Hot Honey Ricotta Bruschetta

This Hot Honey Ricotta Bruschetta is a standout appetizer that perfectly marries creamy, sweet, and spicy flavors. Featuring golden-toasted baguette slices topped with a luxurious whipped ricotta mixture and finished with a drizzle of infused honey and punchy chili crunch, it is the ultimate starter for parties or a special snack.

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The secret to this crave-worthy dish lies in the whipped cheese base, which combines whole-milk ricotta with a hint of cream cheese and fresh lemon zest for a bright, airy finish.

Ingredients

• 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup (250 g) whole-milk ricotta
• 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) honey
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce (e.g., Sriracha)
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 2 tablespoons chili crunch or chili crisp (store-bought or homemade)
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Toast the Bread

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet and brush both sides lightly with olive oil. Toast for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crisp. Remove and let cool slightly.

Step 2: Whip the Ricotta

In a food processor or bowl, combine ricotta, cream cheese, lemon zest, sea salt, and black pepper. Blend or whip for 1–2 minutes until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Prepare Hot Honey

In a small saucepan over low heat, stir together the honey, hot sauce, and red pepper flakes. Warm for 1–2 minutes, just until fragrant and runny, then remove from heat.

Step 4: Assemble

Spread a generous layer of whipped ricotta on each toasted baguette slice. Drizzle with the warm hot honey and top with a small spoonful of chili crunch.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Add fresh basil leaves if desired and serve immediately to maintain the crunch.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For extra flavor, you can rub the warm baguette slices with a cut clove of garlic before applying the ricotta. This adds a subtle, savory aroma that complements the sweet heat of the honey.

Varianten und Anpassungen

If you prefer a tangier twist, substitute the ricotta with goat cheese. You can also try using orange zest instead of lemon for a different citrus note that pairs beautifully with the red pepper flakes.

Serviervorschläge

This bruschetta is best enjoyed with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, or a sparkling Prosecco to cut through the richness of the whole-milk ricotta.

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Whether you're serving this as a standout starter or a simple weeknight treat, this Hot Honey Ricotta Bruschetta brings a sophisticated Italian-American flair to any table. Enjoy the perfect balance of heat, sweetness, and crunch in every bite.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Toast the baguette slices and whip the ricotta up to a day in advance. Store components separately and assemble just before serving to maintain the crisp texture of the bread.

→ What can I use instead of chili crunch?

Substitute with crushed red pepper flakes mixed with a little oil, crispy fried shallots, or even everything bagel seasoning for a different texture and flavor profile.

→ How spicy is the hot honey?

The heat level is adjustable—start with less hot sauce and red pepper flakes for a mild warmth, or increase for those who enjoy more intense spice in their sweet and savory combinations.

→ Can I use a different cheese?

Goat cheese creates a tangier version, while mascarpone makes it extra rich. For a dairy-free option, try whipped cashew cheese or almond-based ricotta alternatives.

→ What wine pairs best?

A crisp Sauvignon Blanc cuts through the creaminess while complementing the honey sweetness. Sparkling Prosecco or a dry rosé also balance the sweet and spicy elements beautifully.

→ How do I store leftovers?

These are best enjoyed fresh. Store leftover ricotta and honey separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Re-toast bread slices before assembling leftovers.