Whipped Ricotta with Honey and Herbs

Whipped ricotta is an incredibly easy, elegant spread with a creamy texture that’s perfect to spread over crunchy crostini. It’s a wonderful addition to a charcuterie board! This recipe uses honey and freshly chopped herbs, creating a fresh and flavorful combination that’s delicious on its own or with any number of fresh fruits and cheeses.

whipped ricotta cheese with honey in a white bowl with toasted crostini

What is Ricotta Cheese

For years, the only thing I used ricotta for was making lasagna. I was lukewarm about it and really didn’t give it much thought either way. Then I made my own homemade ricotta (which is surprisingly simple and absolutely worth it – recipe coming soon!) and it changed everything I thought I knew about ricotta cheese.

Ricotta cheese has a light, creamy texture, and mild, slightly sweet flavor. Originating from Italy, ricotta is traditionally made from the whey left over from the production of other cheeses, making it light and fresh. Adding flavors like lemon zest and black pepper or honey and fresh herbs turns it into a luscious, light spread that’s perfect when paired with fresh fruits and cheese—which makes it an absolute must for a charcuterie board!

Ingredients for Whipped Ricotta with Honey and Herbs

To make this easy whipped ricotta recipe, you’ll need just four ingredients:

  • Fresh ricotta cheese
  • Honey
  • Fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or rosemary
  • Salt and pepper for seasoning

Equipment Needed

A food processor or a high-speed blender will give you the creamiest ricotta. However, I’ve also used an immersion blender with great success (and fewer dishes to clean).

You’ll also need the typical tools, such as a mixing bowl and a spatula, plus a pretty dish to serve it in!

whipped ricotta cheese with honey and fresh thyme in a white bowl with toasted crostini

How to Make Whipped Ricotta with Honey and Herbs

Drain the Ricotta

Removing excess moisture before the ricotta is whipped will prevent it from being runny. This recipe’s consistency should be slightly loose but spreadable.

Start by draining any excess liquid from the ricotta using some cheesecloth. Put the ricotta onto cheesecloth that’s been folded a few times, pull it into a tight ball, and allow it to drain for 30 minutes. Once the time is up, give it a good squeeze to get as much liquid out as possible.

If you’d like to do this step ahead of time, you can also let it drain in the refrigerator overnight.

Whip it, Whip it Good!

Place your drained ricotta in the food processor and whip it until the texture becomes creamy and smooth, which will take between 2-4 minutes. Set a timer for 2 minutes, then check it. If you’d prefer it to be even smoother, continue blending it in 30-second increments until it’s the perfect creamy consistency for you.

Flavoring Your Ricotta

Optional step: Now that you have a smooth and creamy ricotta, it’s time to add a little olive oil. This is entirely optional, but it will add a subtle depth of flavor. Add about a tablespoon for every cup of ricotta, then blend it for about 30 seconds to completely incorporate the olive oil.

Transfer the ricotta to a serving dish. Drizzle the honey over the top, then sprinkle it with the freshly chopped herbs and some coarsely ground black pepper. You can use any herbs you like, such as fresh thyme, rosemary, or basil. I prefer to use thyme, but all are delicious, and you can also use a combination.

whipped ricotta cheese with honey and fresh herbs in a white bowl with toasted crostini

Variations and Substitutions

Sweetener Substitutions

If honey isn’t your thing, you can easily substitute it with maple syrup or agave nectar. Hot honey is also delicious!

Substitutions for Herbs

I typically use thyme leaves in this recipe, but you can use rosemary, mint, parsley, basil, oregano, tarragon, or really any herb of your choice! Use mint or basil for a more refreshing flavor paired with fruit, and use a more earthy herb for savory combinations.

Flavor Variations

  • Swap the honey for a high-quality olive oil, then top with roasted cherry tomatoes
  • Add chopped nuts, such as walnuts, pistachios, or pecans. Take it up a notch further with candied nuts!
  • Use hot honey in place of regular for a sweet heat
  • Add lemon or orange zest for a refreshing twist
  • Top with jam or fruit compote
  • Add chopped, fresh figs or other fresh fruits
  • Add some crushed red pepper for a tiny bit of heat

Storing and Making Ahead

This recipe can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Store it in an airtight container, and add the honey and herbs just before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What can I do if my whipped ricotta is too runny? This likely means it wasn’t drained long enough. It can still be drained after it’s whipped, but make sure you remove enough water beforehand! You can also try adding a bit more drained ricotta in small increments and whip it again until the desired consistency is achieved. Fortunately, it’s rare that this happens.
  • Can I make whipped ricotta without a food processor? Yes, you can use a blender or even an immersion blender. In a pinch, you can use a whisk, but be aware that it’ll take a lot of arm power to get it to the right consistency.
  • How can I use leftover whipped ricotta? It’s great as a spread for toast, especially avocado toast with hot honey. Sweeten it a little more, and it can be used as a dip for fresh fruit. It’s also delicious with pasta!
  • Is whipped ricotta gluten-free? Yes, ricotta cheese is naturally gluten-free, though always check labels to be sure.
  • Can I freeze whipped ricotta? Freezing is not recommended as it can alter the texture significantly.
whipped ricotta cheese with honey and herbs in a brown bowl with toasted crostini

This whipped ricotta recipe with honey and herbs recipe is simple yet elegant, making it the perfect addition to a charcuterie board or allowing it to stand on its own. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have a gorgeous appetizer that’s almost too pretty to eat!

Don’t miss our other whipped cheese recipes:

whipped ricotta cheese with honey in a white bowl with toasted crostini

Whipped Ricotta Cheese with Honey and Herbs

Yield: 8-10
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 4 minutes
Additional Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 39 minutes

A smooth, creamy spread that's perfect as the centerpiece to your next charcuterie board.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups whole milk ricotta cheese
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (optional)
  • 1/2 tsp coarse salt (or to taste)
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 1/2 tsp coarse, freshly ground black pepper
  • 1-2 tsp fresh thyme leaves

Instructions

    1. Put the ricotta onto cheesecloth that’s been folded a few times, pull it into a tight ball, and allow it to drain for 30 minutes. Once the time is up, give it a good squeeze to get as much liquid out as possible. Note: If you’d like to do this step ahead of time, you can also let it drain in the refrigerator overnight.
    2. Place the drained ricotta in the food processor and blend it until the texture becomes creamy and smooth, about 2-4 minutes. Set a timer for 2 minutes, then check it. If you’d prefer it to be even smoother, continue blending it in 30-second increments until it’s the perfect creamy consistency.
    3. Optional step: Now that you have a smooth and creamy ricotta, it’s time to add a little olive oil. This is entirely optional, but it will add a subtle depth of flavor. Add about a tablespoon for every cup of ricotta, then blend it for about 30 seconds to completely incorporate the olive oil.
    4. Transfer the ricotta to a serving dish. Drizzle the honey over the top, then sprinkle it with the fresh thyme leaves and the coarsely ground black pepper.
    5. Serve immediately or store in the refrigerator for up to three days before serving.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 8 Serving Size: 1
Amount Per Serving:Calories: 154Total Fat: 11gSaturated Fat: 6gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 31mgSodium: 198mgCarbohydrates: 6gFiber: 0gSugar: 4gProtein: 7g

The nutrition information is HIGHLY estimated. For more accurate information, we suggest using an online nutrition calculator and entering the exact amounts you use for your particular board.

Did you make this recipe?

Please leave a comment on the blog or share a photo on Instagram

Kristy Bernardo
Latest posts by Kristy Bernardo (see all)

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Skip to Recipe