How to Make Whipped Ricotta (+ Other Whipped Cheese)

5 from 4 votes
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Make 5-minute whipped Ricotta dip (and use the same method for whipped feta dip, cottage cheese, and goat cheese!). A simple, creamy, 5 ingredient cheesy dip or spread perfect for the next game day, Potluck, or gathering!

Whipped cheese topped with chili honey and thyme

No matter what the time of year, there’s never a wrong time to enjoy a simple dip (or spread) like baba ganoush, beet hummus, and this whipped ricotta dip. Best of all, this method works amazingly to create whipped feta, whipped ricotta, and whipped goat cheese, based on what you have available! 

I recently shared a recipe for whipped labneh topped with roasted tomatoes and it set me down a path of enlightenment – who knew whipped cheese could be so delicious?!

The slightly granular texture of most of the cheeses is transformed into something that becomes super light, airy, and decadently creamy! It’s perfect for serving up alongside crudites, crackers, and bread, or spread over burgers, sandwiches, and wraps!

Whipped cheese topped with chili honey and thyme

Best of all, no matter which cheese you use, this dip is ready in under 10 minutes and requires just 5 base ingredients with literally dozens of options for toppings. Whether you want something simple and savory or something on the sweeter side, there’s an option for you below. 

You can even make multiple options at once – just think whipped goat cheese with fig, honey, and walnut topping. Or how about whipped feta dip with roasted tomatoes and garlic-infused oil. Wait, what about whipped ricotta topped with macerated strawberries with vanilla, blueberries, and a drizzle of honey. See, the options are endless!

Want more simple dip inspiration? How about a spicy roasted eggplant dip (Baigan choka), red pepper muhammara, or spinach yogurt Borani?

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The Ingredients

Whipped cheese ingredients
  • Cheese: there are several types of cheese you can use for this whipped cheese method: ricotta, feta, goat cheese, or cottage cheese. I recommend using whole cheese for whipped cheese that is super light and creamy. You could also make your own (linked above).
  • Cream cheese: use neutral-flavored cream cheese (or homemade cream cheese). Using a thick Greek yogurt also works well with whipped feta dip. 
  • Lemon: use fresh lemon juice for the best results. You could add some lemon zest, too, for more flavor. This tastes as delicious with whipped ricotta as it does with all the cheese options. 
  • Salt & Pepper: season to personal preference.
  • Toppings: I used a combination of homemade chili honey (honey ricotta is a truly delish match) and lemon thyme. Alternatively, combine the honey with fresh parsley, basil, rosemary, or mint (or a combination of two) and a drizzle of olive oil. 

Optional Add-ins & Variations

I like to keep the basic whipped cheese the same no matter which cheese I use and then swap out the toppings based on the cheese and what I have available. 

  • Garlic: you can use fresh garlic or garlic powder
  • Other herbs: depending on which cheese you’re using, you can experiment with different herbs added into the whipped cheese or as a topping: oregano, chives, dill, thyme, sage, etc. Whipped feta dip works particularly well when blending dried herbs directly into the dip. 
  • Olive oil: avocado oil could also work. 
  • For spice: add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
  • Pesto: a creamy soft cheese and pesto are a match made in heaven. I recommend an authentic Italian basil pesto for super delicious results!
  • Tomatoes: tomatoes pair well with all of the cheeses. You can add sun-dried tomatoes directly into the whipped cheese dip. Roasted tomatoes or confit tomatoes with extra olive oil also make for a delicious topping. 
  • Fresh fruit: fid I mention that whipped ricotta dip can also be enjoyed as a delicious dessert dip too. Top with some macerated strawberries and blueberries with vanilla and optionally a drizzle of honey or maple. 
  • Grilled fruit: particularly grilled peaches, blood orange, and watermelon (with whipped feta – yummy!) pieces work very well with any of the whipped cheese dips, especially when drizzled with honey or maple and some mint or basil.
  • Crushed nuts: walnuts, for example, work well with whipped goat cheese and whipped ricotta. Pistachios also work well or pecans. 
  • Roasted veg: swap out which veggies and seasonings you use based on what’s in season: carrots, sprouts, beets, squash, etc. 
  • Balsamic: vinegar/glaze – will pair well with the grilled fruits and roasted veggies.

How to Make Whipped Ricotta (+ Other Whipped Cheese Dips)

Add all of the ingredients (apart from the toppings) to a food processor. Alternatively, you can use a stand mixer or hand mixer – with a whisk attachment or regular beater. 

