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Creamy Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip

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This festive whipped feta dip combines creamy feta and cream cheese with a tangy-sweet cranberry swirl, making it a showstopping 10-minute holiday appetizer. It’s easy to prepare, crowd-pleasing, and perfect for entertaining during the holiday season.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz feta cheese, crumbled (preferably block feta)
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 2 tbsp plain Greek yogurt
  • Zest from 1 small lemon
  • 2 tsp extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 cup whole-berry cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
  • 1 tbsp honey (or maple syrup)
  • Zest from 1 small orange
  • Pinch of cinnamon
  • Fresh rosemary or thyme, finely chopped, for garnish
  • Pomegranate arils (optional), for garnish
  • Crackers, pita chips, or sliced baguette, for serving

Instructions

  1. Set out the feta and cream cheese to come to room temperature for about 5 minutes, or microwave together for 10-15 seconds until softened but not melted.
  2. In a food processor or blender, combine crumbled feta, softened cream cheese, Greek yogurt, lemon zest, and olive oil. Blend for 1-2 minutes, scraping down the sides as needed, until the mixture is ultra-creamy and fluffy.
  3. If the feta mixture is too thick, add an extra tablespoon of yogurt or a splash more olive oil and blend again.
  4. In a small bowl, mix together cranberry sauce, honey, orange zest, and a pinch of cinnamon until well combined. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water or orange juice.
  5. Spread the whipped feta into a serving bowl in an even layer. Use the back of a spoon to create swirls and little wells.
  6. Spoon the cranberry topping over the feta dip and gently swirl it into the top with a spoon or knife. Do not overmix.
  7. Sprinkle with chopped fresh rosemary or thyme and, if desired, pomegranate arils. Optionally, drizzle with extra honey or orange zest.
  8. Serve immediately with crackers, pita chips, or sliced baguette, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours. Let sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving for best texture.

Notes

For best results, use block feta and full-fat cream cheese. If making ahead, store the whipped feta base and cranberry topping separately, then assemble before serving. For a dairy-free or vegan version, use plant-based feta, cream cheese, and yogurt. Serve with gluten-free crackers or veggie sticks for a gluten-free option. If your cranberry sauce is too thin, simmer to thicken before using. The dip can be made up to 1 day ahead and garnished just before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: whipped feta dip, cranberry appetizer, holiday dip, easy appetizer, feta cheese, cream cheese, cranberry sauce, Christmas appetizer, Thanksgiving dip, party snack

Find it online: https://bitematrix.com/creamy-cranberry-whipped-feta-dip-easy-10-minute-holiday-appetizer/