Simple Whipped Ricotta Dip with Balsamic and Cranberries Recipe

Introduction

This Simple Whipped Ricotta Dip with Balsamic and Cranberries is a fresh and creamy appetizer that blends sweet, tangy, and herbal flavors beautifully. Perfect for entertaining or a cozy snack, it pairs wonderfully with toasted sourdough baguette slices.

Ingredients

• 1 container (16 oz) whole milk ricotta cheese
• 3 oz cream cheese
• 2 tbsp honey
• Juice from half a small lemon
• 1 tsp salt
• 2/3 cup chopped dried cranberries
• 2 tbsp finely minced fresh rosemary
• Generous drizzle balsamic glaze
• Cracked black pepper, to taste
• Flaky sea salt, to taste
• Sourdough baguette, sliced and toasted

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a blender or large food processor, combine the ricotta cheese, cream cheese, honey, lemon juice, and salt. Blend on high for about one minute until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Scrape down the sides once or twice for even blending, then taste and adjust salt if needed.
2. Step 2: Transfer the whipped ricotta mixture to a bowl, cover, and refrigerate to chill and let the flavors meld.
3. Step 3: While the dip chills, finely chop the dried cranberries and mince the fresh rosemary to prepare the toppings.
4. Step 4: Spread the chilled ricotta dip in a shallow serving bowl, creating gentle swirls with the back of a spoon. Drizzle generously with balsamic glaze, then evenly scatter the cranberries and rosemary on top. Finish with cracked black pepper and flaky sea salt to taste.
5. Step 5: Serve immediately with toasted sourdough baguette slices arranged alongside for dipping.

Tips & Variations

• Use a hand mixer if you don’t have a blender or food processor, but blend longer for smoothness.
• Try substituting dried cherries or golden raisins for a different fruity twist.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle spicy kick.
• Fresh herbs like thyme or sage can be used instead of rosemary for new flavor profiles.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Before serving again, give the dip a quick stir and add fresh toppings if desired. It’s best served chilled but can be brought to room temperature for about 15 minutes to soften slightly.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes, preparing the whipped ricotta base a few hours ahead allows the flavors to meld nicely. Just keep it refrigerated until ready to assemble with toppings.

What can I substitute for balsamic glaze?

If you don’t have balsamic glaze, you can use good quality balsamic vinegar drizzled sparingly or a sweet honey drizzle to complement the dip’s flavors.

Simple Whipped Ricotta Dip with Balsamic and Cranberries Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.5 from 120 reviews

This simple whipped ricotta dip combines creamy ricotta and cream cheese blended smoothly with honey, lemon juice, and salt. Topped with sweet chopped dried cranberries, fresh rosemary, and a generous drizzle of balsamic glaze, this flavorful dip is perfect for entertaining. Serve it with toasted sourdough baguette slices for an elegant and easy appetizer.

• Author: Caleb
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Blending
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Whipped Ricotta Base

• 1 container (16 oz) whole milk ricotta cheese
• 3 oz cream cheese
• 2 tbsp honey
• Juice from half a small lemon
• 1 tsp salt

Toppings

• 2/3 cup chopped dried cranberries
• 2 tbsp finely minced fresh rosemary
• Generous drizzle of balsamic glaze
• Cracked black pepper, to taste
• Flaky sea salt, to taste

For Serving

• Sourdough baguette, sliced and toasted

Instructions

1. Make the Whipped Ricotta Base: In a blender or food processor, combine the whole milk ricotta cheese, cream cheese, honey, lemon juice, and salt. Blend on high for about one minute until smooth and creamy, scraping the sides once or twice to ensure even mixing. Taste and adjust salt if needed.
2. Chill the Whipped Ricotta: Transfer the whipped ricotta mixture into a bowl, cover, and refrigerate to chill and let the flavors meld while you prepare the toppings.
3. Prepare the Toppings: Finely chop the dried cranberries and mince the fresh rosemary to ensure a balanced sweet and herbal flavor throughout the dip.
4. Assemble the Whipped Ricotta Dip: Spread the chilled ricotta mixture into a shallow serving bowl, creating gentle swirls with a spoon. Drizzle balsamic glaze generously over the top. Evenly scatter the chopped cranberries and minced rosemary. Finish with cracked black pepper and flaky sea salt, adding an extra pinch of rosemary for garnish if desired.
5. Serve with Toasted Sourdough Baguette: Arrange toasted sourdough baguette slices alongside the dip and serve immediately for the freshest, creamiest experience.

Notes

• For best texture, use whole milk ricotta and full-fat cream cheese.
• You can swap dried cranberries for other dried fruits like cherries or blueberries for variation.
• Adding a touch of lemon juice brightens the flavor and balances the sweetness.
• Serve immediately after assembling to enjoy optimal creaminess and fresh flavors.
• The dip can be made a few hours in advance and kept chilled, but add toppings just before serving.

Keywords: whipped ricotta dip, ricotta cheese dip, balsamic glaze dip, cranberry dip, rosemary dip, easy appetizer, creamy dip, party dip, cheese dip