Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip Recipe
This Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip is a vibrant and creamy appetizer combining tangy whipped feta cheese with a sweet and tart cranberry-orange sauce. Enhanced with hints of thyme, garlic, and a touch of heat from red pepper flakes, it’s garnished with toasted pistachios for crunch and served perfectly with crackers or crostini. Ideal for festive occasions or any appetizer spread.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6-8 as an appetizer 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Cranberry Sauce
- 1/3 cup fresh orange juice
- 1 tsp finely grated orange zest
- 2 Tbsp honey, divided
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 sprig thyme
Whipped Feta Dip
- 6 oz feta in brine, cut into small cubes
- 1 clove garlic, grated or minced
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
- 2 tsp chopped thyme leaves
- 6 oz cream cheese, room temperature
- 2 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 Tbsp toasted chopped pistachios
To Serve
- Crackers or crostini
Instructions
- Cook Cranberry Sauce: In a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk together orange juice and 1 tablespoon honey until combined, then bring to a boil. Add cranberries and the thyme sprig and return to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook, stirring occasionally, until cranberries burst and form a saucy consistency, about 7 to 8 minutes. Remove the thyme sprig and stir in the orange zest. Set aside to cool.
- Prepare Whipped Feta: While the cranberry sauce cools, drain the brine from the feta. In a food processor, pulse the feta, garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, and chopped thyme leaves until the feta is broken into small crumbs. Add the cream cheese and pulse again until combined. With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil and continue blending until the mixture is smooth and fluffy.
- Assemble the Dip: Transfer the whipped feta mixture to a serving bowl. Spoon the cooled cranberry sauce over the top. Sprinkle with toasted chopped pistachios and drizzle with the remaining 1 tablespoon of honey. Serve immediately with crackers or crostini on the side.
- Make Ahead: This dip can be prepared up to 4 days in advance. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Notes
- The dip can be made up to 4 days ahead and refrigerated in an airtight container.
- Use fresh or frozen cranberries according to availability.
- Adjust the crushed red pepper flakes to your preferred heat level.
- For a nut-free version, omit the pistachios or substitute with seeds.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature for best flavor.
Keywords: whipped feta dip, cranberry dip, holiday appetizer, feta cheese dip, cranberry sauce, party dip
