Primi Piatti: Whipped Ricotta Dip with Spiced Honey & Focaccia

If you're in the mood for something creamy, crave-worthy, and deceptively simple, this Whipped Ricotta Dip with Spiced Honey and Toasted Focaccia is it.

This is the kind of appetizer that turns heads and disappears fast. It’s rich but light, savory with just the right touch of sweetness and heat; and it comes together in under 20 minutes. I started making this dip for casual gatherings and it quickly became the first thing people ask me to bring. It’s elegant, rustic, and totally addictive.

Whether you’re hosting friends, putting together a last-minute spread, or just treating yourself to a solo snack with style, this ricotta dip is a no-fuss, high-reward favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Ricotta Dip

Minimal Ingredients, Maximum Flavor: With pantry staples like olive oil, honey, and spices, you can make something that tastes restaurant-worthy in minutes.

Balanced Sweet, Spicy, and Creamy: The whipped ricotta is smooth and rich. The honey brings warmth, and the red pepper flakes and cayenne give just enough heat to keep things interesting.

Elevated Yet Easy: This is a great dish for entertaining, but it’s just as good spread on warm focaccia on a weeknight.

Customizable: Top it with radishes for crunch, bee pollen for a floral finish, or chopped pistachios for a nutty twist.

How to Make Whipped Ricotta Dip with Spiced Honey

1. Toast the Focaccia

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice focaccia into thick strips or wedges. Drizzle with olive oil and toast for 5–8 minutes until golden and lightly crisp.

2. Whip the Ricotta

In a food processor or mixing bowl, blend 1 cup of whole milk ricotta with a fork or whisk until creamy and smooth (1–2 minutes).

3. Assemble the Dip

Spread your whipped ricotta on a shallow serving plate. Drizzle the honey over the top. Add an extra swirl of olive oil, a pinch of sea salt, paprika, cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, and freshly cracked black pepper.

4. Garnish (Optional)

Finish with bee pollen for a floral touch and thinly sliced radishes for crunch. You can also sprinkle on toasted seeds, chopped herbs, or lemon zest depending on the vibe.

5. Serve

Serve immediately with your toasted focaccia. You’ll want to double it—this goes fast.

A Few Extra Tips

Make Ahead: You can whip the ricotta and prepare the honey ahead of time. Just store them separately and assemble when you're ready to serve.

No Focaccia?: Try with grilled sourdough, warm pita, or crunchy crostini.

Spice It Up or Down: Adjust the red pepper flakes and cayenne to taste. Want it mild? Skip the cayenne altogether and just use paprika for warmth.

Add a Citrus Kick: A little lemon zest stirred into the ricotta adds a fresh, tangy layer.

Share the Love (and the Dip)

This whipped ricotta dip is one of those recipes that feels way fancier than it is. It’s fresh, flavorful, and makes any occasion feel a little more special. I love serving this as a starter at dinner parties or putting it out with a glass of wine when friends drop by.

If you make this, I’d love to hear how it turns out. Rate this recipe or leave a comment, especially if you add your own twist!