Mascarpone Cheese Dip Recipe

Published August, 2021 - Updated March 2025

This incredibly easy, creamy, and luxurious mascarpone cheese dip that takes just 5 minutes to make is showcasing the diversity of marscarpone cheese. Traditionally used in desserts but it's versatility allows for more, savory included.

Cheese Dip Recipe

It's the perfect quick dip that will impress anyone. Whether you're entertaining guests or enjoying a simple treat, this mascarpone dip will have everyone asking for more. Give it a try—you'll love it, and so will everyone around you!

Serve this mascarpone dip with ciabatta, crusty bread rolls or with an assortment of freshly cut veggies and crackers.

For the topping, we love drizzling extra virgin olive oil and adding a pinch of salt, spices, fresh parsley and spring onion.

The toppings certainly do take take the dip bland to tasty and delicious!

Where to buy mascarpone cheese? You should find it in your local supermarkets in the cream cheese section along with other Italian soft cheeses like mozzarella cheese, ricotta and bocconcini.

When making this cheese dip recipe, take the cheese out of the fridge 15-20 minutes before. This particular mascarpone is quite hard and if you press into it too much and over-mix, it will curdle. The additiona of sour cream helps make it smooth with less mixing.

Mascarpone Cheese Recipe

You can also find different types of mascarpone, for example, some artisanal or high-quality versions can be lighter, fluffier, and have a slightly different mouthfeel. As in this image below - a very different mascarpone experience!

No matter which mascarpone cheese you use, this dip is a great addition to either your fruit platter because you can also make it sweet (see faq's below).

Simply drizzle with extra virgin olive oil, lemon zest, a small pinch of sea salt, a touch of red pepper flakes and crusty Italian bread.

Below are some of the recipe process shots from the first time that I started testing this mascarpone cheese dip recipe. I never added lemon and it still doesn't have lemon in the recipe card, but it remains in the optional ingredients. Because again, it will depend on which mascarpone you are using, what recipe you are making and your taste buds!

Adding lemon could potentially make the dip a bit too tangy or overpower the delicate creaminess of the mascarpone, especially since I was thinning it out with milk which, is an option.

If you are using the tub supermarket mascarpone cheese, then you'll probably need to follow the recipe in the recipe card to get similar results.

Why You Will Love This Mascarpone Cheese Dip

• Quick and Easy This dip is as easy as it gets. With just two simple ingredients—mascarpone cheese and sour cream—you can whip up a creamy, irresistible dip in no time. There's no need to turn on the stove or use any electric appliances. Perfect for when you need something quick and indulgent.

• Versatile Mascarpone cheese is a staple in both sweet and savory dishes. This dip is incredibly versatile; it pairs perfectly with fruits, crackers, and even serves as a topping for cakes and waffles. The best part? You can customize it to suit your taste.

• Effortless Serving Whether you’re serving it with fresh fruit, vegetables, or as a topping for baked goods, this mascarpone cheese dip is easy to serve and always a hit. It's perfect for those last-minute appetizers or quick snacks.

• Perfect for Any Occasion From casual get-togethers to elegant parties, this mascarpone cheese dip is a crowd-pleaser. It’s simple, elegant, and works well with a variety of accompaniments, making it a go-to dip for any occasion.

What Is Mascarpone Cheese?

Mascarpone is a soft Italian cream cheese made from fresh cow’s milk. It has a high fat content—around 60-75%—which gives it its signature silky, creamy texture. Originally from the Lombardy region of Italy, mascarpone has a delicate, slightly sweet taste, making it a popular ingredient in both desserts (like Tiramisu) and savory dishes.

The Difference Between Mascarpone and Ricotta Cheese

Mascarpone and ricotta are both Italian cheeses, but they differ in texture, taste, and fat content. While ricotta is made from whey and has a light, grainy texture with a slightly tangy taste, mascarpone is made from cream, giving it a smooth, rich, and creamy consistency with a much higher fat content. Mascarpone is perfect for both sweet and savory dishes, whereas ricotta is often used in savory Italian recipes.

