This Whipped Ricotta Dip with Honey and Pistachios is a creamy, savory-sweet appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. The rich, smooth ricotta and cream cheese base is flavored with lemon zest and cinnamon, then topped with roasted pistachios and drizzled with honey for an irresistible finish. Serve with crackers, fresh veggies, or toasted bread for a delightful snack!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This whipped ricotta dip is a crowd-pleasing treat with its perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors. The ricotta and cream cheese base makes it luxuriously smooth, while the roasted pistachios add a satisfying crunch and depth of flavor. The touch of honey ties everything together, giving it a sweet finish. It’s quick to make, customizable with toppings, and ideal for entertaining.

Whipped Ricotta Dip with Honey and Pistachios

Ingredients

For the Roasted Pistachios:

⅓ cup raw shelled pistachios
Olive oil (for drizzling)
1 teaspoon sea salt (more or less to taste)

For the Whipped Ricotta Dip:

16 ounces whole milk ricotta cheese
2 ounces full-fat cream cheese
¼ cup heavy whipping cream
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 teaspoon lemon juice
⅛ teaspoon ground cinnamon
2 tablespoons honey (or hot honey)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Roast the Pistachios:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Spread the pistachios in a single layer on a baking sheet.
Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt.
Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the pistachios are fragrant. Be careful not to burn them.

Make the Whipped Ricotta Dip:

In the bowl of a food processor, combine the ricotta cheese, cream cheese, heavy cream, lemon zest, lemon juice, sea salt, and ground cinnamon.
Pulse until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Assemble:

Scoop the whipped ricotta mixture onto a serving platter.
Sprinkle the roasted pistachios on top and drizzle with honey (or hot honey) for added sweetness and flavor.

Serve:

Serve with your favorite dippers such as crackers, fresh veggies, or toasted bread.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

Notes

Leftovers:

Store the whipped ricotta dip (without the pistachios) in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. Add the pistachios and honey just before serving to keep everything fresh.

Make Ahead:

You can prepare the whipped ricotta dip a day ahead of time and refrigerate it. Just add the pistachios and honey right before serving.

Tips:

For extra flavor, try adding a dash of vanilla extract to the ricotta mixture.
If you prefer a more savory version, swap honey for a drizzle of olive oil or balsamic glaze.
If you want a spicier dip, use hot honey to give the dip a little kick.

Variations

Herb Infused Ricotta: Add fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or rosemary to the ricotta mixture for a herby twist.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the ricotta mixture for a subtle heat that pairs well with the honey and pistachios.
Different Nuts: If you prefer a different nut, try toasted almonds, walnuts, or pecans for a new texture and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the whipped ricotta dip (without the pistachios) in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. The roasted pistachios should be kept in a separate container.
Reheating: This dip is best served chilled. However, if you prefer it at room temperature, let it sit out for about 10 minutes before serving.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese for this dip?

Yes, you can substitute ricotta with mascarpone cheese or cream cheese for a different texture and flavor, though the flavor will be slightly different.

Can I use roasted pistachios?

Yes, you can use pre-roasted pistachios, but the freshly roasted ones add a much richer flavor and texture to the dip.

Can I make this dip without the pistachios?

Yes, you can skip the pistachios or substitute them with any other nuts, like almonds or walnuts, or even roasted seeds for a nut-free option.

Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ricotta mixture and store it in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Just add the pistachios and honey right before serving for the best freshness.

Conclusion

This Whipped Ricotta Dip with Honey and Pistachios is a quick, delicious, and versatile appetizer or snack. With its creamy texture, zesty lemon flavor, and the perfect balance of savory and sweet from the honey and roasted pistachios, this dip is sure to be a hit at any gathering. Serve it with your favorite dippers for a crowd-pleasing treat!

Jessica

Whipped Ricotta Dip with Honey and Pistachios

Why You’ll Love This Recipe