Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip with Pistachios and Honey Recipe

Introduction

This Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip is a delightful blend of tangy, creamy, and sweet flavors perfect for any gathering. It features a smooth whipped feta base topped with a vibrant cranberry compote and crunchy pistachios. Easy to make and sure to impress, it’s a festive addition to your appetizer spread.

A close-up top view of a white plate with three layers: the bottom layer is smooth and creamy white, the middle layer is a thick, uneven dark red berry compote with bits of green chopped pistachios sprinkled on top, and the top layer is a mix of creamy white and berry red swirled together. A gold and dark wooden spreader rests on the plate, with a scoop of the mixed creamy and berry topping. The plate is placed on a white marbled surface next to a black and white striped cloth. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

  • 2 cups frozen or fresh cranberries
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup
  • Zest and juice of one orange
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 225 g (8 oz) feta cheese, about 1 1/2 cups crumbled
  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 1/4 tsp chili flakes
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
  • 1-2 tbsp honey for drizzling
  • Fresh thyme leaves (optional)

Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, maple syrup, orange zest, orange juice, and ground nutmeg. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
  2. Step 2: Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 6-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens to a jam-like consistency. Remove from heat and let cool.
  3. Step 3: Place the crumbled feta, Greek yogurt, chili flakes, and olive oil in a food processor. Blend on high until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Alternatively, use an immersion blender.
  4. Step 4: Once the cranberry compote has cooled, spoon the whipped feta into a serving bowl. Layer the cranberry mixture on top.
  5. Step 5: Garnish with chopped pistachios, a drizzle of honey, and fresh thyme leaves if using. Serve immediately with your choice of crackers or bread.

Tips & Variations

  • Use fresh cranberries for a more vibrant flavor, or frozen if out of season—just thaw first.
  • Adjust the chili flakes to taste, or substitute with smoked paprika for a different spice note.
  • Try swapping pistachios for toasted walnuts or pecans for a different crunch.
  • For a vegan version, replace feta with a plant-based cheese alternative and use coconut yogurt instead of Greek yogurt.

Storage

Store the cranberry compote and whipped feta separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Assemble just before serving for best texture and flavor. Reheat the compote gently on the stove if desired, but keep the feta dip cold.

How to Serve

A light pink bowl holds a dip with three main layers: the bottom layer is white and smooth, likely a creamy spread, topped by a generous layer of deep red, glossy berry jam or sauce that looks chunky, and the top layer is sprinkled with small pieces of chopped light brown and green pistachios, giving a crunchy texture. The bowl rests on a white marbled textured surface, with some slices of light golden toasted bread scattered around. A small white bowl with more chopped pistachios sits on a wooden coaster to the upper right, and a black and white striped cloth is folded to the lower right corner. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare both the cranberry compote and whipped feta up to 3 days in advance. Keep them refrigerated separately and combine just before serving.

What should I serve with this cranberry whipped feta dip?

It pairs wonderfully with crisp crackers, toasted baguette slices, fresh vegetable sticks, or warm pita bread.

Print

Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip with Pistachios and Honey Recipe

This vibrant and creamy Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip combines tangy feta cheese with sweet and zesty cranberry compote, making it a perfect festive appetizer or snack. The rich whipped feta blended with Greek yogurt and chili flakes contrasts beautifully with the warm maple-orange cranberry jam, topped with crunchy pistachios and a honey drizzle for a delightful balance of flavors and textures.

  • Author: Nora
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

For the Cranberries

  • 2 cups frozen or fresh cranberries
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup
  • Zest & juice of one orange
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg

For the Whipped Feta

  • 225 g (8 oz) feta cheese, about 1 1/2 cups crumbled feta
  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 1/4 tsp chili flakes
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Garnishes

  • 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
  • 12 tbsp honey to drizzle
  • Fresh thyme leaves, optional

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cranberries: In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, maple syrup, orange zest, orange juice, and ground nutmeg. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
  2. Simmer the Cranberries: After boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and let the cranberries simmer for 6 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Cook until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens to a jam-like consistency. Remove from heat and allow it to cool.
  3. Whip the Feta: In a food processor, add the crumbled feta cheese, plain Greek yogurt, chili flakes, and olive oil. Blend on high speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Alternatively, use an immersion blender to achieve the same texture.
  4. Assemble the Dip: Once the cranberry compote has cooled, spread the whipped feta evenly in a shallow serving bowl. Spoon the cranberry mixture on top, then sprinkle with chopped pistachios. Drizzle honey over the top and garnish with fresh thyme if desired.

Notes

  • Use fresh or frozen cranberries; if using frozen, no need to thaw before cooking.
  • Adjust sweetness by modifying the amount of maple syrup to taste.
  • Chili flakes add a subtle spicy kick; omit if you prefer a milder dip.
  • Serve with crackers, toasted bread, or vegetable sticks for a delicious appetizer.
  • This dip can be made a few hours ahead; store chilled and assemble garnish just before serving for freshness.

Keywords: whipped feta dip, cranberry dip, appetizer, Greek yogurt, festive dip, feta cheese, cranberry compote, easy holiday recipes

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