Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip – A Festive Appetizer That Steals the Table
Every holiday spread needs that one dish—the one everyone gathers around, the one people hover over with crackers in hand, asking who made it. Cranberry whipped feta dip is that dish. It’s creamy, tangy, sweet, and just a little savory, with bold color and flavor that instantly feels festive. This is the kind of appetizer that looks impressive but comes together effortlessly, making it perfect for entertaining without stress.
The magic here is contrast. Salty feta whipped until fluffy meets a jewel-toned cranberry topping that’s both tart and lightly sweet. Add a hint of citrus and herbs, and suddenly this humble dip tastes elegant and intentional. Whether you’re serving it for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a cozy winter gathering, this dip brings brightness and balance to heavier holiday menus.
I love setting this out with warm crostini and watching it disappear faster than expected. It’s familiar enough to be comforting, but special enough to feel like a celebration.
Ingredients:
- Feta cheese, crumbled
- Cream cheese, softened
- Olive oil
- Fresh cranberries
- Granulated sugar
- Water
- Orange zest
- Honey
- Fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- Black pepper
Instructions:
- Add feta cheese, cream cheese, and olive oil to a food processor. Blend until smooth, fluffy, and creamy, scraping down sides as needed. Set aside.
- In a small saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, and water. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
- Cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cranberries burst and the mixture thickens slightly.
- Remove from heat and stir in orange zest, honey, and chopped rosemary. Let cool to room temperature.
- Spread the whipped feta onto a shallow serving bowl or plate.
- Spoon the cranberry mixture generously over the feta.
- Finish with cracked black pepper, extra rosemary, and a light drizzle of honey if desired. Serve with crackers or crostini.
Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Blend feta, cream cheese, and olive oil until smooth and fluffy.
- Simmer cranberries, sugar, and water until berries burst and sauce thickens.
- Stir orange zest, honey, and rosemary into cranberry mixture and cool.
- Spread whipped feta on serving plate and top with cranberry mixture.
Notes
Tips & Tricks
- Let the cream cheese soften fully for the smoothest whipped texture.
- For extra silkiness, blend the feta mixture a full minute longer than you think it needs.
- Cool the cranberry topping completely before assembling to keep the feta fluffy.
Variations
- Swap orange zest for lemon for a brighter citrus note.
- Add chopped pistachios or walnuts on top for crunch.
- Use goat cheese in place of cream cheese for extra tang.
- Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for gentle heat.
Serving Suggestions
Serve cranberry whipped feta dip with toasted baguette slices, seeded crackers, or pita chips. It’s also lovely alongside a charcuterie board with cured meats, olives, and fresh fruit.
Storage Information
Store leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Assemble just before serving for best presentation, but components can be made a day ahead.
FAQ
Can I use dried cranberries?
Fresh cranberries work best for texture and color, but dried can be simmered with extra water if needed.
Is this dip very sweet?
No—the sweetness is balanced by the salty feta and citrus.
Can I make it ahead?
Yes. Prepare both components separately up to one day ahead and assemble before serving.
History / Fun Facts
Whipped feta has roots in Mediterranean cuisine, traditionally paired with honey or herbs. Adding cranberries gives it a modern, seasonal twist that’s become especially popular in holiday entertaining for its color and balance of flavors.
