Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz block feta cheese (brine-packed, drained)
- 2 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil (for whipping)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1–2 teaspoons hot sauce (e.g., cayenne pepper sauce)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or chili flakes)
- Fresh thyme sprigs (for garnish)
Instructions
- Step 1: Drain the feta cheese block and crumble it roughly. Combine the crumbled feta, softened cream cheese, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and the fresh lemon juice in the bowl of a food processor.
- Step 2: Process the mixture on high speed, pausing every 30 seconds to scrape down the sides with a spatula. Continue processing for 2-3 minutes until the feta mixture is completely smooth, airy, and whipped.
- Step 3: Prepare the hot honey topping: In a small saucepan, combine the honey, hot sauce, and red pepper flakes. Heat the mixture gently over low heat for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally until the ingredients are warm and fully incorporated. Remove from heat.
- Step 4: Transfer the whipped feta mixture to a shallow serving dish or small bowl. Use the back of a spoon to create an indentation or swirling pattern on the surface.
- Step 5: Immediately and generously drizzle the prepared hot honey mixture over the top of the whipped feta. Garnish with a few fresh thyme sprigs and serve immediately with crusty bread or pita chips.
Notes
- Store leftover whipped feta (without the hot honey topping) in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; the texture will firm up significantly when chilled.
- If serving chilled leftovers, allow the feta dip to sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes before serving to soften the texture, and reheat the hot honey gently on the stove until just warm.
- For a sophisticated pairing, serve the dip alongside apple slices, roasted grapes, or crisp endive leaves to balance the rich, spicy sweetness.
- Ensure your feta is brine-packed and your cream cheese is very soft; this combination, along with the tablespoon of olive oil, is critical for achieving that ultra-smooth, airy, whipped texture in the food processor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American