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.
Ingredients
Scale
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)
Instructions
- Prepare the oven by heating to 375°F (190°C), ensuring an even temperature for optimal baking.
- Combine cream cheese, sour cream, cheddar cheese, cranberry sauce, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a mixing bowl, blending until smooth and well-integrated.
- Spread the creamy mixture evenly into a baking dish, creating a uniform surface for consistent heating.
- 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.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes to settle the flavors and slightly cool the dip.
- Optionally, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley across the surface for a vibrant garnish and added freshness before serving.
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, Snacks
- 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