Simple Whipped Ricotta Dip with Balsamic and Cranberries Recipe
This Simple Whipped Ricotta Dip with Balsamic and Cranberries is a creamy, smooth, and flavorful appetizer perfect for entertaining. Made by blending whole milk ricotta and cream cheese with honey, lemon juice, and salt, it is chilled and topped with a tangy balsamic glaze, sweet dried cranberries, fresh rosemary, flaky sea salt, and cracked black pepper. Serve it alongside toasted sourdough baguette slices for a delicious and elegant snack or party dip.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: About 4 cups of dip, serving approximately 8-10 people 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
For the Whipped Ricotta Base:
- 16 oz whole milk ricotta cheese (drained of excess liquid)
- 3 oz cream cheese (softened at room temperature)
- 2 tbsp honey
- Juice from 1/2 small lemon
- 1 tsp salt
For the Toppings:
- 2/3 cup dried cranberries (chopped for even distribution)
- 2 tbsp fresh rosemary (finely minced)
- Balsamic glaze (generous drizzle)
- Flaky sea salt (to taste)
- Cracked black pepper (to taste)
To Serve:
- Sourdough baguette (sliced and toasted)
Instructions
- Make the Whipped Ricotta Base: In a blender or large food processor, combine the whole milk ricotta, softened cream cheese, honey, lemon juice, and salt. Blend on high for about one minute until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. Scrape down the sides once or twice as needed to ensure even mixing. Taste and adjust the salt if necessary.
- Chill the Whipped Ricotta: Transfer the whipped ricotta mixture into a bowl, cover it, and place it in the refrigerator. Chilling allows the flavors to meld and the dip to firm up slightly.
- Prepare the Toppings: While the ricotta chills, finely chop the dried cranberries and mince the fresh rosemary. This step ensures balanced flavor distribution in the dip.
- Assemble the Whipped Ricotta Dip: Spread the chilled whipped ricotta into a shallow serving bowl, creating gentle swirls with the back of a spoon. Generously drizzle balsamic glaze over the top, then evenly scatter the chopped cranberries and minced rosemary. Finish with flaky sea salt and cracked black pepper to taste. Optionally, add an extra pinch of rosemary for garnish.
- Serve with Toasted Sourdough Baguette: Arrange toasted slices of sourdough baguette on the side and serve the dip immediately while fresh and creamy for best taste and texture.
Notes
- Drain excess liquid from ricotta for a thicker dip consistency.
- Adjust honey and lemon juice to balance sweetness and acidity to your preference.
- Use freshly ground black pepper and quality flaky sea salt for enhanced flavor.
- The dip is best served fresh but can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- For a vegan variation, substitute ricotta and cream cheese with plant-based alternatives.
Keywords: whipped ricotta dip, ricotta cheese, cream cheese dip, balsamic glaze dip, cranberry dip, appetizer recipe, easy party dip, vegetarian appetizer, sourdough dip
