Description
This Sweet & Tangy Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip is a delightful and festive appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings or any party. Creamy whipped feta and cream cheese are combined to create a smooth, airy base, topped with a luscious homemade cranberry and honey compote, garnished with fresh parsley. Served with a variety of crackers or bread, it’s an easy yet impressive dish that balances sweet, tangy, and savory flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Dip
- 8 oz crumbled feta cheese
- 4 oz softened cream cheese
- 1 tsp fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
Cranberry Topping
- 1/2 cup fresh cranberries
- 1/4 cup honey
Garnish & Serving
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
- Assorted crackers or bread for serving
Instructions
- Prepare Cranberry Topping: In a small saucepan, combine 1/2 cup fresh cranberries and 1/4 cup honey. Simmer over medium-low heat for 8-12 minutes until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens slightly. Remove from heat and allow to cool completely to thicken further and develop flavors.
- Whip Feta Dip: In a food processor, combine 8 oz crumbled feta cheese, 4 oz softened cream cheese, 1 tsp fresh lemon juice, 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper, and 1/4 tsp garlic powder. Process for 3-5 minutes, scraping down the sides as needed, until the mixture is smooth, airy, and cloud-like. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary for balance.
- Assemble & Serve: Spoon the whipped feta mixture into a shallow serving bowl and spread it evenly. Generously top with the cooled cranberry compote. Garnish with 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley. Serve immediately alongside an assortment of crackers or bread for dipping.
Notes
- The cranberry topping can be made a day ahead and refrigerated to save time.
- For a more intense tang, add a splash of balsamic vinegar to the cranberry mixture while cooking.
- Use full-fat cream cheese and feta for the creamiest texture.
- Adjust honey amount for sweeter or tarter topping depending on preference.
- Serve with gluten-free crackers or vegetable sticks to accommodate dietary restrictions.
