes that will save your day if you need a last-minute dish to bring to a party. Just serve it with some naan bread or crostini for a delicious snack.
More Dips for Your Party
Got Questions?
Freezing isn’t ideal. Ricotta tends to separate when thawed, which can ruin the smooth, creamy texture. It’s best made fresh or refrigerated short-term.
Technically, yes, but it won’t whip as well and may turn out grainy. Whole milk ricotta is recommended for the best texture and flavor.
Pin this now to find it later!
Pin It
Whipped Ricotta Dip
If you make this recipe, please leave a star rating and comment.
Ingredients
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 3 to 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- pinch salt
Toppings
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons sunflower seeds , or chopped pistachio nuts, toasted
- 2 tablespoons chopped herbs, thyme, parsley, mint, or rosemary
- lemon zest
Instructions
- Place the ricotta and salt in a mixing bowl. Whip on medium speed for 2 to 3 minutes until light and airy. Alternatively, you can process the ricotta in a food processor fitted with a blade attachment.
- Spoon the whipped ricotta into a serving bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, honey, sunflower seeds, and lemon zest.
- Serve with fresh veggies, toast, crackers, or pita chips.
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Like this recipe? Rate & comment below!
