Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip is a bright and creamy treat that brings together the tangy punch of whipped feta cheese with the sweet and tart burst of fresh cranberries. It’s smooth, a little crumbly, and has that perfect pop of cranberry goodness that makes it great for any time you want a snack that feels special.
I love making this dip for get-togethers because it’s quick to whip up and always gets compliments. The way the creamy feta blends with the juicy cranberries surprises everyone, and it’s fun to watch people guess what’s inside before they take a bite. I usually add a little drizzle of olive oil on top and some fresh herbs to make it look extra inviting.
My favorite way to serve this is with crispy pita chips, fresh veggies, or even toasted baguette slices. It’s one of those dips that’s great for sharing and perfect for the holidays or just because you want something fresh and tasty. Every time I make it, I find myself sneaking spoonfuls while cooking—it’s just that good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Feta Cheese
- The heart of this dip! Use a good-quality block feta for the best flavor and texture. If you want a milder taste, try using a feta blended with goat cheese or a dairy-free feta for a vegan twist.
- Cream Cheese & Greek Yogurt
- These add creaminess and smoothness. For a lighter version, swap cream cheese with Greek yogurt, but keep some cream cheese for that rich texture.
- Cranberries
- Fresh are ideal for their tartness, but frozen work well too. If you don’t have cranberries, pomegranate seeds or chopped dried cranberries rehydrated with a splash of water are good alternatives.
- Rosemary & Pumpkin Seeds
- Fresh rosemary adds herbiness. If you don’t have rosemary, try thyme or sage. Pumpkin seeds give crunch; toasted nuts like walnuts or pecans are tasty substitutes.
How Do You Make the Cranberry Topping Perfectly Saucy but Chunky?
The cranberry topping balances sweet and tart with herbal notes. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Use medium heat to gently soften cranberries without breaking all of them down.
- Stir occasionally, letting some juices release to create a sauce but keep some cranberry pieces whole.
- Don’t overcook—5-7 minutes is usually enough.
- Add sugar to tame tartness and olive oil for richness.
- Finally, stir in fresh rosemary for an herbal touch without overpowering the fruit.
This technique creates a vibrant topping that contrasts nicely with the creamy, smooth dip underneath.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Food processor or blender – Makes whipping the feta and cream cheese smooth and quick.
- Small saucepan – Perfect for gently cooking cranberries into a saucy topping.
- Mixing bowl – Useful if you don’t have a processor; you can whip the cheeses by hand here.
- Spatula or spoon – Helps you scrape out and spread the whipped dip evenly.
- Serving plate or shallow bowl – Shows off the dip attractively for guests.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap rosemary for thyme or sage for a different herbal note that still pairs well with cranberries.
- Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne for a subtle spicy kick to the cranberry topping.
- Mix in chopped toasted pecans or walnuts instead of pumpkin seeds for crunch and warmth.
- Stir in a spoonful of orange zest for a fresh citrus twist brightening the dip’s flavor.
Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dip:
- 8 oz (225 g) feta cheese, crumbled
- 4 oz (115 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Cranberry Topping:
- 1 cup fresh or thawed frozen cranberries
- 1 tablespoon olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped, plus extra sprigs for garnish
- 2 tablespoons pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
To Serve:
- Assorted toasted baguette slices or crackers
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and approximately 5-7 minutes to cook the cranberry topping. It’s quick to assemble and ready to serve immediately, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings or snacks.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Whipped Feta Dip:
Start by placing the crumbled feta, softened cream cheese, Greek yogurt, honey, lemon juice, and black pepper into a food processor or mixing bowl. Blend or whip everything together until it becomes smooth and creamy. Scrape down the sides if needed to ensure everything is mixed well. Once ready, spread the whipped feta evenly on a serving plate.
2. Prepare the Cranberry Topping:
In a small saucepan, combine the fresh or thawed cranberries with olive oil, sugar, and chopped rosemary. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries soften and release their juices, about 5-7 minutes. The mixture should be thick and saucy but still have some berry chunks. Remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly.
3. Assemble the Dip:
Spoon the warm cranberry topping evenly over the whipped feta layer. Drizzle a little extra olive oil over everything. Then, sprinkle pumpkin seeds on top for added crunch and garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the dip with toasted baguette slices, crackers, or fresh vegetable sticks. You can enjoy it right away or place it in the fridge for a short time to let the flavors meld together.
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries Instead of Fresh?
Yes, frozen cranberries work great! Just thaw them completely before cooking to ensure they soften evenly in the saucepan.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Dip?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Give it a gentle stir before serving and let it come to room temperature for the best flavor.
Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the whipped feta and cranberry topping separately, then combine just before serving. Keep both refrigerated until ready.
What Are Good Substitutes for Pumpkin Seeds?
Feel free to use toasted walnuts, pecans, or even sliced almonds for a similar crunchy texture and nutty flavor.