Sweet & Tangy Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip with Crackers Recipe
Introduction
This Sweet & Tangy Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip is a vibrant and creamy appetizer perfect for any gathering. Combining the sharpness of feta with the sweetness of honeyed cranberries creates a delightful balance of flavors that pairs wonderfully with crackers or bread.
Ingredients
- 8 oz crumbled feta cheese
- 4 oz softened cream cheese
- 1/2 cup fresh cranberries
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tsp fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
- Assorted crackers or bread for serving
Instructions
- Step 1: In a small saucepan, combine the fresh cranberries and honey. Simmer over medium-low heat for 8 to 12 minutes until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens slightly. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
- Step 2: In a food processor, combine the crumbled feta cheese, softened cream cheese, lemon juice, black pepper, and garlic powder. Process for 3 to 5 minutes, scraping down the sides as needed, until the mixture is smooth, airy, and cloud-like. Taste and adjust seasoning if desired.
- Step 3: Spoon the whipped feta into a shallow serving bowl and spread it evenly. Top generously with the cooled cranberry mixture. Garnish with the chopped fresh parsley. Serve immediately with assorted crackers or bread.
Tips & Variations
- For a smoother dip, ensure the cream cheese is very soft before processing.
- Try adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle spicy kick.
- Use dried cranberries soaked briefly in warm water if fresh ones aren’t available, though fresh is preferred for best flavor.
- Garnish with toasted walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor depth.
Storage
Store the whipped feta dip and cranberry topping separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Combine and garnish just before serving. Reheat the cranberry topping gently if desired, but serve the feta dip chilled for best texture.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare both the whipped feta and cranberry topping in advance. Keep them stored separately and assemble right before serving to maintain the best texture and freshness.
What can I serve this dip with besides crackers?
This dip is delicious with sliced baguette, pita chips, fresh vegetable sticks, or even as a spread on sandwiches and wraps.
PrintSweet & Tangy Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip with Crackers Recipe
This Sweet & Tangy Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip is a delightful appetizer blending creamy whipped feta and cream cheese with a luscious, honey-sweetened cranberry topping. Enhanced with fresh lemon juice, garlic, and black pepper, it’s garnished with vibrant parsley and served alongside assorted crackers or bread. Perfect for festive occasions or casual gatherings, this dip balances savory and fruity flavors with a smooth, airy texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: About 12 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
For the Whipped Feta Dip
- 8 oz crumbled feta cheese
- 4 oz softened cream cheese
- 1 tsp fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
For the Cranberry Topping
- 1/2 cup fresh cranberries
- 1/4 cup honey
Garnish and Serving
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
- Assorted crackers or bread for serving
Instructions
- Prepare Cranberry Topping: In a small saucepan, combine 1/2 cup fresh cranberries and 1/4 cup honey. Simmer over medium-low heat for 8-12 minutes until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens slightly. Remove from heat and let cool completely to develop a sweet-tart glaze.
- Whip Feta Dip: In a food processor, combine 8 oz crumbled feta cheese, 4 oz softened cream cheese, 1 tsp fresh lemon juice, 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper, and 1/4 tsp garlic powder. Process for 3-5 minutes, scraping down the sides as needed, until the mixture becomes smooth, light, and airy like whipped cream. Taste and adjust seasoning if desired.
- Assemble & Serve: Spoon the whipped feta mixture into a shallow serving bowl, spreading it evenly. Top generously with the cooled cranberry mixture. Garnish with 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley. Serve immediately with an assortment of crackers or slices of bread for dipping.
Notes
- Allow the cranberry topping to cool completely before adding to prevent melting the whipped feta dip.
- Softening the cream cheese to room temperature ensures a smoother, fluffier dip.
- Make the dip a few hours ahead to let flavors meld; keep covered and refrigerated until serving.
- For a variation, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cranberry topping for subtle heat.
- Use gluten-free crackers or bread to make this appetizer suitable for gluten-sensitive guests.
Keywords: whipped feta dip, cranberry dip, holiday appetizer, creamy dip, easy party dip, sweet and tangy dip, feta cheese recipe
