Description
This whipped ricotta recipe transforms creamy whole milk ricotta into a light, luscious spread enhanced with lemon zest, honey, and fresh thyme. Perfect as an elegant appetizer, it is simple to prepare and serves beautifully with crostini or toasted pita bread, offering a delightful balance of sweet, savory, and citrus notes.
Ingredients
Scale
Whipped Ricotta Base
- 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
Toppings
- Additional lemon zest
- Additional honey or hot honey for drizzling
- Fresh thyme leaves
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
Serving Suggestions
- Crostini or toasted pita bread
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: Add the ricotta, heavy cream, lemon zest, honey, fresh thyme, salt, and freshly cracked pepper into a medium-sized bowl. This mixture will be the base for your whipped ricotta, ensuring all flavors meld together.
- Whip Until Smooth: Using a hand mixer fitted with the beaters, whip the mixture on medium-high speed for 2 to 3 minutes. Continue beating until the ricotta is light, creamy, and smooth with no lumps remaining.
- Prepare for Serving: Transfer the whipped ricotta into a serving dish. Drizzle the top with additional honey, sprinkle some fresh lemon zest, thyme leaves, and add red pepper flakes if you desire a little heat and color.
- Serve: Present your whipped ricotta with crostini or toasted pita bread to enjoy as a delicious appetizer or snack. The creamy texture and balanced flavors make it perfect for entertaining or a light treat.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, use hot honey or increase the amount of red pepper flakes.
- Adjust the whipping time depending on your preference for texture; whipping longer will lighten the mixture further.
- Use fresh lemon zest for the best citrus aroma and flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Can be served chilled or at room temperature for best flavor.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: whipped ricotta, ricotta spread, ricotta appetizer, easy appetizer, Italian cheese spread, crostini topping
