This Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip is creamy, tangy, and just the right amount of sweet! With whipped feta and tart cranberries, it’s a hit at parties or cozy nights in.
Honestly, this dip is a total crowd-pleaser. I love spreading it on crackers or using veggies for a tasty snack. Plus, it’s super easy to make—just blend and enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Feta Cheese: This dip needs feta for that salty, tangy flavor. If you’re worried about saltiness, try using reduced-sodium feta! You could also use goat cheese for a creamier texture and a different flavor profile.
Cream Cheese: Soften this for a smooth blend. You can use a lighter cream cheese or even Greek yogurt for a healthier version, keeping that creamy base intact.
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries are ideal for color and taste, but frozen ones work great too! If you prefer, raspberry jam can replace cranberries for a sweet twist.
Pumpkin Seeds (Pepitas): These add a lovely crunch. If you don’t have them, swap out with sunflower seeds or even slivered almonds for a different flavor, though the taste will change a bit.
How Do I Get the Right Creamy Texture for the Dip?
To achieve that smooth and creamy dip, blending is key! Start by ensuring your cream cheese is at room temperature; it’ll mix much easier. Use a food processor for best results. Blend until there are no lumps, and the mixture is fluffy.
- Combine the feta, cream cheese, Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, and black pepper in the processor.
- Scrape down the sides a couple of times for an even blend.
This technique ensures every bite is creamy and delicious! And remember, a little extra olive oil on top adds flavor and a nice sheen to the dip. Happy dipping!
Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dip:
- 8 oz feta cheese, crumbled
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1 tablespoon olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Cranberry Topping:
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary leaves, chopped
- 2 tablespoons pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
For Serving:
- Crackers, toasted baguette slices, or fresh veggies
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dip takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus a little time for cooking the cranberry topping (about 5-7 minutes). It’s a quick and easy way to impress your guests or enjoy a tasty snack at home!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Whipped Feta:
Start off by getting your food processor or blender ready. Add the crumbled feta cheese, softened cream cheese, Greek yogurt (or sour cream), olive oil, lemon juice, and black pepper. Blend everything together until it’s super smooth and creamy. You might have to stop and scrape down the sides a few times to make sure everything is mixed well. Once it’s nice and fluffy, transfer the mixture to a serving bowl and gently spread it out, creating a little shallow well in the center.
2. Making the Cranberry Topping:
Next, heat a small saucepan over medium heat. Add your cranberries, honey (or maple syrup), and chopped rosemary. Stir this mixture occasionally while it cooks for about 5-7 minutes, or until the cranberries start to burst and soften. Once done, take it off the heat and let it cool a little.
3. Finishing Touches:
Once the cranberry mixture is ready, sprinkle the pumpkin seeds into the mix and stir it all together. Now, it’s time to spoon this delicious topping over your whipped feta in the bowl. Let some of those juicy cranberry bits drizzle over the cheese for extra flavor!
4. Drizzle and Garnish:
For a final touch, drizzle a bit of olive oil over the top. If you’re feeling fancy, you can garnish with a few more rosemary leaves for that beautiful finish.
5. Serve It Up:
Your Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip is now ready to be enjoyed! Serve it with crackers, toasted baguette slices, or fresh veggies for dipping. Everyone will love this creamy, tangy, sweet, and crunchy dip that’s just perfect for gatherings or enjoying on your own!
This recipe highlights the creamy texture of whipped feta balanced beautifully with the sweet-tart cranberry topping and the delightful crunch of pumpkin seeds. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Low-Fat Cream Cheese or Feta?
Absolutely! Low-fat cream cheese and reduced-fat feta will work just fine in this recipe. Just keep in mind that the flavor might be slightly milder, but it will still be delicious!
What Can I Substitute for Honey?
If you prefer not to use honey, maple syrup is a great alternative. You can also use agave nectar or a sugar substitute for a lower-calorie option. Adjust the amount to taste as necessary!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a quick stir before serving again, as it may thicken a bit when chilled.
Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the whipped feta and cranberry topping separately in advance! Just keep each component in the fridge. Assemble the dip right before serving for the freshest taste and texture.
