This Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip is a perfect party treat! It blends creamy feta with sweet cranberries for a yummy flavor that everyone will love. Plus, it’s super quick to whip up!
I can’t get enough of this dip during the holidays. Serve it with crackers or veggies, and watch it disappear! It’s so tasty, even the feta haters might come back for seconds! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Feta Cheese: Feta is the star of this dip. For a milder flavor, you can use goat cheese instead. Both add that creamy tanginess!
Cream Cheese: Use full-fat cream cheese for a rich texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, Neufchâtel cheese works well too.
Greek Yogurt: This ingredient adds creaminess and tang. If you prefer a lighter version, plain or low-fat sour cream is a good substitute.
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries are best for tartness, but frozen can work just as well if fresh isn’t available. Just cook them a bit longer.
Nuts: I love using pistachios for a nice crunch. Walnuts also add great flavor. If you need a nut-free version, you can skip them entirely.
How Do I Make Sure My Cranberry Sauce Is Perfectly Delicious?
The cranberry sauce adds a delightful sweetness that contrasts with the tangy feta. Here’s how to achieve that perfect sauce:
- Start by cooking the cranberries with sugar and water on medium heat. Stir gently until they burst, about 8-10 minutes.
- If you’re using fresh cranberries, keep an eye on them—they will pop as they cook!
- Don’t forget to let the sauce cool slightly before adding it to the dip; this helps it meld better with the whipped feta.
Making this sauce is simple and really enhances the dip’s flavor—don’t skip it!
Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dip:
- 8 oz feta cheese, crumbled
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened
- ⅓ cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1 tablespoon honey (plus extra for drizzling)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
For the Cranberry Topping:
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped (optional)
For Garnishing:
- 2 tablespoons chopped nuts (pistachios or walnuts work well)
- Crackers or crostini, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 10 minutes to make the cranberry sauce. Overall, about 25 minutes from start to finish, and it’s ready to impress your guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Cranberry Sauce:
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the cranberries, sugar, and 1 tablespoon of water. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and form a thick sauce, which should take about 8-10 minutes. Once done, remove it from the heat and stir in the chopped rosemary if you’re using it. Let the sauce cool slightly while you prepare the dip.
2. Prepare the Whipped Feta:
In a food processor or with a hand mixer, blend together the crumbled feta cheese, softened cream cheese, Greek yogurt, honey, and lemon juice. Mix until it is smooth and fluffy, creating a creamy dip texture.
3. Assemble Your Dip:
Transfer the whipped feta mixture to a serving bowl. Create a shallow well in the center of the dip with the back of a spoon.
4. Add the Cranberry Topping:
Spoon the warm cranberry sauce into the well you made in the feta dip. Drizzle a little extra honey over the cranberries for that sweet touch!
5. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle the chopped nuts over the cranberry topping for added crunch and flavor. Serve the dip immediately with crackers or crostini for spreading. Enjoy your festive and delicious Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip!
This creamy, tangy dip is beautifully balanced by the sweet and tart cranberry topping, making it a hit for holiday gatherings or any occasion. Happy dipping!
Can I Use Low-Fat Cream Cheese for This Dip?
Absolutely! Using low-fat cream cheese will still yield a delicious dip, though it may be slightly less creamy. Just ensure it’s softened for easier blending.
What Other Toppings Can I Use With the Feta Dip?
You can customize this dip with various toppings! Try adding caramelized onions, roasted red peppers, or even a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a different flavor profile.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To enjoy the dip again, just give it a quick stir before serving, or let it come to room temperature.
Can I Make This Dip in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the whipped feta a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just make the cranberry sauce on the day you plan to serve it for the best taste and texture.
