Name: Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 3 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips; 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk; 1/4 cup unsalted butter; 1/4 cup Irish cream-flavored coffee creamer or Irish cream syrup; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/4 tsp salt; Optional: chopped nuts; Optional: chocolate shavings; Optional: sea salt flakes; Optional: white chocolate swirl for topping

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Cranberry whipped feta dip is a vibrant, creamy, and festive appetizer that brings together tangy feta cheese and sweet-tart cranberry sauce in the most delicious way. It’s light, fluffy, and perfectly balanced—ideal for holiday gatherings or when I want something savory and sweet to impress my guests. I love how easy it is to whip up while still looking (and tasting) like something special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this dip because it delivers bold flavor with minimal effort. The whipped feta is ultra creamy with a bit of sharpness, while the cranberry topping adds a gorgeous color and fruity contrast. It’s perfect for dipping warm pita, crackers, or spreading on crostini. I can prep it ahead of time, and it’s always one of the first things to disappear at any party. Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out 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 (for smoothness)
Olive oil
Lemon juice
Garlic (optional, minced or roasted for a milder flavor)
Black pepper

For the cranberry topping:

Fresh or frozen cranberries
Orange juice
Honey or maple syrup
Orange zest
Cinnamon (optional)
Pinch of salt

To serve:

Chopped pistachios or walnuts (optional, for garnish)
Fresh thyme or rosemary (for a festive touch)
Pita chips, toasted baguette slices, or crackers

Directions

I start by making the cranberry topping. In a small saucepan, I simmer cranberries, orange juice, honey, and a bit of zest over medium heat until the berries burst and the mixture thickens, about 10 minutes. I let it cool completely.
While that cools, I blend feta, cream cheese, yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, and garlic in a food processor until smooth and fluffy. I season with a little black pepper to taste.
I spread the whipped feta into a shallow serving bowl or plate.
I spoon the cooled cranberry mixture on top, swirling gently for a marbled look or layering neatly.
I sprinkle with chopped nuts and herbs for texture and a beautiful finish.
I serve it chilled or at room temperature with dippers on the side.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 6–8 appetizer servings. It takes 10 minutes to prep and 10–15 minutes to cook the cranberries, so I usually have it ready in 25 minutes (plus cooling time for the cranberry sauce).

Variations

Sometimes I add roasted garlic to mellow the feta, or I blend in a touch of honey for a slightly sweeter base. I’ve also used store-bought cranberry sauce in a pinch—just loosen it with a little orange juice or zest for brightness. When I want extra texture, I top it with roasted pecans or pomegranate seeds.

Storage/reheating

I store the whipped feta base and cranberry topping separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. I assemble the dip just before serving for the best texture. I don’t reheat it—it’s best served chilled or at room temp. Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip

FAQs

Can I make this dip ahead?

Yes, I often make both components a day ahead and store them separately. I assemble it right before serving for the freshest look and texture.

What kind of feta should I use?

I always use block feta in brine—it’s creamier and less salty than pre-crumbled versions.

Can I use dried cranberries?

Fresh or frozen cranberries work best for the topping. Dried ones don’t break down the same way, but I’ve used them in a pinch by soaking them in hot orange juice first and simmering longer.

Is this dip gluten-free?

Yes, the dip itself is gluten-free. I just make sure to serve it with gluten-free crackers or veggie sticks if needed.

What should I serve it with?

I love serving it with warm pita bread, seeded crackers, crostini, or sliced cucumbers and carrots for a lighter option.

Conclusion

Cranberry whipped feta dip is the perfect blend of creamy, tangy, and sweet—all in one stunning appetizer. I love making it during the holidays or anytime I want a dip that’s both simple and impressive. It’s festive, flavorful, and always a hit with guests. Once I started making this, it became a staple in my seasonal recipe rotation.