If you’re looking for a dip that will completely steal the show at your next gathering, Whipped Feta with Hot Honey is about to become your new obsession! It’s creamy, tangy, and salty with a luxurious whipped texture—all mingling under a spicy-sweet drizzle of hot honey and a shower of savory toppings that send every bite over the top.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Unbelievable Creaminess: Whipping feta with yogurt and olive oil takes this cheese dip to cloud-like perfection.
- Sweet & Spicy Finish: The hot honey drizzle is addictive, offering a magical balance of heat and sweetness over the salty feta.
- Showstopper Presentation: The colorful toppings and drizzle make this a dish that looks as irresistible as it tastes.
- Ready in 20 Minutes: This crowd-pleaser comes together lightning fast for last-minute gatherings or cozy nights in.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All you need are a handful of fresh, vibrant ingredients to let Whipped Feta with Hot Honey truly shine. Each one is carefully chosen for maximum impact—bringing out the best flavors, textures, and colors in every luscious scoop.
- Feta Cheese (8oz block): Choose a quality block of feta—the better the cheese, the silkier and more flavorful your dip will be.
- Greek Yogurt (1/3 cup): Adds tanginess and helps whip the feta into pillowy smoothness.
- Lemon Juice (1/4 cup): Delivers brightness and a fresh, citrusy snap that counterbalances the richness.
- Olive Oil (3 tbsp + 2 tbsp for topping): Gives body to the dip and finishes it off with a glossy, savory drizzle.
- Salt & Pepper (1/2 tsp each): Basic, but essential for bringing out all those savory, cheesy flavors.
- Scallions (1 bunch): Their mellow onion bite makes the topping extra irresistible; only use the white and pale green parts.
- Garlic (3 cloves): Toasted with olive oil for a fragrant, golden flavor bomb on top.
- Almonds (1/2 cup, chopped): For crunch and a subtle nutty flavor in every bite.
- Red Pepper Flakes (1 tbsp): Bring in gentle heat, mingling perfectly with the honey’s sweetness.
- Hot Honey (1/4 cup): The grand finale! Spicy, sweet, and utterly crave-worthy.
Variations
This is one of those versatile recipes you’ll keep coming back to because it’s endlessly adaptable. Feel free to tweak your Whipped Feta with Hot Honey to suit your own taste buds or whatever’s in the fridge!
- Nut-Free: Omit the almonds or swap for roasted sunflower or pumpkin seeds for a delicious, allergy-friendly crunch.
- Vegan: Use a vegan feta and plant-based yogurt—you’ll still get plenty of creamy, tangy goodness!
- Herb Upgrade: Add fresh dill, parsley, or basil to your whipped feta for a bright, herby kick.
- Make It Milder: Use regular honey instead of hot honey, or cut the red pepper flakes if you prefer things less spicy.
How to Make Whipped Feta with Hot Honey
Step 1: Whip the Feta Mixture
Add the block of feta, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and olive oil to your food processor. Blend until smooth, pausing once or twice to scrape down the sides—watch as it transforms from crumbly to unbelievably fluffy and creamy. Once whipped, stir in the salt and pepper for just the right amount of seasoning.
Step 2: Prepare the Toppings
In a small saucepan, gently heat the remaining olive oil over medium-high. Toss in your scallions and garlic, letting them soften and sizzle for about 5–6 minutes until beautifully fragrant and golden brown. This step adds such depth—don’t rush it! Take the pan off the heat once they’re caramelized to perfection.
Step 3: Assemble and Finish
Spoon the dreamy whipped feta into a serving bowl, smoothing it into soft peaks. Pile the garlicky scallion mixture (and any remaining olive oil) on top. Scatter with chopped almonds for that irresistible crunch, dust with red pepper flakes, then finish with a generous drizzle of hot honey. Each topping adds flavor, texture, and a pop of color!
Step 4: Serve and Swoon
This Whipped Feta with Hot Honey is irresistible served with crisp crostini, warm pita, crackers, or fresh veggies. The sweet heat from the honey and the creamy feta will have everyone coming back for more—guaranteed!
