Dessert

Christmas Feta with Pomegranate, Candied Nuts, and Fresh Herbs Recipe

ByClara Bennett January 4, 2026January 4, 2026

Introduction

This Christmas Feta spread is a festive and flavorful appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings. Creamy, tangy feta blended with honey and cream cheese creates a smooth base, topped with vibrant pomegranate seeds and candied nuts for extra crunch and sweetness.

The image shows a round wooden board with a black bowl placed on the right side filled with thick white yogurt topped with a layer of honey, red pomegranate seeds, chopped walnuts, and some herbs. Surrounding the bowl, there are thin slices of toasted bread stacked in a semi-circle on the lower left side. Above the bread, multiple slices of red and green apple are neatly arranged in two layers, fanning outwards. Green eucalyptus leaves lie around the board on a dark, textured surface, and a black spoon with a long handle rests inside the bowl. The setup is on a white marbled background with a red cloth napkin partially visible on the right side. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

8-ounce block of feta cheese
1 small clove garlic (or half if sensitive to garlic)
2 ounces cream cheese
2 tablespoons honey
Pomegranate seeds
Candied nuts (such as pecans or walnuts)
Thyme leaves
Freshly ground black pepper
Orange or lemon zest

Instructions

Step 1: In a food processor, pulse the feta cheese, garlic, cream cheese, and honey until the mixture is very smooth.
Step 2: Transfer the mixture to a serving plate and use the back of a spoon to create swoops or decorative patterns on the surface.
Step 3: Sprinkle pomegranate seeds, candied nuts, and thyme leaves evenly over the top.
Step 4: Add a few turns of freshly ground black pepper and zest of orange or lemon for brightness.
Step 5: Drizzle a little extra honey on top before serving for added sweetness.

Tips & Variations

For a nut-free version, substitute candied nuts with toasted seeds or omit them altogether.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle spicy kick.
Honey can be warmed slightly to drizzle more easily.
Serve with crusty bread, crackers, or fresh vegetable slices for dipping.

Storage

Store the feta spread covered in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best flavor and texture, allow it to come to room temperature before serving. Garnishes are best added fresh before serving.

How to Serve

A black bowl sits on a white marbled surface, filled with a smooth white creamy base topped with scattered small red pomegranate seeds and chopped light brown walnuts, with some tiny green herb pieces sprinkled throughout. Around the bowl, there are multiple slices of toasted bread showing a golden brown color and crunchy texture, arranged casually on the surface. In the background, there are slices of green and red apples placed out of focus. A few green leaves peek in from the edges of the frame. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this feta spread ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the spread up to 2 days in advance and refrigerate it. Add the toppings just before serving to keep them fresh and vibrant.

What are candied nuts?

Candied nuts are nuts coated in sugar or honey and baked until caramelized. They add a sweet crunch and can be made at home or found pre-packaged in stores.