Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dip is a showstopper—visually stunning, full of bold flavor, and easy to make in under 15 minutes. The whipped feta base is ultra-creamy and savory, while the cranberry topping adds seasonal flair and fruity contrast. The final drizzle of hot honey delivers just enough warmth to keep every bite interesting. It’s ideal for holiday parties, potlucks, or a cozy night in with a charcuterie board.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the whipped feta:
feta cheese (block style, not crumbled)
cream cheese (softened)
Greek yogurt or sour cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
lemon juice
olive oil
black pepper
For the cranberry topping:
cranberry sauce (homemade or canned)
orange zest (optional, for brightness)
chopped fresh rosemary or thyme (optional)
For the hot honey drizzle:
honey
red pepper flakes
(optional: a dash of cayenne or chili powder for more heat)
For serving:
crackers, crostini, pita chips, or sliced baguette
fresh herbs (for garnish)
Directions
- Make the whipped feta: In a food processor, combine feta, cream cheese, Greek yogurt (if using), lemon juice, olive oil, and a pinch of black pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. Scrape down the sides as needed.
- Spread the dip: Transfer whipped feta to a shallow serving bowl or plate and use the back of a spoon to create swirls or a well in the center.
- Add cranberry topping: Spoon cranberry sauce over the center of the dip. Sprinkle with orange zest and fresh herbs if using.
- Make the hot honey: In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, warm honey with red pepper flakes until just bubbly—about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Let it cool slightly, then drizzle generously over the cranberry topping.
- Garnish and serve: Top with more fresh herbs if desired. Serve with crackers, crostini, or veggies.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 6–8 as an appetizer and takes about 10 minutes to prepare. No cooking is required if using pre-made cranberry sauce.
Variations
- Make it sweeter: Add a little extra honey if you prefer a sweeter contrast.
- Use goat cheese: Mix in a portion of goat cheese for added tang.
- Swap the topping: Try fig jam, cherry preserves, or roasted red peppers instead of cranberry.
- Add crunch: Top with toasted nuts like walnuts or pecans for texture.
- Make it spicy: Add a splash of hot sauce to the feta mixture or use more chili flakes in the honey.
Storage/Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Bring to room temperature before serving again for the best texture. The hot honey can be made ahead and stored separately, then rewarmed before serving.
FAQs
Can I use crumbled feta?
Block feta is best for smooth blending, but crumbled feta will work in a pinch—just make sure it’s high-quality and not too dry.
Is this dip spicy?
The hot honey has a gentle kick. Adjust the chili flakes to make it milder or spicier.
Can I make it ahead?
Yes! Whip the feta and refrigerate it. Assemble with toppings just before serving.
Can I use leftover cranberry sauce?
Absolutely—this recipe is perfect for using up holiday leftovers.
Can I make this without a food processor?
You can use a hand mixer or blender, but a food processor gives the smoothest texture.
What’s the best type of honey to use?
Regular clover honey works well, but raw or local honey adds extra depth.
How long does the dip last?
Up to 3 days refrigerated, but best enjoyed within 24 hours for the freshest flavor.
Can I serve this warm?
It’s best served at room temperature, but you can warm the whipped feta slightly if desired.
What herbs pair well?
Rosemary, thyme, or parsley all add great flavor and color.
Is this gluten-free?
Yes, the dip itself is gluten-free—just serve it with gluten-free crackers or veggies.
Conclusion
Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip with Hot Honey Drizzle is the ultimate blend of creamy, sweet, salty, and spicy. It’s festive, easy to prepare, and sure to impress at any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or just want a simple yet elegant snack, this dip brings bold flavor and beautiful presentation to the table with minimal effort.
PrintCranberry Whipped Feta Dip with Hot Honey Drizzle
Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip with Hot Honey Drizzle is a creamy, tangy, and festive appetizer made with whipped feta, sweet-tart cranberry sauce, and a warm drizzle of spicy honey. It’s perfect for holidays, parties, or a simple elegant snack.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- For the whipped feta:
- 1 block feta cheese (about 8 oz), crumbled
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp Greek yogurt or sour cream (optional)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Black pepper, to taste
- For the cranberry topping:
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or canned)
- 1 tsp orange zest (optional)
- 1 tsp chopped fresh rosemary or thyme (optional)
- For the hot honey:
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- Optional: pinch of cayenne or chili powder
- For serving:
- Crackers, crostini, or pita chips
- Fresh herbs (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- In a food processor, combine feta, cream cheese, Greek yogurt (if using), lemon juice, olive oil, and black pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.
- Transfer whipped feta to a shallow bowl or plate. Spread and create swirls or a well in the center.
- Spoon cranberry sauce over the top and sprinkle with orange zest and fresh herbs, if using.
- In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, heat honey with red pepper flakes until just warm and slightly bubbly (about 30 seconds to 1 minute). Let cool slightly.
- Drizzle hot honey over the cranberry topping.
- Garnish with more herbs if desired. Serve with crackers or crostini.
Notes
- Use block feta for the smoothest texture; crumbled feta can be dry.
- Adjust chili flakes for more or less spice in the honey.
- Dip can be made ahead and topped just before serving.
- Try fig jam or cherry preserves as an alternative to cranberry.
- Top with toasted nuts for added crunch.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 2 tbsp
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
