Cranberry whipped feta dip is a creamy and tangy treat that blends the salty flavor of feta cheese with the bright, sweet tang of cranberries. It’s smooth and fluffy, with little bursts of cranberry that add a fun, festive touch. This dip is perfect for the holidays or any time you want something a little different to serve with crackers or fresh veggies.
I love making this dip because it comes together so quickly, but it always feels special. I like to whip the feta cheese until it’s super light and fluffy, which makes the dip feel airy and easy to spread. Adding the cranberries gives it a nice pop of color and just enough sweetness to balance the saltiness. It’s one of those dishes that surprises people because it’s not your everyday dip.
My favorite way to serve cranberry whipped feta dip is on a big platter with crunchy pita chips, cucumber slices, and maybe some roasted nuts on the side. It’s great for sharing at parties or as a simple snack when friends come over. I always make extra because it disappears fast – everyone seems to enjoy that mix of creamy and tangy flavors!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Feta Cheese: Feta is the main star here, offering a tangy, salty flavor. For a milder taste, try goat cheese or ricotta. Make sure it’s well crumbled to blend smoothly.
Cream Cheese & Heavy Cream: These make the dip fluffy and creamy. If you want a lighter dip, swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt or sour cream. Just keep the texture creamy, not runny.
Cranberries: Fresh or frozen cranberries work well. If cranberries aren’t available, tart cherries or pomegranate seeds can add a similar tangy sweetness.
Honey or Maple Syrup: Used to sweeten the cranberry sauce. You can adjust the amount to suit your taste or use agave syrup for a vegan option.
How Do You Whip Feta Cheese Smooth and Fluffy?
Whipping feta into a light, spreadable dip can be tricky because it’s crumbly and salty. Here’s how to get the perfect texture:
- Combine softened cream cheese with crumbled feta and a splash of heavy cream.
- Use a food processor or a hand mixer to whip until smooth. Stop and scrape down the sides as needed.
- If the mixture feels too thick, add a bit more cream, one tablespoon at a time, to get a fluffy, spreadable consistency.
- Chilling the dip for a little while allows the flavors to blend and the texture to set nicely before serving.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Food processor or hand mixer – makes whipping the feta and cream cheese light and smooth quick and easy.
- Small saucepan – perfect for cooking the cranberry sauce without spills.
- Spatula – helps you scrape down the sides and spread the dip nicely in the bowl.
- Serving bowl – choose a pretty one to show off the colorful cranberry topping.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add chopped fresh herbs like thyme or basil for a fresh, herbal note that complements the tangy cheese.
- Stir in toasted nuts such as walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and richness.
- Mix in a little honey or balsamic glaze swirl on top to boost the sweetness and depth.
- Swap cranberries for pomegranate seeds or chopped dried apricots for a different kind of tangy sweetness.
How to Make Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dip:
- 8 oz feta cheese, crumbled
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup heavy cream
For the Cranberry Sauce:
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp orange zest
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
For the Topping and Serving:
- ½ tsp dried rosemary (optional)
- 2 tbsp pumpkin seeds or pepitas
- Crackers, pita chips, or fresh fruit (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare plus 5-7 minutes to cook the cranberry sauce. You can serve it right away or chill the dip to let the flavors blend better.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Whipped Feta Dip:
In a food processor or large bowl, combine the crumbled feta cheese, softened cream cheese, and heavy cream. Whip until the mixture is smooth, light, and fluffy. If needed, add a little more cream to get a nice whipped texture.
2. Cook the Cranberry Sauce:
In a small saucepan over medium heat, mix the cranberries, honey (or maple syrup), orange zest, and lemon juice. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens a bit. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
3. Assemble the Dip:
Spread the whipped feta mixture into a serving bowl, smoothing the top with a spatula.
4. Add Cranberry Sauce and Garnish:
Spoon the warm cranberry sauce over the whipped feta. Sprinkle on dried rosemary and pumpkin seeds or pepitas for a lovely finish and a bit of crunch.
5. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the dip immediately with crackers, pita chips, or fresh fruit like orange slices or apple wedges. If you prefer, chill the dip before serving but bring it to room temperature for the best texture.
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries for the Sauce?
Yes! Frozen cranberries work perfectly. Just thaw them slightly or cook them straight from frozen—the cooking time may be a bit longer until they burst and thicken.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Before serving again, let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes to soften and fluff up.
Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare both the whipped feta and cranberry sauce in advance, store separately in the fridge, and combine just before serving for the freshest texture.
What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option, Greek yogurt or sour cream works well. Just add gradually to maintain the dip’s creamy but spreadable consistency.