Pro Tips for Making Whipped Feta with Hot Honey
- Choose the Best Feta: Always go for a block of feta packed in brine—pre-crumbled feta can lead to a grainier dip and less authentic flavor.
- Room Temperature Magic: Let your feta and yogurt come to room temperature before blending; this guarantees a smoother, creamier result with no lumps.
- Custom Hot Honey: Make your own hot honey by gently warming honey with red pepper flakes for a personalized level of heat and spice.
- Crostini Ready: To add even more flavor, try brushing your crostini with olive oil and toasting them until golden—perfect for scooping up every last bit of feta and honey.
How to Serve Whipped Feta with Hot Honey
Garnishes
For a truly striking finish, garnish your Whipped Feta with Hot Honey with an extra swirl of olive oil, a sprinkle of toasted almonds, a flurry of fresh chopped herbs (like dill or parsley), and a pinch more red pepper flakes if you adore the heat. Each element adds freshness or crunch for the perfect bite.
Side Dishes
Pair your Whipped Feta with Hot Honey with crisp crostini, pita chips, or even sliced cucumber and bell pepper for a lighter touch. It’s also incredible alongside grilled meats, roasted veggies, or as the anchor of a vibrant mezze board.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your whipped feta in a rustic shallow bowl, or try spooning it onto a wooden board with toppings artfully scattered. For parties, make mini versions in individual glasses with veggie sticks or even swirl it onto crostini rounds for the ultimate passed appetizer.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Whipped Feta with Hot Honey in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and creamy for up to four days, making it a fabulous make-ahead dip for easy snacking or entertaining.
Freezing
It’s best not to freeze Whipped Feta with Hot Honey, as both dairy and toppings can change in texture after thawing. The freshness is a huge part of its allure—so make and enjoy within a few days.
Reheating
No need to reheat! Whipped feta is best served chilled or at cool room temperature. If it’s straight from the fridge and a bit firm, give it a good stir and let it sit out for 15 minutes before topping and serving again.
FAQs
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Can I use pre-crumbled feta in this recipe?
While you can, a block of feta delivers creamier results. Pre-crumbled feta is drier and sometimes coated in anti-caking agents, which can make the dip less silky and flavorful.
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What if I don’t have hot honey?
You can quickly make your own by combining regular honey with a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce—simply warm gently until infused.
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Is there a way to make this recipe ahead for a party?
Absolutely! You can prepare the whipped feta and toppings in advance. Store separately, and assemble with hot honey and garnishes just before serving for optimal freshness and wow factor.
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Can I make Whipped Feta with Hot Honey without a food processor?
Yes, but you’ll need some elbow grease. Use a sturdy fork or hand mixer to whip the feta and yogurt—just be patient as the texture may be slightly more rustic than with a food processor.
Final Thoughts
This Whipped Feta with Hot Honey is truly an entertainer’s dream—simple, stunning, and packed with flavor that will have your friends and family scraping the bowl clean. Give it a try at your next gathering or as a treat for yourself; you’ll quickly understand why this dip is downright legendary!
Print
Whipped Feta with Hot Honey Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 cups 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Mixing, Sautéing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the creamy goodness of whipped feta paired with the sweet heat of hot honey in this delectable appetizer. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for entertaining or as a special treat for yourself.
Ingredients
For the Whipped Feta:
- 8oz block feta cheese
- 1/3 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
Toppings:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 bunch scallions, chopped (stringy tops discarded)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup almonds, chopped small
- 1 tbsp red pepper flakes
- 1/4 cup hot honey
Instructions
- Prepare the Whipped Feta: In a food processor, combine feta, yogurt, lemon juice, and olive oil. Blend until smooth and fluffy. Season with salt and pepper.
- Prepare the Toppings: In a saucepan, sauté scallions and garlic in olive oil until browned. Set aside.
- Assemble: Transfer whipped feta to a serving bowl. Top with sautéed scallions and garlic. Add almonds, red pepper flakes, and drizzle with hot honey.
- Serve: Enjoy with crostini.
Notes
- This dish can be customized with additional toppings like fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika for extra flavor.
- Adjust the amount of hot honey based on your desired level of heat.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 460mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