Lemon zest is not in the pic, but it's in the recipe! This is store-bought tub mascarpone.

Ingredients for Mascarpone Cheese Dip

• Mascarpone Cheese: The star ingredient! You’ll find it in the cream cheese section of most supermarkets. Look for a high-quality brand for the best texture.
• Sour Cream: Adds a tangy balance to the richness of the mascarpone, giving the dip its creamy texture.
• Milk: To thin the dip if you prefer a softer, spreadable consistency.
• Salt: Essential for bringing out the flavors and balancing the richness of the mascarpone and sour cream.
• Spice: Flavor enhancement
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: A drizzle for a smooth, rich finish.

Variations (Optional):

• Cream: Instead of milk
• Black Pepper: To taste, for an added touch of warmth and flavor.
• Mustard: A little mustard adds a tangy, bold twist for those who enjoy extra depth of flavor.
• Spices or Fresh Herbs: Add a pinch of your favorite spices (like garlic powder, smoked paprika) or fresh herbs (such as chives, basil, or thyme) for extra flavor and flair.

Pro Tip!

Don't overmix the mascarpone cheese because it may curdle and use room temperature mascarpone.

How to Make Mascarpone Cheese Dip

Mix the Mascarpone and Sour Cream - In a medium bowl, combine the mascarpone cheese and sour cream. Use a whisk or spatula to blend them together until smooth and creamy.

Adjust Consistency - If you prefer a thinner dip, add a small dash of cream or milk and stir until the desired texture is achieved. For a thicker, spreadable dip, skip the liquid.

Finishing - Spread the dip out with the spatular or the back of a spoon. Drizzle extra-virgin olive oil, sprinkle with smoked paprika, red pepper flakes (optional) and a pinch of salt.

Feel free to add the salt into the mixture before spreading, it's a personal preference and they both work.

Finish off with fresh spring onions and chopped flat leaf parsley.

Serve - Serve immediately as a dip with fruit, veggies and crackers. Enjoy!

How to Serve Mascarpone Cheese Dip

This dip is wonderfully versatile. You can serve it in the center of a platter with fresh fruit and vegetables, or pair it with crackers for a more savory experience. For a less thick dip, simply add a little milk or water.

Mascarpone is adaptable to different flavors, and works as an appetizer, topping, or spread. Whether you're dipping crackers, vegetables, or pairing it with meats, this dip adds a luxurious touch to any meal.

Storing Mascarpone Cheese Dip

While mascarpone cheese dip is best enjoyed fresh, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 1-2 days. Just keep in mind that the texture may change slightly after refrigeration, so give it a quick stir before serving again.

Mascarpone Cheese Dip Variations

1. Sweetened Version: Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract to create a sweet dip, perfect for fruits or pastries.
2. Citrus Twist : Add lemon or orange zest, or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a refreshing tang.
3. Herb-infused: For a savory twist, try adding finely chopped herbs like chives, basil, or rosemary.
4. Chocolate Mascarpone: Stir in cocoa powder or melted dark chocolate for a rich, dessert-worthy dip.

FAQs

What’s the Best Way to Serve Mascarpone Cheese Dip?
Serve it with fresh fruit, crackers, or as a topping for pancakes, waffles, or baked goods. You can also drizzle it with olive oil or top it with fresh herbs for added flavor.

Can I Store Leftover Mascarpone Dip?
Yes, you can store leftovers in the fridge for up to 1-2 days. The texture might change slightly, so give it a stir before serving again.

Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
This dip is best served fresh, but you can prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge until you're ready to serve. Just be aware that the texture may change slightly after refrigeration.

Can I Make It Sweeter?
Yes! Simply add powdered sugar or honey for a sweeter version. You can also add vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste (mad prices!) for extra flavor.

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