This Easy Whipped Feta Dip with Cranberries is creamy, tangy, and topped with a burst of sweet-tart cranberry flavor that instantly feels festive. It’s the kind of easy appetizer that looks impressive but is a breeze to put together!
Table of Contents
What is Whipped Feta Dip with Cranberries?
Whipped feta dip is a smooth, creamy spread made by blending feta cheese with a softer dairy component until airy and spoonable. The result is rich yet light, with a slightly salty undertone that pairs beautifully with both sweet and savory toppings.
In this version, our whipped feta is finished with a cranberry topping that’s gently simmered until juicy and jam-like. The contrast between the tangy cheese and the bright, fruity topping makes this dish feel balanced, bold, and perfect for sharing.
Ingredients You Need
For the Cranberries
- Fresh Cranberries – These bring a bright, tart pop that balances the richness of the cheese. Cooking them briefly helps them burst and soften.
- Maple Syrup – Syrup adds gentle sweetness with warm undertones that pair perfectly with cranberries.
- Orange Juice – A splash of citrus brightens the cranberry mixture and adds freshness. It also helps round out the tartness as the cranberries cook down.
- Nutmeg – This is a great way to add warm flavor without overpowering the fruit. A little goes a long way and adds subtle holiday vibes.
For the Whipped Feta
- Feta Cheese – Choose a good-quality block of full-fat feta for the smoothest texture and best flavor.
- Cottage Cheese – This adds creaminess without making the dip heavy, helping the whipped feta turn silky and spreadable.
- Olive Oil – A small splash helps everything blend smoothly and keeps the whipped feta light and airy.
- Water – Just a splash or two of water will help to adjust the texture without diluting the flavor.
Garnishes
- Pistachios – These add crunch and a hint of nuttiness that contrasts beautifully with the creamy whipped feta. Chopped pistachios also bring a pop of color.
- Honey – A drizzle over the top adds floral sweetness and ties everything together. It balances the salty cheese and tart cranberries beautifully.
How to Make Whipped Feta Dip with Cranberries
- Prepare the Cranberry Topping. Combine the cranberries with maple syrup, orange juice, and nutmeg in a saucepan and gently cook until the berries soften and release their juices. Stir occasionally until the mixture thickens slightly, then set it aside to cool.
- Blend the Whipped Feta. Add the feta, cottage cheese, and olive oil to a food processor and blend until completely smooth, adding a small bit of water to thin it out as needed. Scrape down the sides as needed so the mixture becomes creamy and uniform.
- Assemble the Dip. Spread the whipped feta into a shallow bowl, creating soft swirls with the back of a spoon. Spoon the cooled cranberry mixture over the top, then finish with pistachios, a generous drizzle of honey, and fresh thyme if using.
Variations
- Citrus – Add orange zest or lemon zest to the cranberry mixture for an even brighter flavor and aroma.
- Spicy-Sweet – A pinch of crushed red pepper flakes adds gentle heat that plays well with the sweet cranberries.
- Herbs – Swap thyme for rosemary or sage for a more savory, earthy finish.
- Nut-Free – Skip the pistachios and use toasted seeds for crunchiness instead.
- Roasted Grapes – Replace cranberries with roasted grapes for a sweeter, jammy variation.
- Honey-Free – Use a balsamic reduction for a rich, tangy finish.
Can I Store Leftovers?
If leftovers are stored after assembling, the toppings may soften slightly as they sit, but the flavors will continue to come together.
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, storing the cranberry topping separately if possible for the best texture.
The whipped feta can be frozen for up to 1 month, but the cranberry topping is best enjoyed fresh and not frozen. If the dip’s texture is altered when thawed, try pulsing it in a blender to restore its smoothness.
Common Questions about Whipped Feta Dip with Cranberries
Yes! An immersion blender or high-powered blender can work, too.
Fresh cranberries work best for texture and brightness, but dried cranberries can be simmered with liquid in a pinch.
It’s best slightly chilled or at room temperature so the texture stays creamy.
Full-fat feta makes the smoothest, richest whipped feta, but lower-fat versions can work with extra blending.
More Delicious Dip Recipes
There’s nothing quite like a creamy dip to get a party started! Take a peek at more of our popular dips that will have everyone asking for the recipe.
Whipped Cottage Cheese with Marinated Olives
Sourdough Bread Bowl Cheese Dip
Easy Whipped Feta Dip with Cranberries
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Ingredients
For the Cranberries
- 2 cups frozen or fresh cranberries
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 1/8 tsp nutmeg
For the Dip
- 4 oz block feta cheese in brine drained
- 1/2 cup cottage cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Splash of water
Garnishes
- 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
- 1–2 tbsp honey to drizzle
- Fresh thyme optional
Instructions
- Cook the Cranberries: In a medium saucepan, add cranberries, maple syrup, orange juice, and nutmeg. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 6–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens to a jam-like consistency. Remove from heat and let cool.2 cups frozen or fresh cranberries, 1/4 cup maple syrup, 1/4 cup orange juice, 1/8 tsp nutmeg
- Make the Whipped Feta: Add feta, cottage cheese, and water (for thinning) to a food processor. Blend on high until smooth and creamy. (You can also use an immersion blender.)4 oz block feta cheese in brine, 1/2 cup cottage cheese, 2 tbsp olive oil, Splash of water
- Assemble: Spread the whipped feta in a shallow serving bowl. Spoon the cranberry mixture over the top. Sprinkle with pistachios, drizzle generously with honey, and add thyme if desired.1/4 cup chopped pistachios, 1–2 tbsp honey to drizzle, Fresh thyme
Equipment
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
