I first made whipped feta with honey when I was craving a simple yet special appetizer after a long day. It surprised me how easy and comforting it was to pull together, with creamy, tangy feta and warm, garlic herb olives that feel like a little celebration on your plate. This whipped feta with honey recipe quickly became my go-to for stress-free gatherings and cozy nights in.
Table of Contents
whipped feta with honey
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 450° F. In a baking dish, combine olives, olive oil, garlic, shallot, lemon, thyme, oregano, and chili flakes. Bake for 20-25 minutes until garlic is golden and oil is sizzling.
- Combine feta, cream cheese, honey, and black pepper in a food processor. Pulse until smooth and creamy.
- Spoon the whipped feta into a serving bowl, top with warm olives, and serve with bread or crackers.
Notes
Why You’ll Love This Foolproof Recipe
- Incredibly fast to make, ready in under 30 minutes
- Perfectly creamy every single time — no grainy textures here!
- Super versatile for any occasion, from casual snacks to dinner parties
- Looks and tastes gourmet with minimal effort
What is Whipped Feta Dip?
Whipped feta dip is a creamy, airy spread made by blending feta cheese until smooth and fluffy. Its rich texture combines the salty, tangy, and savory flavors of feta, making it a crowd-pleasing appetizer or condiment that elevates any simple meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 cups mixed olives, pitted
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 6 cloves garlic, smashed
- 1 shallot, quartered
- 1 lemon, quartered
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- 2 sprigs fresh oregano
- Chili flakes (to taste)
- 1 cup (8 ounces) crumbled feta cheese
- 3 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
- 2-3 tablespoons honey
- Black pepper (to taste)
A Note on Your Feta
Using block feta packed in brine is key to achieving the creamiest whipped texture. Block feta holds more moisture than pre-crumbled feta, which tends to be drier and grainier. Starting with block feta means your dip will be smooth, rich, and perfectly creamy every time. Feta cheese can be a nutritious choice when eaten in moderation, offering protein, calcium, and other beneficial nutrients.
How to Make Whipped Feta with Honey and Roasted Olives
- Preheat the oven to 450° F. In a baking dish, combine the olives, olive oil, garlic, shallot, lemon, thyme, oregano, and a big pinch of chili flakes. Bake 20-25 minutes until the garlic turns golden and the oil is sizzling. This process is similar to how we achieve perfectly roasted vegetables in our foolproof roasted vegetables recipe.
- Whip the feta. Combine the crumbled feta, cream cheese, honey, and black pepper in a food processor. Pulse until you have a creamy, smooth texture with no lumps, about 2-3 minutes. You can keep the whipped feta in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Serve. Spoon the whipped feta into a serving bowl and top with the warm roasted olives. Enjoy with bread or crackers.
Tips for the Creamiest, Most Flavorful Whipped Feta
- Use room temperature cream cheese and feta so they blend smoothly without chunks
- Choose full-fat dairy for richness and that luscious, creamy texture
- Don’t under-whip; blend until completely smooth for the best mouthfeel
Troubleshooting
What if my dip is too thick?
Add a splash of milk or a teaspoon of olive oil and pulse again to loosen it up.
What if my dip is too salty?
Balance saltiness by adding a little more cream cheese or a bit of Greek yogurt to mellow the flavor.
Creative Flavor Variations
- Spicy Hot Honey & Pistachio: Drizzle hot honey over the whipped feta and sprinkle with crushed pistachios for a sweet-heat crunch.
- Lemon, Herb & Toasted Pine Nuts: Stir in fresh lemon zest and chopped herbs, then top with toasted pine nuts for a bright, nutty twist.
- Savory Fig & Balsamic Glaze: Add dollops of fig jam and a drizzle of balsamic glaze to the whipped feta for deep, savory sweetness.
How to Make Whipped Feta Without a Food Processor
- Using a high-speed blender: Break feta into chunks and combine with cream cheese and honey. Pulse in short bursts until smooth, scraping down sides as needed.
- Using a hand mixer: Soften cheeses at room temperature. Place in a bowl and beat on medium-high speed, stopping occasionally to scrape down sides until the mixture is fluffy and lump-free.
What to Serve with Whipped Feta with Honey
Breads & Crackers
- Warm, soft naan is perfect for scooping.
- Crisp pita chips add satisfying crunch.
- Homemade rosemary crackers from Aisha Recipes make a flavorful pairing.
Fresh Vegetables
- Crisp cucumber slices offer a refreshing, low-carb crunch.
- Sweet bell pepper strips add color and sweetness.
- Cherry tomatoes lend juicy bursts with each bite.
Fruits
- Juicy figs or grapes complement the salty tang of the feta.
- Sliced ripe pears add elegant sweetness.
- Fresh apple slices offer a crisp contrast.
Storage and Make-Ahead Instructions
Store leftover whipped feta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavor will deepen, making it even more delicious. You can prepare the whipped feta dip up to 3 days ahead. Keep it chilled and give it a quick stir before serving to refresh the texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my whipped feta grainy?
Graininess is usually caused by cold ingredients or using crumbly, dry feta. Room temperature cheeses and block feta packed in brine help prevent this.
Can I use a different cheese instead of feta?
Yes, but the flavor and texture will differ. Creamier cheeses like goat cheese or ricotta can be whipped similarly but will change the profile.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
| Substitute | Texture Impact | Flavor Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Greek Yogurt | Slightly thinner, tangier | Adds bright, fresh flavor |
| Sour Cream | Creamy, but less firm | Mellow and slightly tangy |
| Mascarpone | Richer and silkier | Adds a mild, buttery sweetness |
Conclusion
This whipped feta with honey and garlic herb roasted olives recipe proves that simple ingredients can make an impressive dish. It’s quick, comforting, and perfect for any occasion. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you—drop a comment below with your questions, share your favorite flavor twist, or tag me in your photos. Let’s keep making the kitchen fun and approachable together!
