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Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip with Hot Honey Drizzle

A creamy, tangy whipped feta base topped with sweet-tart cranberry compote and a spicy hot honey drizzle. This festive dip is a show-stopping appetizer perfect for holidays and gatherings.

Ingredients

  • Feta Cheese: 8 ounces – Adds bold tangy flavor and creamy texture when whipped.
  • Cream Cheese: 4 ounces – Softens the sharpness of the feta and adds silkiness.
  • Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons – Helps blend and smooth the cheese mixture.
  • Honey: 3 tablespoons – Adds a touch of sweetness and balances the tart cranberries.
  • Red Pepper Flakes: 1 teaspoon – Infuses the honey with a warm, spicy kick.
  • Fresh Cranberries: 1 cup – Bright and tart, they become jammy and rich when cooked.
  • Orange Zest: 1 teaspoon – Adds citrusy brightness that lifts the cranberries.
  • Orange Juice: 2 tablespoons – Enhances the fruitiness and brings the cranberries together.
  • Sugar: 2 tablespoons – Balances the tartness of the cranberries.
  • Salt: A pinch – Enhances the flavors across the board.
  • Chopped Walnuts or Pistachios (optional): 2 tablespoons – For a final crunch and visual flair.

Instructions

  1. Preheat Your Equipment: No oven needed, but get your food processor and a small saucepan ready on the counter.
  2. Combine Ingredients: In your food processor, add feta, cream cheese, and olive oil. Blend until smooth and fluffy, scraping down as needed.
  3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine cranberries, orange juice, zest, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Cook until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens—about 10 minutes.
  4. Assemble the Dish: Spread the whipped feta in your serving dish. Let it chill in the fridge while you prepare the honey.
  5. Cook to Perfection: In a small pan, gently warm the honey and red pepper flakes for 2 minutes. Let steep, then strain if desired.
  6. Finishing Touches: Top the chilled whipped feta with cranberry compote. Drizzle generously with hot honey. Sprinkle chopped nuts or herbs if using.
  7. Serve and Enjoy: Bring out with crackers, crostini, or veggie sticks. Trust me, you’re going to love this.

Notes

  • Use room temperature cheeses for smoother blending.
  • Chill whipped feta before assembling to maintain structure.
  • Make cranberry compote and hot honey a day ahead for deeper flavor.
  • Garnish with fresh herbs or pomegranate seeds for extra flair.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cranberry feta dip, hot honey appetizer, holiday dip, whipped feta spread, vegetarian party snack