Cranberry Honey Whipped Feta Dip with Warm Pita Chips

🧀 Ingredients

For the Whipped Feta Dip

• Feta cheese – 1 cup (about 150 g), crumbled

• Cream cheese – ½ cup (softened)

• Greek yogurt – ¼ cup (optional, for extra creaminess)

• Honey – 2–3 tbsp (adjust to taste)

• Olive oil – 1 tbsp

• Lemon juice – 1 tsp

• Salt – a small pinch (optional, feta is already salty)

For the Cranberry Topping

• Fresh or frozen cranberries – 1 cup

• Honey or maple syrup – ¼ cup

• Orange juice – 2 tbsp

• Orange zest – ½ tsp (optional but recommended)

• Cinnamon – ¼ tsp (optional)

For the Warm Pita Chips

• Pita bread – 4–5 rounds

• Olive oil – 2 tbsp

• Sea salt – to taste

• Fresh thyme or rosemary – ½ tsp (optional)

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Make the Cranberry Topping

1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine cranberries, honey (or maple syrup), orange juice, and zest.

2. Cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cranberries burst and the mixture thickens into a sauce.

3. Stir in cinnamon if using.

4. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

2. Prepare the Whipped Feta

1. In a food processor, combine feta cheese, cream cheese, yogurt, honey, olive oil, and lemon juice.

2. Blend until smooth and creamy (1–2 minutes).

3. Taste and adjust sweetness or salt as needed.

3. Assemble the Dip

1. Spread the whipped feta in a shallow serving bowl.

2. Spoon the cooled cranberry sauce over the center.

3. Drizzle with extra honey and a bit of olive oil for shine.

4. Make the Warm Pita Chips

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Cut pita bread into wedges.

3. Arrange on a baking sheet, brush lightly with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and herbs.

4. Bake for 8–10 minutes until golden and crisp.

5. Serve warm with the dip.

🌟 Tips

• Make the cranberry topping ahead of time and refrigerate; reheat gently before serving.

• For extra crunch, sprinkle chopped toasted walnuts or pistachios on top.

• Pairs well with crackers or fresh veggie sticks too.

❓ Q & A

Q: Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?
A: Yes, but soak them in hot water for 10 minutes first, then simmer with less honey since dried cranberries are sweeter.

Q: Can I make this dip ahead of time?
A: Yes! Prepare the whipped feta and cranberry sauce separately, refrigerate both, and assemble just before serving.

Q: What can I use instead of pita chips?
A: Try toasted baguette slices, naan bread, or even crunchy breadsticks.

Q: Is there a nut-free version?
A: Absolutely—just skip any nut toppings; the dip is delicious on its own.