Dessert

The Best Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip (Holiday Recipe!) Recipe

ByLana Polati November 16, 2025November 16, 2025

Introduction

This cranberry whipped feta dip is a festive, creamy appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings. The tangy feta pairs beautifully with a sweet-tart cranberry compote, offering a delightful burst of flavor in every bite.

A round white bowl holds a dip with three layers: the bottom layer is thick and creamy white, the middle layer is a glossy dark red fruit jam spread unevenly in a circle, and the top layer is sprinkled with chopped green and golden pistachios. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface surrounded by small slices of light golden toasted bread on one side and a striped black and white cloth on the other. In the upper right corner, there is a small white bowl with more chopped pistachios on a round wooden coaster. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups frozen or fresh cranberries
1/4 cup maple syrup
Zest and juice of one orange
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
225 g (8 oz) feta cheese, about 1 1/2 cups crumbled feta
1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
1/4 tsp chili flakes
2 tbsp olive oil
1/4 cup chopped pistachios
1-2 tbsp honey for drizzling
Fresh thyme leaves, optional

Instructions

Step 1: In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, maple syrup, orange zest, orange juice, and nutmeg. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
Step 2: Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 6 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens to a jam-like consistency. Remove from heat and let it cool.
Step 3: In a food processor, blend the feta cheese, Greek yogurt, chili flakes, and olive oil on high speed until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, use an immersion blender for this step.
Step 4: To assemble, spread the whipped feta in a shallow bowl. Spoon the cooled cranberry compote over the top, then sprinkle with chopped pistachios. Drizzle with honey and garnish with fresh thyme leaves if using.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh thyme or rosemary for an herbaceous twist to complement the sweetness.
For a milder dip, reduce or omit the chili flakes.
Substitute pistachios with toasted walnuts or pecans for different textures and flavors.
Serve with warm pita bread, crisp crackers, or fresh vegetable sticks for easy dipping.

Storage

Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the cranberry compote separate if possible to prevent sogginess. Reheat the compote gently before serving, and stir well. The feta mixture is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature.

How to Serve

A close-up image shows a woman's hand holding a small piece of light beige bread with some creamy white spread mixed with bright red berry sauce and bits of green pistachio on it. The bread is being dipped into a white bowl containing three visible layers: a thick white creamy base at the bottom, a middle layer of dark red berry sauce with whole berries and seeds giving it a chunky texture, and sprinkled chopped pistachios on top adding green and yellow contrast. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with a striped cloth partly visible nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare both the cranberry compote and whipped feta a day in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator and assemble just before serving for best texture and flavor.

Is this dip suitable for vegans?

Traditional feta and Greek yogurt are dairy products, so this recipe is not vegan. However, you could try using plant-based feta and yogurt alternatives to make a vegan version.