Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip
The Best Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip is a show-stopping holiday appetizer bursting with festive flavors. Its creamy, tangy whipped feta pairs beautifully with sweet and tart cranberry compote, making it an irresistible centerpiece for your holiday table.
This quick and easy recipe combines simple ingredients to create a luxurious dish ready in just 20 minutes. Perfect for entertaining, this dip adds a splash of color and flavor to any gathering, delighting your guests with every bite.
Star Ingredients for the Perfect Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip
- Fresh or frozen cranberries – The vibrant star of the compote, providing tartness and holiday flair.
- Orange zest and juice – A citrusy touch that enhances the cranberries’ natural sweetness.
- Maple syrup – Adds a warm sweetness to balance the tart cranberries.
- Feta cheese – The creamy, tangy base of the dip that pairs perfectly with the cranberries.
- Plain Greek yogurt – Smooth and creamy, it lightens the feta for a whipped texture.
- Chili flakes – A subtle heat that adds complexity without overpowering.
- Olive oil – Helps achieve the velvety texture of the whipped feta.
- Pistachios – A crunchy, nutty garnish that complements the dip’s creaminess.
- Honey – Drizzled on top for a final touch of sweetness.
- Fresh thyme – Optional, but adds a herbal note for extra sophistication.
How to Make This Holiday Dip Magic
- Create the cranberry compote: Simmer cranberries, orange zest and juice, maple syrup, and nutmeg until thick and jammy. Let it cool completely.
- Whip the feta: Blend feta, Greek yogurt, chili flakes, and olive oil until silky smooth.
- Assemble the dish: Spread whipped feta in a serving dish, layer the cranberry compote on top, and garnish with pistachios, honey, and thyme.
Tips for a Show-Stopping Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip
For optimal flavor, prepare the components a day or two ahead and let them sit at room temperature before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. If feta’s tang is too sharp for your preference, substitute ricotta cheese for a milder, creamier base. Pair the dip with crostini, crackers, or fresh veggies for versatility.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers Like a Pro
To store leftovers, place the cranberry compote and whipped feta in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days. Allow both to reach room temperature before serving to maintain their creamy and smooth textures. Avoid freezing, as it may alter the dip’s consistency.
Enjoy this stunning Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip as the ultimate crowd-pleaser for your holiday celebrations!
Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip Recipe
Ingredients
For the cranberries:
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
- Zest and juice of one orange
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
For the whipped feta:
- 225 g 8 oz feta cheese, crumbled (approximately 1 1/2 cups)
- 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
Garnishes:
- 1 –2 tablespoons honey for drizzling
- 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
- Fresh thyme leaves optional
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, maple syrup, orange zest, orange juice, and nutmeg. Heat over medium-high until boiling. Lower the heat to medium-low and simmer for 6–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens into a jam-like consistency. Remove from heat and allow to cool.
- In a food processor, blend the feta cheese, Greek yogurt, chili flakes, and olive oil on high speed until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. Alternatively, an immersion blender can be used for this step.
- To assemble, spread the whipped feta in a shallow serving dish. Layer the cooled cranberry compote over the feta. Sprinkle with chopped pistachios, drizzle with honey, and garnish with fresh thyme if desired.
Notes
- Crostini Preparation: Preheat the oven to 400°F. Slice a baguette into 1-inch thick pieces using a bread knife. Brush one side of each slice with olive oil, then arrange in a single layer on a baking sheet. Toast for 5 minutes, flip, and bake an additional 5 minutes until golden and crisp.
- The cranberry mixture and whipped feta can be made up to two days in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Allow to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before assembling.
- Ricotta cheese can be used as a substitute for feta, resulting in a creamy and equally delicious whipped ricotta dip.