Simple Whipped Ricotta Dip with Balsamic, Cranberries, and Rosemary Recipe
This Simple Whipped Ricotta Dip with Balsamic and Cranberries is a smooth and creamy appetizer perfect for entertaining. Whipped ricotta is blended with cream cheese, honey, lemon juice, and salt to create a luscious base. It is topped with sweet dried cranberries, fresh rosemary, cracked black pepper, flaky sea salt, and a generous drizzle of tangy balsamic glaze. Served alongside toasted sourdough baguette slices, this dip offers a delightful combination of sweet, savory, and herbal flavors in every bite.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes (toasting bread)
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: About 6 servings 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 for best flavor)
- 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 cheese, softened cream cheese, honey, juice of half a small lemon, and salt. Blend on high for about one minute until the mixture becomes completely smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the salt if needed. Scrape down the sides once or twice to ensure even mixing.
- Chill the Whipped Ricotta: Transfer the whipped ricotta mixture from the blender into a bowl. Cover and place it in the refrigerator to chill and allow the flavors to meld while preparing the toppings.
- Prepare the Toppings: While the ricotta dip chills, finely chop the dried cranberries and mince the fresh rosemary. This ensures balanced sweet and herbal flavor in every bite.
- Assemble the Whipped Ricotta Dip: Spread the chilled whipped ricotta mixture into a shallow serving bowl, creating gentle swirls with the back of a spoon. Generously drizzle balsamic glaze over the top, then scatter the chopped cranberries and minced rosemary evenly. Finish with cracked black pepper and flaky sea salt to taste. For extra presentation and flavor, add an extra pinch of rosemary before serving.
- Serve with Toasted Sourdough Baguette: Arrange toasted sourdough baguette slices on the side and serve the whipped ricotta dip immediately to enjoy it fresh and creamy.
Notes
- Draining excess liquid from the ricotta ensures a thicker, creamier dip.
- Use softened cream cheese at room temperature for easier blending.
- Adjust the honey and salt to your taste preferences.
- For a vegan version, substitute ricotta and cream cheese with plant-based alternatives.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Keywords: whipped ricotta dip, ricotta cheese appetizer, balsamic glaze dip, cranberry dip, rosemary ricotta dip, easy party dip, sourdough baguette dip
