Cranberry Whipped Feta Recipe
This Cranberry Whipped recipe is a delightful and festive appetizer featuring a creamy whipped feta cheese base topped with a vibrant homemade cranberry sauce. The combination of tangy cranberries, smooth cheeses, and crunchy pistachios with a hint of crushed red pepper and honey creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Ideal for holiday gatherings or any occasion that calls for an elegant, easy-to-make dip.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6-8 as an appetizer 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Cranberry Sauce
- ½ cup orange juice
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 12 ounces cranberries (1 bag), fresh or frozen
Whipped Feta
- 1 block (8 ounces) feta cheese
- ½ cup cream cheese (or Greek yogurt)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Toppings and Garnishes
- 2 tablespoons pistachios, chopped
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
Instructions
- Make the cranberry sauce: In a medium saucepan, combine orange juice, granulated sugar, and cranberries. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes until most of the cranberries burst.
- Thicken the sauce: Stir continuously while mashing the cranberries with the back of a spoon until the sauce reaches your desired thickness. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature, approximately 15-20 minutes.
- Prepare the whipped feta: In a food processor or blender, combine feta cheese, cream cheese (or Greek yogurt), and extra virgin olive oil. Process until smooth and creamy. If the mixture is too thick, add water one teaspoon at a time until you achieve the perfect spreadable consistency.
- Assemble the dip: Transfer the whipped feta to a serving bowl and use the back of a spoon to create a swirling pattern on the surface.
- Add cranberry topping: Spoon the cooled cranberry sauce evenly over the whipped feta, spreading gently.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped pistachios and crushed red pepper flakes on top. Drizzle with honey if desired. Serve immediately with crackers, pita chips, crostini, or fresh vegetables for dipping.
Notes
- You can substitute cream cheese with Greek yogurt for a tangier flavor and lighter option.
- Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level or omit if you want a milder taste.
- This dip is best served fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 2 days; stir gently before serving.
- For a vegan variation, use dairy-free cream cheese and feta alternatives.
- Use fresh cranberries for the best texture and flavor, but frozen cranberries work well too.
Keywords: cranberry whipped feta, holiday appetizer, cranberry sauce, whipped cheese dip, easy appetizer, festive dip
Find it online: https://liamjayne.com/cranberry-whipped-feta-recipe/
