Best Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip Recipe

Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip is a smooth and creamy feta-based spread topped with a quick cranberry-orange compote. The feta gives it that signature tang, while the cream cheese adds a soft, velvety texture. It’s sweet, savory, and slightly zesty — a great match for crostini, crackers, or pita chips.

Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip is one of those recipes that looks fancy but takes barely any time to make. I first made it for a small get-together last holiday season, and it disappeared faster than anything else on the table. The salty feta, smooth cream cheese, and sweet-tart cranberries hit all the right notes.

If you’re looking for a holiday appetizer that feels special without extra fuss, this dip is it. It’s festive, colorful, and perfect for any gathering — from Thanksgiving to Christmas Eve snacks.

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip Recipe?

Because it’s easy, creamy, and full of flavor! You don’t need a food processor or fancy ingredients — just a hand mixer, a few pantry staples,

and fresh cranberries. Plus, the balance of tangy feta, honey-sweet cranberries, and a hint of thyme makes every bite crave-worthy.

How To Make  Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip?

Recipe Overview

Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip is a creamy appetizer made with feta, cream cheese, and honey, then topped with a bright cranberry-orange compote and chopped pistachios. It’s perfect for holidays or any party spread.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Cuisine: American
• Course: Appetizer
• Difficulty Level: Easy
• Yield: 1 ½ cups
• Servings: 6
• Serving Size: About ¼ cup
• Calories per Serving: ~220

Equipment Needed

• Medium saucepan
• Mixing bowl
• Hand mixer or whisk
• Zester or grater
• Serving bowl or platter
• Spoon or spatula

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

Ingredient Notes

1. Feta in brine: This type of feta is creamier and saltier — perfect for blending into a rich dip.

2. Cream cheese: Softened cream cheese makes the texture extra smooth.

3. Cranberries: Fresh or frozen both work. If frozen, no need to thaw.

4. Honey: Balances the tangy feta and tart cranberries beautifully.

5. Orange zest and juice: Add a bright citrus flavor that complements the cranberries.

6. Pistachios: Give the dip crunch and a nutty finish.

7. Thyme: Adds a subtle herby aroma. You can swap it for rosemary if you prefer.

Instructions

1. Make the Cranberry Topping:

• In a medium saucepan, combine orange juice, 1 tablespoon honey, cranberries, and a sprig of thyme.
• Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens slightly (about 8–10 minutes). Remove the thyme sprig and set the compote aside to cool.

2. Prepare the Whipped Feta:

• In a bowl, add feta, cream cheese, remaining honey, garlic, red pepper flakes, and chopped thyme.
• Using a hand mixer, beat until creamy and smooth (2–3 minutes). If you prefer a lighter texture, add a drizzle of olive oil while mixing.

3. Assemble the Dip:

• Spoon the whipped feta into a serving bowl. Top with the cooled cranberry compote.
• Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle chopped pistachios over the top.

4. Serve:

Serve right away with crackers, crostini, or pita chips.

Nutrition (per serving)

• Calories: 220
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 17g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 8g

Tips and Variations

✔ Make Ahead: You can make the whipped feta up to 2 days ahead and store it in the fridge. Add the cranberry topping just before serving.

✔ Switch the Nuts: Try chopped pecans or walnuts instead of pistachios.

✔ Add Heat: Sprinkle a little extra crushed red pepper on top for a spicy kick.

✔ Sweet Touch: Stir a spoonful of fig jam or drizzle extra honey on top for extra sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

❖ Serve it with crackers, toasted baguette slices, or pita chips.

❖ For a festive touch, spoon it onto endive leaves or cucumber rounds.

❖ It pairs perfectly with a holiday charcuterie board or as a side to roasted turkey or ham.

Storing Tips

➣ Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

➣ If you make the cranberry topping ahead, keep it separate and assemble before serving for the best texture.

Health Benefits

◈ Cranberries are packed with antioxidants and vitamin C.

◈ Feta cheese provides calcium and protein while being lower in fat than many other cheeses.

◈ Olive oil and pistachios add healthy fats that support heart health.

Recipe Notes

• Always use feta in brine for the creamiest texture.
• Let the cream cheese soften at room temperature for easy blending.
• This dip tastes best slightly chilled or at room temperature.

Conclusion

Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip brings together creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors in one irresistible bite. It’s simple, festive, and guaranteed to impress your guests — even the ones who “don’t like dip.”

If you make this recipe, let me know how it turns out! I love seeing your creations — tag me on Instagram or drop a comment below so we can share our holiday kitchen wins together.