Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip Recipe

Introduction

This Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip is a festive, creamy appetizer that comes together in minutes with just a handful of simple ingredients. Tangy whipped feta pairs with a sweet-tart cranberry sauce, creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures that’s sure to impress your guests.

Ingredients

• For the cranberry sauce*:
• ½ cup orange juice
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 12 ounces cranberries (1 bag), fresh or frozen
• *Or substitute with 2 cups store-bought cranberry sauce
• For the whipped feta:
• 1 block (8 ounces) feta cheese
• ½ cup cream cheese (or Greek yogurt)
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• For serving (optional):
• 2 tablespoons pistachios, chopped
• 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 tablespoon honey

Instructions

1. Step 1: Make the cranberry sauce. In a medium saucepan, combine orange juice, sugar, and cranberries. Stir well and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes until most cranberries burst.
2. Step 2: Mash the berries. Stir constantly and mash the cranberries with the back of a spoon until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature, about 15-20 minutes.
3. Step 3: Prepare the whipped feta. In a food processor or blender, combine feta cheese, cream cheese, and olive oil. Process until smooth and creamy. If the texture is too thick, add 1 teaspoon of water at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
4. Step 4: Assemble the dip. Transfer the whipped feta to a serving bowl and use the back of a spoon to create a swirl pattern. Spoon the cooled cranberry sauce on top.
5. Step 5: Add optional toppings. Sprinkle chopped pistachios and crushed red pepper flakes over the dip, then drizzle with honey if desired.
6. Step 6: Serve. Enjoy with crackers, pita chips, crostini, or fresh vegetables.

Tips & Variations

• Make your own cranberry sauce for a homemade touch, or use store-bought for convenience. Adding a splash of orange juice or a pinch of cinnamon can enhance the holiday flavors.
• Try different garnishes such as pomegranate seeds, balsamic glaze, or fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for added color and flavor.
• Swap the feta cheese for goat cheese or ricotta whipped with cream cheese or Greek yogurt for a different but equally creamy flavor profile.
• Prepare the dip 15-30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together for the best taste.

Storage

Store any leftovers tightly covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Before serving again, allow the dip to sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes to soften. This rest time also helps intensify the flavors, making it even more delicious.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Is cranberry whipped feta dip hard to make?

No, it’s very simple to prepare. The dip comes together quickly using minimal ingredients and basic kitchen equipment, making it perfect even for beginner cooks.

Can I freeze cranberry whipped feta dip?

Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the cream cheese and feta might change, becoming crumbly or watery upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.

Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip Recipe

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This Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip is a festive, creamy appetizer featuring tangy whipped feta paired with a sweet-tart homemade cranberry sauce topping. Garnished with chopped pistachios, crushed red pepper flakes, and a drizzle of honey, this dip balances creamy, savory, and vibrant flavors perfectly for any holiday or party spread. It comes together quickly using simple ingredients and can be served with crackers, pita chips, crostini, or fresh vegetables.

• Author: Dana
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
• Category: Dip
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Cranberry Sauce:

• ½ cup orange juice
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 12 ounces fresh or frozen cranberries (1 bag)
• Or substitute with 2 cups store-bought cranberry sauce

For the Whipped Feta:

• 1 block (8 ounces) feta cheese
• ½ cup cream cheese or Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

For Serving (Optional):

• 2 tablespoons chopped pistachios
• 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 tablespoon honey

Instructions

1. Make the Cranberry Sauce: In a medium saucepan, combine orange juice, sugar, and cranberries. Stir well and bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Then reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until most cranberries burst.
2. Mash the Cranberries: Once most cranberries have burst, stir constantly and mash them with the back of a spoon until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency. Remove from heat.
3. Cool the Sauce: Let the cranberry sauce cool to room temperature, about 15-20 minutes, to allow flavors to meld and the mixture to thicken further.
4. Make the Whipped Feta: In a food processor or blender, combine feta cheese, cream cheese (or Greek yogurt), and olive oil. Process until smooth and creamy. If the dip is too thick, add 1 teaspoon of water at a time until you reach the desired consistency.
5. Assemble the Dip: Transfer the whipped feta to a serving bowl. Use the back of a spoon to create a swirl pattern on the surface. Spoon the cooled cranberry sauce over the whipped feta dip, spreading it evenly on top.
6. Add Toppings: Sprinkle chopped pistachios and crushed red pepper flakes over the cranberry sauce. Drizzle with honey for added sweetness if desired.
7. Serve: Serve the dip with your choice of crackers, pita chips, crostini, or fresh vegetable sticks. Enjoy immediately or let it rest for 15-30 minutes for flavors to meld further.

Notes

• If you have leftovers, cover the dip tightly with plastic wrap or place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
• Before serving leftover dip, let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes to soften for easier scooping and spreading.
• Store-bought cranberry sauce can be used to save time; choose whole-berry for texture or smooth for a cleaner spread.
• Prepare the dip about 15-30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld fully.
• Try variations by swapping cream cheese with Greek yogurt or using other soft cheeses like goat cheese or ricotta for different flavor profiles.
• Serve with a variety of dippers like toasted baguette slices, sturdy crackers, fresh veggies, or even sweet options like sliced apples or pears.

Keywords: cranberry whipped feta dip, festive holiday dip, creamy feta dip, cranberry sauce dip, appetizer recipe, party dip, easy festive appetizer