Jump to Recipe Print RecipeA soft, simmering melody filled my kitchen as the tart cranberries and sweet maple syrup danced together on the stove. This cozy moment inspired me to whip up my favorite festive delight: Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip. This enchanting holiday appetizer merges the creamy richness of whipped feta with a vibrant cranberry compote, offering a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors that will have your guests coming back for more. In under 20 minutes and with just ten simple ingredients, this quick and easy recipe is perfect for last-minute gatherings or as a crowd-pleaser at your seasonal celebrations. So, are you ready to elevate your appetizer game with this scrumptious dip that’s sure to impress? Why is this dip so irresistible? Quick and Easy: This Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip comes together in under 20 minutes, perfect for those last-minute holiday parties! Gourmet Experience: Surprise your guests with a dip that feels upscale yet is made from just ten ingredients. Versatile Serving Options: Serve it with crostini, crackers, or pita chips—it’s deliciously adaptable! For more tasty pairings, check out my Feta Cranberry Rigatoni or Honeycrisp Apple Feta recipes. Crowd-Pleaser: This dip strikes a perfect balance of flavors, appealing to both sweet and savory lovers. Make Ahead Delight: Prepare the compote and dip in advance to save time on busy holiday days. Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip Ingredients For the Cranberry Compote • Cranberries – Adds tartness and forms the flavorful base of the dip; frozen cranberries can be used if fresh aren’t available. • Maple Syrup – Brings a natural sweetness to balance the tart cranberries; honey can serve as an excellent substitute. • Orange Zest & Juice – Infuses brightness and freshness; for a different citrus note, lemon zest and juice work too. • Ground Nutmeg – Introduces warm, festive spice; if preferred, you can swap it for cinnamon for a different twist. For the Whipped Feta • Feta Cheese – Creates the rich and creamy base that defines the dip; ricotta cheese is a lighter alternative if desired. • Plain Greek Yogurt – Adds creaminess while keeping the texture light; consider sour cream as a substitute if needed. • Chili Flakes – Adds a hint of heat; for a milder flavor, freshly cracked black pepper is a great option. • Olive Oil – Helps achieve a smooth texture by emulsifying the feta; avocado oil can be used for a different taste. For the Topping • Chopped Pistachios – Provides a crunchy element and visual appeal; walnuts or pecans can be substituted if preferred. • Honey – A delightful drizzle that enhances flavor and ties everything together; maple syrup can also work as a topping. Enjoy crafting this stunning Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip that is bound to be the star of your holiday gatherings! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip Step 1: Prepare the Cranberry Compote In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, maple syrup, orange zest, orange juice, and ground nutmeg. Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally. As it heats, you’ll see the cranberries begin to burst, releasing their juices. This should take about 3-5 minutes. Step 2: Simmer the Mixture Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and let the cranberry mixture simmer for 6-10 minutes. Stir gently until the cranberries have fully burst and the mixture thickens to a jam-like consistency. You should notice a glossy sheen when it’s ready. Remove the saucepan from heat and set aside to cool for about 10 minutes. Step 3: Blend the Whipped Feta In the meantime, grab your food processor and add the feta cheese, plain Greek yogurt, chili flakes, and olive oil. Blend everything on high speed until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy, with a luscious texture. Scrape down the sides as needed to ensure even mixing. This should take about 1-2 minutes, so you’ll have a rich base for your Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip. Step 4: Assemble the Dip Once the cranberry mixture has cooled, take a shallow serving bowl and layer the whipped feta evenly across the bottom. Spoon the cranberry compote generously over the whipped feta, allowing the beautiful colors to shine through. The contrast will be stunning and appetizing, making your dip a focal point. Step 5: Add the Final Touches To elevate your Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip, sprinkle the chopped pistachios on top for that perfect crunch. Drizzle honey over the entire dip for a touch of sweetness that enhances the flavors. If desired, add fresh thyme leaves for a pop of color and an aromatic finish. Step 6: Serve and Enjoy Present your beautiful dip with an assortment of crostini, crackers, or pita chips for dipping. This delightful Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the fridge for up to two days. Just remember to bring it back to room temperature before serving for the ultimate flavor experience! What to Serve with Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip As the flavors of the cranberry whipped feta dip mingle in your mouth, you’ll want to round out the experience with delightful