Whipped Feta with Honey Recipe
Creamy, tangy whipped feta cheese blended smooth with honey and olive oil, creating a luscious sweet and savory appetizer perfect for serving with pita bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables. This simple recipe is quick to prepare and wonderfully versatile for various flavor variations and serving styles.
- Author: liam
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 1.5 cups 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Whipped Feta Base
- 8 ounces (225g) block of feta cheese, preferably Greek
- 2–4 tablespoons heavy cream or whole milk (adjust to desired consistency)
- 2–3 tablespoons honey, preferably local and raw
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Pinch of flaky sea salt, to taste
Optional Garnishes
- Chopped fresh herbs (dill, mint, oregano)
- Toasted nuts (walnuts, pistachios)
- Lemon zest
- Additional honey for drizzling
Serving Suggestions
- Pita bread
- Crusty bread
- Crackers
- Crudités (carrots, celery, cucumbers)
- Grilled vegetables
- Crumble the Feta: Place the block of feta cheese in a food processor, crumbling it roughly. The food processor will break it down further during blending.
- Add the Cream or Milk: Pour 2 tablespoons of heavy cream or whole milk into the food processor with the feta to help achieve a creamy texture. You will adjust more later if needed.
- Process Until Smooth: Pulse or run the processor for 1-2 minutes until the feta becomes smooth and creamy. Stop occasionally to scrape down the sides for even blending.
- Check Consistency: Evaluate the texture of the whipped feta. If it’s too thick or crumbly, add an additional tablespoon of cream or milk and process again until it’s light and airy, similar to a mousse.
- Add Honey and Olive Oil: Add 2-3 tablespoons of honey and 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil to the processor, which will balance the saltiness and enrich the mixture.
- Process Again: Blend for another 30 seconds to 1 minute until fully combined and smooth.
- Season to Taste: Mix in 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes if using, freshly ground black pepper, and a pinch of flaky sea salt. Taste and adjust seasoning or honey as desired.
- Transfer and Drizzle: Spoon the whipped feta into a serving dish and drizzle extra virgin olive oil over the top to enhance flavor and presentation.
- Garnish (Optional): Add chopped fresh herbs, toasted nuts, lemon zest, and a bit more honey for added flavor and texture.
- Chill (Recommended): Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and firm up the texture slightly. Can be served immediately if needed.
- Serve and Enjoy: Accompany with pita bread, crackers, crudités, or grilled vegetables for a delightful appetizer or snack.
Notes
- Use high-quality Greek feta packed in brine for best flavor and texture.
- Adjust honey and red pepper flakes to your preferred sweetness and spice levels.
- Experiment with herbs like rosemary, thyme, or chives for unique flavors.
- Whipped feta can be prepared up to 3 days in advance; keep covered refrigerated.
- If too thick, add more cream or milk one tablespoon at a time; if too thin, chill longer or add a bit more feta and blend again.
- For vegan option, substitute feta with a vegan feta alternative made from tofu or plant-based ingredients.
- Serve beyond appetizers: great as sandwich spread, salad topping, or dolloped on grilled meats.
- Consider adding roasted garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted red peppers for flavor variations.
Keywords: Whipped feta, honey, appetizer, easy dip, Greek feta, creamy cheese spread, savory and sweet