Steps for making whipped cheese

Process until it’s creamy and smooth – the time will vary based on your particular machine. However, 1-2 minutes is usually more than enough.

When ready, give the whipped ricotta (or other cheese) a taste and adjust any of the seasonings to taste.

A spoonful of whipped cheese

Transfer the whipped ricotta to a serving bowl and top with a drizzle of chili honey and lemon thyme or the topping of your choice.

Whipped cheese topped with chili honey

How to Make Ahead and Store

Make ahead: you can prepare the whipped ricotta up to two days in advance. Add the toppings of your choice just before serving. 

Fridge: store any leftover dip in an airtight container for 2-3 days. Just note that the toppings used may affect the shelf life (for example, fresh herbs are best enjoyed within a day). 

If it begins to separate slightly, just drain off the excess liquid and stir well before re-serving. It will also firm up somewhat when chilled.

Freeze: you may be able to store the whipped ricotta (and other cheeses) in the freezer for up to 2 months. However, it isn’t something I’ve tried, so I can’t guarantee there will be no textural changes. Also, the dip may dry out a little in the freezer. I recommend thawing it and adding it back to a food processor, adding a little cream if needed.

A bowl of whipped cheese topped with honey and thyme

How to Serve Whipped Cheese Dip

As versatile as the flavoring and topping options are for the whipped cheese dips, the ways you can enjoy them are just as plentiful. 

  • Chips: stick to the classic with chips (or crackers) and dips. I recommend beet tortilla chips – the beets pair wonderfully with all the whipped cheese dips. You could also use crackers or seed crackers.
  • Crudites: serve the whipped goat cheese/ricotta/ feta with your favorite veggies or choice – asparagus spears, cucumber, carrot, bell peppers, etc. 
  • Bread: bread and cheese are a match made in heaven – pair it with slices of grilled/broiled baguette (like crostini or bruschetta), baked pita chips, naan, etc. Use gluten-free bread if needed. 
  • Fruit slices: sliced apple, pear, and figs work particularly well with whipped ricotta and whipped goat cheese. 
  • Over toast: spread the whipped ricotta liberally over toast and top with sauteed mushrooms, roasted tomatoes, tomato confit, tomato bruschetta, etc. 
  • Burgers: spread over the burger of your choice, like this mushroom burger, black bean burger, or falafel burger. Whipped feta dip will go well with Greek/Mediterranean style meatballs/kebabs/burgers, too. 
  • Soups: add a dollop to cold gazpacho or hot soups like tomato soup, cream of mushroom, or leek and potato soup.

I also love serving whipped cheese dip as part of a brunch spread alongside homemade bagels, simit, fresh fruit, yogurt (dairy or non-dairy), huevos rancheros, etc. Of course, I wouldn’t pass up a bloody mary either (virgin or boozy)…

Leftovers are great for using as a creamy pasta sauce. So why not serve it up with homemade pasta like whipped goat cheese beet noodles, whipped feta spinach pasta, or whipped ricotta with roasted tomatoes and vegan pasta

Pouring chili honey over whipped cheese

Recipe Notes & Variations

  • Use high-quality whole-milk cheese: this is the bulk of the dip, so make sure to use high-quality, whole cheese for the tastiest results. ‘Light’ cheese doesn’t whip as well and won’t be nearly as fluffy. However, it will still taste lovely. 
  • Make sure the cheese is cold: I recommend only removing it from the refrigerator just before whipping. That way, more air will be incorporated into the cheese dip for fluffier results. 
  • Experiment with toppings and add-ins: based on which cheese you use, what’s in season, and what you’re in the mood for. This whipped ricotta recipe/method is super versatile!

More Delicious Appetiser Recipes

If you try this whipped ricotta recipe (and other whipped cheese dips) , I’d love to hear your thoughts/questions below. Also, I’d appreciate a recipe card rating below, and feel free to tag me in your recipe recreations on Instagram @Alphafoodie!

