Dessert

The Best Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip (Holiday Recipe!) Recipe

ByRafael Mansero December 8, 2025December 8, 2025

Introduction

This Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip is a festive and flavorful addition to any holiday spread. Combining creamy whipped feta with a sweet and tangy cranberry compote, it offers a perfect balance of savory and bright flavors that guests will love.

A bowl with three layers: the bottom layer is smooth white cream filling the bowl, the middle layer is a thick, dark red fruit jam spread evenly on top, and the top layer is scattered with chopped green and brown nuts. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface with slices of light-colored toasted bread around it. Next to the bowl is a small white bowl with more chopped nuts on a wooden coaster, and a black and white striped cloth is draped to the right side. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups frozen or fresh cranberries
1/4 cup maple syrup
Zest and juice of one orange
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
225 g (8 oz) block of feta cheese in brine, drained
1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
1/4 tsp chili flakes
2 tbsp olive oil
1/4 cup chopped pistachios
1-2 tbsp honey, for drizzling
Fresh thyme leaves (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, maple syrup, orange zest, orange juice, and nutmeg. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
Step 2: Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 6-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cranberries burst and the mixture thickens to a jam-like consistency. Remove from heat and let cool.
Step 3: In a food processor, blend the drained feta, Greek yogurt, chili flakes, and olive oil on high until smooth and creamy. You can also use an immersion blender for this step.
Step 4: To assemble, spread the whipped feta in a shallow bowl. Spoon the cooled cranberry compote over the top, then sprinkle with chopped pistachios, drizzle with honey, and garnish with fresh thyme leaves if using.

Tips & Variations

For extra tang, add a splash of lemon juice to the whipped feta mixture.
Replace pistachios with toasted walnuts or pecans for a different nutty flavor.
Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less maple syrup to the cranberry compote.
If you prefer a milder dip, reduce or omit the chili flakes.

Storage

Store the assembled dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the cranberry compote and whipped feta separate if possible to maintain texture. Reheat the compote gently before serving, or serve cold for a refreshing bite.

How to Serve

A white bowl filled with three visible layers: the bottom layer is smooth and creamy white cheese spread, the middle layer is a thick, glossy dark red berry sauce with whole berries adding texture, and the top layer is scattered chopped green pistachio nuts that provide a crunchy contrast. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface surrounded by small slices of light beige toasted bread and a small white bowl of chopped pistachios on a wooden coaster. A black and white striped cloth is draped casually next to the bowl. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh cranberries work just as well as frozen ones. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly until the berries burst and the compote thickens.