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Classic Whipped Ricotta Dip with Hot Honey Drizzle and Toasted Walnuts

A bowl of creamy whipped ricotta dip topped with candied walnuts, honey drizzle, and fresh thyme sprigs.

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Make this creamy whipped ricotta dip in minutes. It is a simple, elegant appetizer perfect for entertaining, featuring a sweet and spicy hot honey topping and crunchy walnuts.

Ingredients

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  • 15 ounces whole milk ricotta cheese, drained
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1 tablespoon hot sauce (or to taste, for hot honey)
  • 1/4 cup walnut halves, roughly chopped
  • Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Drain the ricotta cheese in a fine-mesh sieve set over a bowl for at least 15 minutes to remove excess liquid.
  2. Toast the walnuts: Place the chopped walnuts in a small, dry skillet over medium heat. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring often, until fragrant and lightly browned. Remove from heat and set aside.
  3. Prepare the hot honey: In a small bowl, mix the honey and hot sauce until combined. Set aside.
  4. Whip the ricotta: Place the drained ricotta cheese, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper into a food processor. Process for 1 to 2 minutes, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed, until the mixture is completely smooth, light, and fluffy.
  5. Transfer the whipped ricotta dip to a shallow serving bowl. Use the back of a spoon to create a slight well or swirl on the surface.
  6. Drizzle the hot honey mixture evenly over the top of the dip.
  7. Sprinkle the toasted walnuts and fresh thyme leaves over the dip. Add a final light drizzle of plain olive oil just before serving.
  8. Serve immediately with crostini, crusty bread, or fresh vegetables for dipping.

Notes

  • For the best texture, use high-quality, whole milk ricotta cheese. If you do not have a food processor, you can use a hand mixer, but you may need to whip for a longer time to achieve the desired fluffiness.
  • If you prefer a milder flavor, use regular honey instead of hot honey, or omit the hot sauce entirely.
  • This dip is best served the day it is made for the lightest texture.

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