accompaniments that elevate your gathering. Crispy Crostini: The crunchy texture of crostini provides the ideal vehicle for scooping up the creamy dip, adding a satisfying crunch to each bite. Fresh Vegetable Sticks: Carrot and cucumber sticks offer a refreshing crunch, balancing the richness of the dip while adding a nutritious element to the spread. Savory Crackers: Choose a variety of savory crackers to bring out different flavor notes in the dip. The saltiness adds depth and enhances the overall taste. Pita Chips: Their light and airy texture pairs beautifully, adding a Mediterranean flair that complements the whipped feta’s creamy profile seamlessly. Sparkling White Wine: A chilled glass of bubbly complements the sweet and savory notes in the dip, enhancing the festive spirit of your holiday gathering. Balsamic Reduction Drizzle: Swirl a little over the dip for an extra touch of sweetness and acidity. It elevates the dish to a gourmet level that will impress your guests. Fruit Platter: Fresh berries and apple slices add a burst of brightness, creating a beautiful contrast with the dip’s rich texture and serving to cleanse the palate. Sliced Salami or Prosciutto: The saltiness of these cured meats pairs remarkably well with both the whipped feta and the cranberry compote, adding another layer of flavor. Chocolate-Dipped Pretzels: For a sweet finish, consider serving these alongside for a delightful contrast of sweet and salty, enhancing the whole tasting experience. Storage Tips for Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip Fridge: Store leftover Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip in an airtight container to keep it fresh for up to 2 days. Bring it to room temperature before serving for the best flavor. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cranberry compote separately in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before mixing with whipped feta. Reheating: If desired, gently reheat the cranberry compote on low heat to bring back its warm, inviting flavors before serving. Prep Ahead: Prepare the dip components up to 2 days in advance, storing them separately in the fridge to save time on busy holiday occasions. Make Ahead Options These Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip components are perfect for meal prep! You can make the cranberry compote and whipped feta up to 2 days in advance; simply store them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. The cranberry mix can be refrigerated without losing its vibrant flavor, while the whipped feta will retain its creamy texture. When you’re ready to serve, just remove them from the fridge and allow them to come to room temperature before assembly. Layer the whipped feta and cranberry compote in your serving dish, finish with chopped pistachios and a drizzle of honey, and you’ll enjoy the same delicious taste with minimal effort! Expert Tips for Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip • Prep Ahead: Make both the cranberry compote and whipped feta dip up to 2 days in advance. Store separately in airtight containers for easy assembly. • Texture Matters: Ensure your feta cheese is well-drained to prevent a watery dip. This will give your Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip a creamy, luscious consistency. • Store-Bought Shortcut: In a pinch, swap homemade cranberry compote for store-bought cranberry sauce to save time without sacrificing flavor. • Boost Flavor: For added complexity, consider integrating fresh herbs like rosemary into the whipped feta or a touch of garlic powder for a savory twist. • Serving Style: Present your dip with a variety of dippers—such as veggie sticks, crostini, or pita chips—to enhance the experience and please all palates. • Make It Unique: Feel free to customize your toppings; try different nuts or even a drizzle of balsamic reduction for a gourmet touch! Variations & Substitutions for Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip Feel free to get creative with this dip and make it your own with these fun variations! Dairy-Free: Substitute feta and yogurt with a nut-based cheese and coconut yogurt for a creamy, non-dairy alternative. This offers a unique flavor twist that still keeps things light and fresh, perfect for anyone avoiding dairy. Extra Kick: Mix in a teaspoon of garlic powder or roasted garlic to the whipped feta for an extra layer of flavor. The garlic will elevate the savory notes and create an even more irresistible tasting experience that your guests will adore. Sweet Tang: Try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar to the cranberry compote for a touch of tanginess. It beautifully contrasts the sweetness of maple syrup, giving your dip a gourmet edge that’s deliciously surprising! Nut Boost: Swap chopped pistachios for toasted sunflower seeds for a nut-free version that still delivers satisfying crunch. This ensures every guest can enjoy your creation without allergy concerns while still being wonderfully textured. Herbaceous Twist: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or basil into the whipped feta to brighten up the flavors. This adds a garden-fresh aroma to the dip, making it a delightful, fragrant treat on your holiday table. Spicy Version: For those who