Creamy Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip
This creamy cranberry whipped feta dip is a festive, tangy-sweet appetizer that comes together in just 10 minutes. With a vibrant cranberry swirl and a luscious whipped feta base, it’s perfect for holiday gatherings or any occasion that calls for a show-stopping snack.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 8 oz feta cheese, crumbled (block preferred)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp Greek yogurt (plain, whole milk or low-fat)
- 2 tbsp honey (or maple syrup/agave)
- 1 tsp lemon zest (fresh)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 2 tbsp honey or sugar (adjust to taste)
- 2 tbsp orange juice
- 2 tbsp water
- Pinch of salt
- 2 tbsp chopped pistachios or walnuts (optional, for topping)
- Fresh mint leaves (optional, for garnish)
- Extra drizzle of honey (optional)
- Cracked black pepper or sumac (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Combine cranberries, honey or sugar, orange juice, and water in a small saucepan over medium heat.
- Bring to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, until cranberries start to pop and mixture thickens (about 5 minutes). Add a pinch of salt. Set aside to cool slightly.
- In a food processor, combine crumbled feta, cream cheese, Greek yogurt, honey, lemon zest, and black pepper.
- Blend until very smooth and creamy, about 1-2 minutes. Scrape down the sides as needed.
- Transfer whipped feta to a wide serving bowl and smooth out with a spatula.
- Spoon cranberry sauce over the top in dollops. Swirl gently with a toothpick or knife for a marbled effect.
- Sprinkle with chopped pistachios or walnuts, fresh mint leaves, and a drizzle of honey if desired. Optionally, add cracked black pepper or sumac.
- Serve immediately with crackers, pita chips, crostini, or fresh veggies.
Notes
For best results, use block feta and room temperature cream cheese. Taste and adjust honey and lemon to your preference. Make ahead by preparing the whipped feta and cranberry sauce separately, then swirl together before serving. The dip is naturally gluten-free; serve with gluten-free dippers if needed. For a vegan version, use plant-based dairy alternatives and maple syrup or agave.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons (about
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 4
- Sodium: 200
- Fat: 5
- Saturated Fat: 3
- Carbohydrates: 5
- Protein: 3
Keywords: cranberry whipped feta dip, holiday appetizer, creamy feta dip, easy party dip, vegetarian appetizer, cranberry dip, whipped feta, festive dip, Thanksgiving appetizer, Christmas dip