Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip Recipe for Holiday Joy

Creamy dreams come alive with this irresistible baked cranberry cream cheese dip that promises pure comfort.

Soft cheese blends wonderfully with tart berries for an unexpected flavor combination.

Holiday gatherings demand something special and memorable.

Guests will marvel at the rich, velvety texture emerging from your oven.

Mediterranean-inspired ingredients create a stunning appetizer perfect for casual get-togethers.

Warmth and elegance converge in this simple yet sophisticated recipe.

You won't be able to resist serving this crowd-pleasing delicacy that transforms ordinary moments into extraordinary celebrations.

Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip Common Questions

• Can I use homemade cranberry sauce instead of store-bought?

Yes, homemade cranberry sauce works perfectly and can enhance the flavor of the dip with a more fresh and authentic taste.

• Is this dip suitable for vegetarian diets?

This recipe is vegetarian-friendly, but not vegan due to the dairy ingredients like cream cheese and sour cream.

• What are the best crackers or chips to serve with this dip?

Wheat crackers, toasted baguette slices, pita chips, and buttery crackers pair wonderfully with this creamy cranberry dip.

• Can I prepare this dip ahead of time?

You can mix the ingredients and refrigerate the unbaked dip for up to 24 hours before baking, making it great for advance party preparation.

What Makes Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip So Tasty

• Breeze Through Preparation: Mix ingredients in one bowl and bake, making this recipe super simple for cooks of all skill levels.
• Crowd-Pleasing Party Starter: Combines sweet and savory flavors that appeal to guests, perfect for holiday gatherings or game day celebrations.
• Versatile Serving Options: Pair with crackers, toast points, or vegetable sticks, offering flexible serving choices for different preferences and dietary needs.
• Festive Flavor Explosion: Cranberry and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg create a delightful seasonal taste that feels cozy and comforting.

Ingredients List For Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip

• Cream Cheese: Provides a rich and creamy foundation for the dip.
• Sour Cream: Adds tanginess and smooth texture to the mixture.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Offers a sharp and melty cheese flavor.

• Cranberry Sauce: Brings a sweet and tart berry component to the dip.
• Brown Sugar: Adds depth of sweetness and helps caramelize the top.

• Cinnamon, Nutmeg: Provide warm, aromatic background notes to the dip.
• Fresh Parsley: Optional garnish that adds a pop of color and fresh herb flavor.

Steps To Make Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Turn on the oven and set the temperature to 375°F. This ensures the perfect environment for creating a deliciously warm and creamy dip.

Step 2: Create the Flavor Blend

• Cream cheese
• Sour cream
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Cranberry sauce
• Brown sugar
• Cinnamon
• Nutmeg

Stir everything together until the mixture becomes smooth and well-integrated, allowing the flavors to mingle and dance.

Step 3: Prepare for Baking

Transfer the creamy mixture into a baking dish, using a spatula to spread it evenly and create a beautiful, uniform surface.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Slide the baking dish into the preheated oven and let it transform for 20-25 minutes. Watch for the top to turn a gorgeous golden brown and the edges to become delightfully bubbly.

Step 5: Add Final Touch

Optional: Sprinkle some fresh parsley on top just before serving to add a pop of color and fresh herb flavor. Serve hot and enjoy the rich, creamy goodness!

Helpful Tips For Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip

• Soften cream cheese at room temperature beforehand for smoother, lump-free mixing.
• Use homemade or high-quality cranberry sauce for richer, more authentic flavor.
• Swap sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter, protein-packed alternative.
• Serve warm with toasted baguette slices, crackers, or fresh vegetables for dipping.
• For a festive presentation, sprinkle chopped pecans or sliced almonds on top before baking.

Easy Twists On Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip

• Spicy Cranberry Salsa Dip: Add diced jalapeños and a splash of hot sauce to the cream cheese mixture for a fiery kick.
• Mediterranean Herb Cranberry Spread: Mix in chopped fresh rosemary, thyme, and crumbled feta cheese for a Mediterranean-inspired flavor profile.
• Nutty Cranberry Crunch Dip: Sprinkle toasted chopped pecans or almonds on top before baking to add a crunchy texture and rich, nutty undertones.
• Maple Pecan Cranberry Fusion: Replace brown sugar with maple syrup and fold in chopped pecans for a sweet and earthy variation.

What Goes Well With Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip

• Pair with Crisp Crackers: Select wheat or multigrain crackers that provide a satisfying crunch and complement the creamy texture of the dip.
• Enhance with Sparkling Wine: Choose a chilled prosecco or champagne that cuts through the rich, sour flavors and adds festive elegance.
• Match with Roasted Nuts: Serve toasted almonds or pecans alongside the dip to introduce a warm, nutty contrast and additional depth to each bite.
• Complement with Apple Slices: Slice fresh, crisp apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith to offer a refreshing, slightly tart counterpoint to the creamy cheese mixture.

How To Store Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
• Transfer dip to a freezer-safe container, seal tightly, and freeze for 1-2 months. Protect from freezer burn by wrapping in plastic wrap first.
• Thaw overnight in refrigerator, then warm at 350°F for 10-15 minutes. Cover with foil to prevent excessive browning and maintain creamy texture.
• Warm in 30-second intervals, stirring between each burst. Use medium power to prevent separation and maintain smooth consistency.

Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip Recipe

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4.6 from 9 reviews

• Total Time: 30-35 minutes
• Yield: 8 1x

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Description

Creamy cranberry cream cheese dip brings festive holiday cheer straight to your appetizer table. Tangy berries and smooth cream cheese create a perfect blend of sweet and savory that guests will absolutely adore.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Cheese Ingredients:

• 8 ounces (226 grams) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup (113 grams) shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) sour cream

Fruit and Sweetener Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) cooked cranberry sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar

Spice Ingredients:

• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the oven by heating to 375°F (190°C), ensuring an even temperature for optimal baking.
2. Combine cream cheese, sour cream, cheddar cheese, cranberry sauce, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a mixing bowl, blending until smooth and well-integrated.
3. Spread the creamy mixture evenly into a baking dish, creating a uniform surface for consistent heating.
4. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, watching for a golden-brown top and bubbling edges that indicate complete cooking.
5. Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes to settle the flavors and slightly cool the dip.
6. Optionally, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley across the surface.

Notes

• Adjust sweetness by choosing between whole or jellied cranberry sauce, tailoring the flavor profile to personal preference.
• Swap full-fat cream cheese with low-fat or Greek yogurt versions for a lighter, healthier alternative without compromising texture.
• Enhance serving options by pairing with toasted baguette slices, crisp crackers, or fresh vegetable sticks for diverse dipping experiences.
• Prepare the dip ahead of time and refrigerate unbaked, allowing flavors to meld together for a more intense taste when baking just before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 130
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 250 mg
• Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 7 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Protein: 4 g
• Cholesterol: 30 mg