Dessert

Whipped Ricotta with Lemon, Honey, and Fresh Thyme Recipe

Name: Whipped Ricotta with Lemon, Honey, and Fresh Thyme Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 ounces whole milk ricotta; 1 tablespoon heavy cream; 1 tablespoon lemon zest; 1 tablespoon honey or hot honey; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme; 1 large pinch salt; 1-2 cracks of fresh pepper; Additional lemon zest; Additional honey or hot honey for drizzling; Fresh thyme leaves; Red pepper flakes (optional); Crostini or toasted pita bread

ByAiden Wells January 4, 2026January 4, 2026

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Introduction

Whipped ricotta is a simple yet elegant dish that transforms creamy ricotta cheese into a light and airy spread. Perfect as an appetizer or snack, it pairs beautifully with crostini or toasted pita for a delightful treat.

A round wooden bowl sits on a white plate with light grey edges, filled with a creamy white yogurt dip that has a smooth texture. On top of the yogurt are two thin slices of lemon partially submerged, with a drizzle of golden honey forming a swirl, and small green herb leaves scattered over. Around the bowl are several pieces of golden brown toasted bread with crispy edges and holes, arranged on the plate. To the side of the plate is a wooden honey dipper resting on the white marbled surface, next to a half lemon showing its bright yellow interior. A piece of folded striped cloth is partially visible at the bottom right corner. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

8 ounces whole milk ricotta
1 tablespoon heavy cream
1 tablespoon lemon zest (additional for topping)
1 tablespoon honey or hot honey (additional for topping)
1 teaspoon fresh thyme (additional for topping)
1 large pinch salt
1-2 cracks of fresh pepper
Red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Add the ricotta, heavy cream, lemon zest, honey, fresh thyme, salt, and fresh pepper to a medium-sized bowl.
Step 2: Use a hand mixer fitted with beaters to whip the mixture on medium-high speed for 2 to 3 minutes until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Transfer the whipped ricotta to a serving dish and drizzle with additional honey. Sprinkle with extra lemon zest, fresh thyme, and red pepper flakes if using.
Step 4: Serve immediately with crostini or toasted pita bread for dipping.

Tips & Variations

For a tangier flavor, swap lemon zest with a splash of fresh lemon juice.
Try adding minced garlic or finely chopped herbs like basil or chives for an herbaceous twist.
Use spicy hot honey on top for a sweet and spicy kick.
If you prefer a thicker texture, reduce the amount of heavy cream.

Storage

Store leftover whipped ricotta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir gently before serving again. It’s best enjoyed fresh but can be served chilled or at room temperature. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change.

How to Serve

A close-up image shows a woman's hand dipping a toasted golden-brown slice of bread into a small wooden bowl filled with thick white creamy dip topped with a drizzle of golden honey and small green herb sprigs. Inside the bowl, there is also a thin lemon wedge resting on the creamy surface. The bowl sits on a round white plate, which also holds more toasted bread slices with a crispy texture and some holes. A honey dipper with honey is placed on the plate near the bottom right, and a halved lemon is partially visible at the top right. The surface underneath is 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 part-skim ricotta for this recipe?

Yes, you can use part-skim ricotta, but the whipped texture may be less creamy and rich compared to whole milk ricotta.

What can I serve alongside whipped ricotta?

Whipped ricotta pairs well with crostini, toasted pita, fresh vegetables like cucumber or cherry tomatoes, and even as a spread for sandwiches or flatbreads.