How to Make Whipped Ricotta (+ Other Whipped Cheese)

5 from 4 votes
By: Samira
Make 5-minute whipped Ricotta dip (and use the same method for whipped feta dip, cottage cheese, and goat cheese!); a simple, creamy, 5 ingredient cheesy dip or spread perfect for the next game day, Potluck, or gathering!
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 10 Tbsp (~2/3 cup)

Ingredients 
 

  • 5.3 oz cheese Ricotta, goat cheese, or feta
  • 1.8 oz cream cheese
  • 1/2 lemon, juiced 1.5 Tbsp
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp pepper

Toppings (optional)

  • 1 Tbsp Chili garlic honey
  • handful lemon thyme

Instructions 

  • Add all of the ingredients (apart from the toppings) to a food processor. Alternatively, you can use a stand mixer or hand mixer – with a whisk attachment or regular beater.
  • Process until it’s creamy and smooth – the time will vary based on your particular machine. However, 1-2 minutes is usually more than enough.
  • When ready, give the whipped cheese a taste and adjust any of the seasonings to taste.
  • Transfer the whipped cheese to a serving bowl and top with a drizzle of chili honey and lemon thyme or the topping of your choice.

How to Make Ahead and Store

  • Make ahead: you can prepare the whipped cheese up to two days in advance. Add the toppings of your choice just before serving.
    Fridge: Store any leftover dip in an airtight container for 2-3 days. Just note that the toppings used may affect the shelf life (for example, fresh herbs are best enjoyed within a day).
    If it begins to separate slightly, just drain off the excess liquid and stir well before re-serving. It will also firm up somewhat when chilled.
    Freeze: you may be able to store the whipped cheese in the freezer for up to 2 months. However, it isn’t something I’ve tried, so I can’t guarantee there will be no textural changes. Also, the dip may dry out a little in the freezer. I recommend thawing it and adding it back to a food processor, adding a little cream if needed.

Notes

Recipe Notes & Variations
  • Use high-quality whole-milk cheese: this is the bulk of the dip, so make sure to use high-quality, whole cheese for the tastiest results. ‘Light’ cheese doesn’t whip as well and won’t be nearly as fluffy; however, it will still taste lovely. 
  • Make sure the cheese is cold: I recommend only removing it from the refrigerator just before whipping. That way, more air will be incorporated into the cheese dip for fluffier results.
  • Experiment with toppings and add-ins: Based on which cheese you use, what’s in season, and what you’re in the mood for. This whipped ricotta recipe/method is super versatile!

Optional Add-ins & Variations: 
I like to keep the basic whipped cheese the same no matter which cheese I use and then swap out the toppings based on the cheese and what I have available. 
  • Garlic: You can use fresh garlic or garlic powder. 
  • Other herbs: Depending on which cheese you’re using, you can experiment with different herbs added into the whipped cheese or as a topping; oregano, chives, dill, thyme, sage, etc. Whipped feta dip works particularly well when blending dried herbs directly into the dip. 
  • Olive oil: avocado oil could also work. 
  • For spice: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes 
  • Pesto: A creamy soft cheese and pesto are a match made in heaven. I recommend an authentic Italian basil pesto for super delicious results!
  • Tomatoes: Tomatoes pair well with all of the cheeses; You can add sun-dried tomatoes directly into the whipped cheese dip. Roasted tomatoes or confit tomatoes with extra olive oil also make for a delicious topping. 
  • Fresh fruit: Did I mention that whipped ricotta dip can also be enjoyed as a delicious dessert dip too? Top with some macerated strawberries and blueberries with vanilla and optionally a drizzle of honey or maple. 
  • Grilled fruit: Particularly grilled peaches, blood orange, and watermelon (with whipped feta – yummy!) pieces work very well with any of the whipped cheese dips, especially when drizzled with honey or maple and some mint or basil.
  • Crushed nuts: Walnuts, for example, work well with whipped goat cheese and whipped ricotta. Pistachios also work well or pecans. 
  • Roasted veg: Swap out which veggies and seasonings you use based on what’s in season; carrots, sprouts, beets, squash, etc. 
  • Balsamic: vinegar/glaze – will pair well with the grilled fruits and roasted veggies.

Read the blog post for serving suggestions and other helpful info!
Course: Appetizer, Party Food, Snack
Cuisine: American
Freezer friendly: 2 Months
Shelf life: 3-4 Days

Nutrition

Serving: 1Tbsp, Calories: 58kcal, Carbohydrates: 1g, Protein: 3g, Fat: 5g, Saturated Fat: 3g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g, Monounsaturated Fat: 1g, Cholesterol: 13mg, Sodium: 130mg, Potassium: 13mg, Fiber: 1g, Sugar: 1g, Vitamin A: 224IU, Vitamin C: 1mg, Calcium: 26mg, Iron: 1mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

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