Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip
Have you ever wished for all the flavors of a holiday cheese board without the hassle? Look no further! This cranberry-topped whipped feta dip is the ultimate solution for your holiday appetizer needs. Fresh feta cheese is blended with herbs, garlic, and cream cheese until irresistibly smooth, then topped with tangy homemade cranberry sauce, crunchy toasted pistachios, and a drizzle of honey. The result is a delightful medley of salty, creamy, sweet, and tart flavors—perfect for impressing guests at your holiday dinner or New Year’s Eve celebration.
Ingredients
- 1/3 cup fresh orange juice, plus 1 tsp. finely grated orange zest
- 2 Tbsp. honey, divided
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 sprig thyme, plus 2 tsp. chopped thyme leaves
- 6 oz. feta in brine, cut into small cubes
- 1 clove garlic, grated or minced
- 1/4 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes
- 6 oz. cream cheese, room temperature
- 2 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 Tbsp. toasted chopped pistachios
- Crackers or crostini, for serving
Instructions
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk orange juice and 1 tablespoon honey until combined, then bring to a boil. Add cranberries and thyme sprig and return to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook, stirring occasionally, until cranberries burst and become saucy, 7 to 8 minutes. Remove thyme and stir in orange zest. Let cool.
- Meanwhile, drain brine from feta. In a food processor, pulse feta, garlic, red pepper flakes, and chopped thyme until feta is broken up into small crumbs. Add cream cheese and pulse until combined. With motor running, drizzle in oil and blend until mixture is smooth and fluffy.
- Transfer whipped feta to a serving bowl. Top with cooled cranberry sauce. Sprinkle with pistachios and drizzle with remaining 1 tablespoon honey. Serve with crackers alongside.
- Make Ahead: Dip can be made 4 days ahead. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate.
Notes
Storage & make ahead:
Whether you have leftovers or want to make this dip ahead, store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 4 days. If you do make this dip ahead, we recommend waiting to top it with your cranberry sauce and pistachios until right before serving.
Whether you have leftovers or want to make this dip ahead, store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 4 days. If you do make this dip ahead, we recommend waiting to top it with your cranberry sauce and pistachios until right before serving.
Nutrition
Calories: 218kcalCarbohydrates: 11gProtein: 5gFat: 17gSaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 42mgSodium: 303mgPotassium: 94mgFiber: 1gSugar: 7gCalcium: 143mgIron: 1mg
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