crave heat, use jalapeño or sriracha in place of chili flakes. This spicy twist adds a delightful zing and can completely transform the taste profile of your dip to cater to your spice lovers! Cranberry Mix-Up: Don’t hesitate to use other berries, such as blueberries or raspberries, if cranberries are hard to come by. A berry medley can not only enhance the color but also add a lovely burst of different flavors to delight your palate. Crunchy Add-in: For an added crunch, mix in some finely chopped red onion or bell pepper into the whipped feta. The additional texture and flavor contrast will make your dip even more exciting and appealing to your guests! Remember, the beauty of this dip is its versatility. For even more delicious inspirations, consider trying my recipes for Apple Cranberry Coleslaw or Honeycrisp Apple Feta as tasty accompaniments! Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip Recipe FAQs How do I select ripe cranberries? Absolutely! Choose cranberries that are firm and plump, with a vibrant red color. Avoid any that have dark spots or are shriveled, as these may be overripe or spoiled. If fresh cranberries aren’t available, frozen cranberries can be a fantastic alternative without losing too much flavor. What is the best way to store leftover dip? To keep your Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. I recommend bringing it to room temperature before serving again to revive its delightful flavors and creamy texture! Can I freeze the cranberry compote? Yes, you can! To freeze the cranberry compote, pour it into a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for expansion. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to use it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and gently reheat it in a saucepan over low heat to restore its lovely warm flavors. What should I do if my dip is too watery? No worries! If your dip turns out watery, it might be due to extra moisture in the feta cheese. To fix this, try draining the feta more thoroughly next time before blending. Additionally, you can thicken the dip by mixing in a little more Greek yogurt or a small amount of sour cream to reach your desired consistency while maintaining its creamy texture. Is this dip suitable for those with nut allergies? Very! You can absolutely enjoy this Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip without the chopped pistachios or any nuts at all. The dip is naturally vegetarian-friendly, and the flavors are still vibrant and delicious even without the nut toppings. If you’re serving guests, it’s always good to ask about any allergies just to be safe! How can I make this dip healthier? I often suggest mixing in low-fat Greek yogurt instead of regular to cut down on calories while still being creamy. You can also reduce or replace the honey drizzle with maple syrup for a lighter touch, which keeps the sweetness while making it a bit healthier for your holiday gatherings. Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip: Your Holiday Flavor Upgrade A delightful Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip that combines creamy feta with vibrant cranberry compote for a perfect holiday appetizer. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 10 minutes minsCooling Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 8 servingsCourse: AppetizersCuisine: AmericanCalories: 150 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Cranberry Compote2 cups Cranberries Fresh or frozen can be used.1/2 cup Maple Syrup Honey can serve as a substitute.1 tablespoon Orange Zest1/4 cup Orange Juice1/4 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg Cinnamon can be used as a substitute.For the Whipped Feta8 ounces Feta Cheese Ricotta cheese is a lighter alternative.1/2 cup Plain Greek Yogurt Sour cream can be used as a substitute.1/4 teaspoon Chili Flakes Freshly cracked black pepper can be used for a milder flavor.2 tablespoons Olive Oil Avocado oil can be used for a different taste.For the Topping1/4 cup Chopped Pistachios Walnuts or pecans can be substituted.2 tablespoons Honey Maple syrup can also work as a topping. Equipment medium saucepanfood processorserving bowl Method Preparing the DipIn a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, maple syrup, orange zest, orange juice, and ground nutmeg. Place over medium-high heat and bring to a boil, stirring occasionally.Once boiling, reduce heat to medium-low and let simmer for 6-10 minutes until the cranberries have fully burst and the mixture thickens.Remove from heat and set aside to cool for about 10 minutes.In a food processor, blend feta cheese, plain Greek yogurt, chili flakes, and olive oil until smooth and creamy.Layer the whipped feta in a serving bowl, then spoon the cranberry compote over the feta.Sprinkle chopped pistachios on top and drizzle with honey.Serve with crostini, crackers, or pita chips. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 12gProtein: 5gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 250mgPotassium: 120mgFiber: 1gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 0.5mg NotesMake both the cranberry compote and whipped feta dip in advance to save time. Store them separately in airtight containers. 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