Dessert

Easy Whipped Feta Dip with Cranberries Recipe

ByCharlotte Montgomery January 4, 2026January 4, 2026

Introduction

This Easy Whipped Feta Dip with Cranberries is a delightful blend of creamy and tangy flavors with a hint of sweetness. Perfect for holiday gatherings or as a stylish appetizer, it combines smooth feta, vibrant cranberry jam, and crunchy pistachios for a crowd-pleasing treat.

This image shows a white bowl with a dark rim, filled with three main layers. The bottom layer is a creamy white yogurt or cheese, smooth and thick, covering the whole base. Spread unevenly on top is a bright red fruit sauce, which is chunky with bits of fruit, creating a vibrant contrast. Scattered on the top are chopped green pistachio nuts adding texture and pops of green color. A few small fresh green mint leaves are placed on top, adding a natural look. There's a plain round cracker partly dipped in the mixture on the right side inside the bowl. The bowl is sitting on a white marbled surface, with some small pieces of pistachio and a cracker nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups frozen or fresh cranberries
1/4 cup maple syrup
1/4 cup orange juice
1/8 tsp nutmeg
4 oz block feta cheese in brine (drained)
1/2 cup cottage cheese
2 tbsp olive oil
Splash of water
1/4 cup chopped pistachios
1–2 tbsp honey to drizzle
Fresh thyme (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, maple syrup, orange juice, and nutmeg. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer for 6–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens to a jam-like consistency. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
Step 2: In a food processor, blend the feta cheese, cottage cheese, and a splash of water until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, use an immersion blender for this step.
Step 3: Spread the whipped feta in a shallow serving bowl. Spoon the cooled cranberry mixture on top, sprinkle with chopped pistachios, then drizzle generously with honey. Garnish with fresh thyme if desired.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh cranberries when in season for a brighter flavor, or frozen if not available.
For a nuttier twist, substitute pistachios with toasted walnuts or pecans.
Add a pinch of chili flakes to the cranberry jam for a subtle spicy kick.
If the dip is too thick, blend in a bit more olive oil or water to reach your preferred consistency.
Serve with pita chips, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetable sticks for a versatile snack.

Storage

Store the dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the cranberry topping separate until ready to serve to maintain freshness. Reheat the cranberry mixture gently if preferred warm, but serve the whipped feta chilled.

How to Serve

A white bowl filled with a thick white creamy base, topped with a bright red chunky fruit compote that is spread unevenly across the surface. Scattered over the red compote are small pieces of chopped green pistachios and a few fresh green mint leaves. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface, near three plain round crackers and a wooden board with more chopped pistachios and a white flower with a pink center. A small white ceramic dish with honey and a glass of orange juice are 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, prepare the cranberry jam and whipped feta separately in advance. Store them in airtight containers and assemble just before serving for best texture and flavor.