This creamy, tangy dip Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip is a must-have for any holiday gathering. With its smooth cream cheese base and vibrant cranberry topping, it perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors. Serve it warm with crackers or sliced baguette for a delightful appetizer that will have everyone coming back for more.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It’s a festive appetizer perfect for holiday celebrations.
The combination of creamy cheese and tart cranberries is irresistible.
Quick and easy to prepare with just 30 minutes from start to finish.
Easily customizable with nuts or other toppings.
A crowd-pleaser that pairs beautifully with various dippers.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
cream cheese, softened
sour cream
honey or maple syrup
vanilla extract
fresh or frozen cranberries
sugar
water
lemon juice
ground cinnamon
chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Directions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare the Cream Cheese Base
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract. Beat the mixture until smooth and creamy. Spread it evenly into a greased 9-inch baking dish or pie dish.
Make the Cranberry Sauce
In a small saucepan, mix cranberries, sugar, water, lemon juice, and cinnamon. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens, about 10-12 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Assemble the Dip
Spoon the cranberry sauce over the cream cheese layer, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the top if desired.
Bake the Dip
Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are bubbly and the dip is warmed through.
Serve
Serve warm with crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetables for dipping.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 8
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
Nut-Free: Skip the nuts for a smoother dip.
Herbal Twist: Add a touch of fresh thyme or rosemary to the cranberry sauce for an earthy flavor.
Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes to the cranberry sauce for heat.
Cheese Blend: Substitute half of the cream cheese with goat cheese for extra tanginess.
Citrus Flavor: Add orange zest to the cranberry sauce for a zesty twist.
Storage/Reheating
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warm. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring as needed.
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FAQs
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cream cheese layer and cranberry sauce separately. Assemble just before baking to ensure the best texture and flavor.
Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh or frozen?
Dried cranberries won’t work as well in the sauce since they lack the moisture and tartness needed for the recipe. Stick with fresh or frozen for best results.
What can I serve with this dip?
I like to serve it with crackers, sliced baguette, or even pretzels for a mix of textures. Fresh vegetable sticks like celery and carrot also work great.
Can I make this dip dairy-free?
Yes, substitute the cream cheese and sour cream with dairy-free alternatives to make the recipe suitable for those avoiding dairy.
Is it possible to freeze this dip?
I don’t recommend freezing this dip as the cream cheese layer might become grainy when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or reheated from the fridge.
Conclusion
Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip is a show-stopping appetizer that brings festive flair to any table. The creamy base and tangy cranberry topping make it a harmonious blend of flavors that’s sure to please. Whether for a party or a quiet evening, this dip is easy to make, delightful to eat, and bound to become a holiday tradition.
📖 Recipe:
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Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A festive holiday appetizer, this Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip combines a creamy cheese base with a tangy cranberry topping, perfectly balancing sweet and savory flavors. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a crowd-pleaser ideal for parties and gatherings. Serve warm with crackers or baguette for an unforgettable treat.
Ingredients
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup sour cream
2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
1/4 cup sugar
1/4 cup water
1 tbsp lemon juice
1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). - Prepare the Cream Cheese Base:
In a medium bowl, beat together the cream cheese, sour cream, honey, and vanilla extract until smooth. Spread evenly into a greased 9-inch baking dish or pie dish. - Make the Cranberry Sauce:
In a small saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, water, lemon juice, and cinnamon. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens (about 10-12 minutes). Let cool slightly. - Assemble the Dip:
Spoon the cranberry sauce over the cream cheese layer, spreading evenly. Sprinkle chopped nuts on top if desired. - Bake the Dip:
Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are bubbly and the dip is warmed through.
Serve:
Serve warm with crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetables for dipping.
Notes
- Customize with additional toppings like fresh herbs or orange zest for a twist.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8 servings
- Calories: 210 kcal
