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


  • Author: Rafael
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: About 1 1/2 cups of dip, serves 6-8 as an appetizer 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This festive Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip is a vibrant and creamy appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings. Combining tangy feta cheese whipped to smooth perfection with sweet and spiced cranberry compote, topped with crunchy pistachios, a honey drizzle, and fresh thyme, this dip balances savory and sweet flavors for a crowd-pleasing treat.


Ingredients

Scale

Cranberry Compote

  • 2 cups frozen or fresh cranberries
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup
  • Zest and juice of one orange
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg

Whipped Feta Dip Base

  • 225 g (8oz) block of feta cheese in brine – drained
  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 1/4 tsp chili flakes
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Toppings

  • 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
  • 12 tbsp honey for drizzling
  • Fresh thyme leaves, optional

Instructions

  1. Make the Cranberry Compote: In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, maple syrup, orange zest, orange juice, and ground nutmeg. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer, stirring occasionally, for 6-10 minutes until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens to a jam-like consistency. Remove from heat and allow to cool.
  2. Whip the Feta: In a food processor or using an immersion blender, combine the drained feta cheese, plain Greek yogurt, chili flakes, and olive oil. Blend on high until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
  3. Assemble the Dip: Spoon the whipped feta mixture into a shallow serving bowl, smoothing the top. Layer the cooled cranberry compote evenly over the feta. Sprinkle chopped pistachios on top and drizzle with honey. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves if using.
  4. Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately with crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetables, or refrigerate until ready to serve. The dip can be made a few hours in advance for convenience.

Notes

  • Drain the feta well to prevent the dip from becoming watery.
  • Cranberry compote can be made a day ahead and refrigerated.
  • Adjust the chili flakes to your preferred spice level.
  • Use fresh thyme for a bright herbal note, or omit if unavailable.
  • This dip pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, pita chips, or vegetable sticks.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: cranberry whipped feta dip, holiday appetizer, cranberry compote, festive dip, feta cheese dip, holiday recipe