Meet your new party favorite: Whipped Feta Crostini with Hot Honey. Imagine a creamy, tangy cloud of feta and cream cheese whipped to perfection, spread over golden, crisp crostini, and finished with a dazzling drizzle of sweet-and-spicy hot honey. This appetizer is a flavor roller coaster in every bite — salty, creamy, crunchy, and just the right amount of heat. It’s an easy yet elegant way to wow a crowd, and it comes together in no time. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a snack that packs a punch, Whipped Feta Crostini with Hot Honey hits all the right notes for taste and presentation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Whipped Feta Crostini with Hot Honey is all about using simple, quality ingredients, each one playing its own unique role. From cloudlike whipped cheese to crusty crostini and a sticky-hot drizzle, every piece brings something special to the table.
- Feta Cheese (8 oz, crumbled): Delivers that crave-worthy tang and signature saltiness — authentic Greek-style works best!
- Cream Cheese (3 oz, softened): Gives the whipped feta extra creaminess and makes it spread like butter.
- Olive Oil (1 tablespoon for feta, 2 tablespoons for crostini): Adds richness, a silky texture to the whip, and gorgeous color to your crostini.
- Lemon Juice (1 teaspoon): Brightens up the cheese spread, balancing out all the rich flavors.
- Black Pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Gives just a whisper of peppery heat to round everything out.
- Baguette (1, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds): The perfect vessel for piling on that creamy spread — look for a crusty, fresh loaf.
- Honey (1/4 cup): Creates the sweet foundation for your sticky, spicy hot honey drizzle.
- Red Pepper Flakes (1/2–1 teaspoon, to taste): Let your heat tolerance be your guide; they’re the spark behind the hot honey magic.
How to Make Whipped Feta Crostini with Hot Honey
Step 1: Bake the Crostini
Start by firing up your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lay your baguette slices out on a baking sheet in a single layer. Brush both sides lightly with olive oil for a perfectly golden, crispy crunch. Bake for 8–10 minutes, flipping each slice halfway through until both sides are beautifully toasted. Let the crostini cool slightly before adding toppings so they stay crisp.
Step 2: Make the Whipped Feta
In a food processor, combine your crumbled feta, softened cream cheese, olive oil, lemon juice, and black pepper. Blend until the mixture is irresistibly smooth and fluffy, scraping down the sides to make sure every bit is creamy perfection. Chill the whipped feta in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble — this helps the flavors meld and sets the perfect texture.
Step 3: Infuse the Hot Honey
Pour the honey and red pepper flakes into a small saucepan, and gently warm it over low heat for 2–3 minutes. Stir now and then, just until the honey is thin and the chili flavors can start mingling. Remove from heat and let the honey sit for 5–10 minutes — the longer it rests, the spicier it will get. Strain out the pepper flakes if you like a smoother drizzle, or leave them in for extra boldness.
Step 4: Assemble the Crostini
Now for the best part! Spread a generous spoonful of whipped feta onto each crostini, making sure you go right up to the edges for maximum flavor in every bite. Drizzle with the warm, freshly infused hot honey and serve immediately, so everything stays crisp and vibrant.
How to Serve Whipped Feta Crostini with Hot Honey
Garnishes
Dress up your Whipped Feta Crostini with Hot Honey with a sprinkle of chopped pistachios for crunch, fresh herbs like thyme or mint for color and brightness, or even roasted grapes to add a sweet, juicy bite. Edible flowers or a twist of lemon zest also make a stunning finishing touch for extra wow-factor on your appetizer platter.
Side Dishes
Pair these crostini with fresh, vibrant salads, crisp crudité platters, or Mediterranean favorites like olives and marinated artichokes. They make a fabulous starter to grilled fish or roasted veggies, and are just as good alongside a board of more cheeses, fruit, and charcuterie for snack-style entertaining.
Creative Ways to Present
Go beyond the classic platter and try serving Whipped Feta Crostini with Hot Honey in a rustic bread basket lined with parchment, or staggered on a wooden board for an artisanal touch. For more formal affairs, plate each crostini with a tiny dollop of extra hot honey and a micro-herb garnish. You can also let guests build their own at a DIY crostini bar — set out the whipped feta, crostini, hot honey, and toppings for interactive fun.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover Whipped Feta Crostini with Hot Honey (though it’s unlikely!), store the whipped feta and hot honey separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Keep the toasted crostini at room temperature in a sealed bag or tin to maintain crispness. Assemble just before eating to enjoy the ideal texture and flavor.
Freezing
While the whipped feta itself can be frozen (store in an airtight container for up to a month), the baguette slices are best enjoyed freshly toasted. Freeze any unassembled toasted crostini for up to two weeks, then recrisp in a warm oven. Avoid freezing hot honey, as it can crystallize and change texture.
Reheating
To bring crostini back to life, crisp them in a 350°F oven for 3–5 minutes. The whipped feta should be served chilled for the creamiest texture; just give it a quick stir if it’s been in the fridge. Gently warm the hot honey on low heat before drizzling, so it flows easily and coats each bite nicely.
FAQs
Can I use a different bread for the crostini?
Absolutely! While baguette gives the perfect crunch and chew, you can swap in any artisan loaf, ciabatta, or even sourdough. Just slice to about 1/2 inch and bake as directed for a great base.
What can I use instead of cream cheese in the whipped feta?
If you prefer something lighter, try whole milk Greek yogurt for a tangy, creamy finish. Mascarpone makes it extra luxe, or you could double down on feta for a stronger, saltier kick.
How spicy is the hot honey?
The beauty of hot honey is you control the heat. Start with 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes for a gentle warmth, or crank it up to a full teaspoon (or more!) if you love a bold kick. Straining the flakes also mellows the spice.
Can whipped feta be made ahead of time?
Definitely! Whip up your feta up to two days ahead and store it tightly covered in the refrigerator. Give it a quick stir before using to revive the fluffiness, and you’re ready for hassle-free entertaining.
What other toppings can I add to Whipped Feta Crostini with Hot Honey?
Get creative! Toasted nuts, sliced grapes, pickled shallots, pomegranate seeds, sun-dried tomatoes, or a pinch of za’atar all bring extra flavor, color, and texture to your crostini platter. It’s the perfect excuse to use up what’s in your pantry or fridge.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to spark some serious appetizer envy, make these Whipped Feta Crostini with Hot Honey a staple at your next gathering. The flavors and textures are endlessly fun to play with, and they’re every bit as easy as they are impressive. I promise, once you try them, you’ll find yourself craving this irresistible combination again and again!
Print
Whipped Feta Crostini with Hot Honey Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 20 crostini 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the perfect blend of creamy whipped feta, zesty lemon, and a touch of heat from hot honey atop crispy crostini. These appetizers are a delightful balance of flavors that will elevate any gathering.
Ingredients
For the Whipped Feta:
- 8 oz feta cheese, crumbled
- 3 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Crostini:
- 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Hot Honey:
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/2–1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to heat preference)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet and brush both sides lightly with olive oil. Bake for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp. Let cool slightly.
- In a food processor, blend feta, cream cheese, olive oil, lemon juice, and black pepper until smooth and creamy. Scrape down sides as needed. Chill until ready to use.
- To make hot honey, warm the honey and red pepper flakes in a small saucepan over low heat for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and let infuse for 5–10 minutes. Strain if desired.
- To assemble, spread a spoonful of whipped feta onto each crostini. Drizzle with warm hot honey and serve immediately.
Notes
- Add toppings like chopped pistachios, fresh herbs, or roasted grapes for extra flair.
- Whipped feta can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking, Blending
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 crostini
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
