Irresistible Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip Recipe for Gatherings

Crafting a delightful baked cranberry cream cheese dip promises a festive twist on classic appetizers.

Tangy berries mingle with smooth, rich cheese in this crowd-pleasing creation.

Holiday gatherings sparkle with unexpected flavor combinations that surprise and delight guests.

Warm, creamy textures invite everyone to savor each delectable bite.

Creamy cheese provides a luxurious base that complements sharp cranberry notes perfectly.

Simple ingredients come together effortlessly, making this recipe a stress-free addition to any celebration.

Why Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip Is Sweet And Savory

• Crowd-Pleasing Appetizer: Impress guests with this delightful dip that combines creamy texture and festive cranberry flavors, perfect for holiday gatherings or casual get-togethers.
• Quick Kitchen Magic: Prepare this dip in mere minutes with simple ingredients, making it an ideal solution for last-minute entertaining or unexpected company.
• Versatile Serving Option: Enjoy with crackers, bread, or even vegetable sticks, offering flexible pairing choices that suit different taste preferences and dietary needs.
• Minimal Cooking Skills Required: Create a gourmet-looking appetizer without advanced culinary techniques, making it accessible for home cooks of all experience levels.

What You Need For Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip

• Cream Cheese: A smooth and creamy base that provides rich texture and tangy flavor to the dip.
• Cranberry Sauce: A sweet and tart sauce that adds vibrant color and festive taste to the recipe.
• Mozzarella Cheese: A mild cheese that melts beautifully and creates a golden, bubbly topping.
• Pecans: Crunchy nuts that add a nutty flavor and provide a delightful textural contrast.

• Crackers, Bread: Crisp vehicles for scooping and enjoying the warm, creamy dip.

• No additional garnish needed for this recipe.

Easy Steps To Make Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip

Step 1: Mix Cheesy Base

Grab a mixing bowl and blend cream cheese with cranberry sauce until the mixture becomes smooth and uniform. Use a spatula or electric mixer to ensure no lumps remain.

Step 2: Transfer to Baking Dish

Spread the creamy cranberry mixture evenly into a small baking dish, creating a neat and level surface.

Step 3: Add Delicious Toppings

• Shredded mozzarella cheese
• Chopped pecans

Distribute the toppings to cover the entire surface for maximum flavor.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Place the baking dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). Bake for 15-20 minutes until the cheese melts completely and becomes bubbly with a slightly golden appearance.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the baked dip from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve immediately with an assortment of crackers, toasted bread slices, or fresh vegetable sticks for dipping.

Helpful Tips For Baked Cheese Dip Success

• Select room temperature cream cheese for smoother blending and easier mixing with cranberry sauce.
• Choose homemade or store-bought cranberry sauce, ensuring it's not too runny to maintain dip consistency.
• Swap pecans with other nuts like almonds or walnuts for different flavor profiles and texture variations.
• Use low-fat cream cheese and mozzarella for a lighter version without compromising taste.
• Prepare dip ahead of time and refrigerate before baking, allowing flavors to meld together for enhanced taste.

Fun Twists On Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip

• Herbal Fusion: Add fresh rosemary and thyme to the cream cheese mixture for an aromatic herb-infused dip that elevates the cranberry flavor.
• Spicy Southwest: Mix in diced jalapeños and a sprinkle of chili powder to create a zesty, heat-packed version that brings bold southwestern flair.
• Mediterranean Style: Incorporate crumbled feta cheese and chopped kalamata olives for a tangy, Mediterranean-inspired appetizer with rich, complex flavors.
• Nutty Harvest: Replace pecans with toasted almonds and add a drizzle of honey to create a golden, sweet-and-crunchy autumn-themed dip.

Best Dippers For Cranberry Cheese Dip

• Pair Fresh Sourdough Slices: Crusty, tangy sourdough bread complements the creamy, sweet-tart dip perfectly, offering a robust texture contrast.
• Recommend Crisp White Wine: Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio cuts through the richness, enhancing the cranberry's brightness and the dip's creaminess.
• Select Charcuterie Board Companions: Arrange prosciutto, salami, and mild gouda alongside the dip to create a balanced, elegant appetizer spread.
• Match Sparkling Apple Cider: Non-alcoholic, effervescent cider provides a refreshing counterpoint to the rich, cheesy dip, delighting guests with its light, fruity notes.

How To Store Leftover Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days, covering the dip completely to prevent drying out and absorbing other refrigerator odors.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for maximum 1 month. Place in a freezer-safe container to maintain texture and prevent freezer burn.
• Thaw overnight in refrigerator, then bake at 350F for 10-15 minutes until heated through. Cover with foil to prevent cheese from burning and retain moisture.
• Warm in short 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval to distribute heat evenly. Use medium power to prevent cheese from separating or becoming rubbery.

FAQs About Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip

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

Yes, homemade cranberry sauce works perfectly and can add a more personalized flavor to the dip.

• Is this dip suitable for vegetarian guests?

Absolutely! This dip is vegetarian-friendly and can be enjoyed by those who don’t eat meat.

• How do I know when the dip is perfectly baked?

The dip is ready when the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden around the edges, which typically takes 15-20 minutes.

• Can I prepare this dip ahead of time?

You can mix the cream cheese and cranberry sauce beforehand and refrigerate, then add toppings and bake just before serving for the best results.

Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 21 reviews

• Total Time: 25-30 minutes
• Yield: 8 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Cranberry cream cheese dip elevates holiday appetizers with its perfect blend of tangy and creamy flavors. Rich cream cheese mingles with zesty cranberries, creating a festive spread that will delight guests at any gathering.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 1 package (8 ounces/226 grams) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup (240 milliliters) cranberry sauce
• 1/2 cup (50 grams) shredded mozzarella cheese

Garnish and Topping:

• 1/4 cup (30 grams) chopped pecans

Serving:

• Crackers or bread

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Blend softened cream cheese with cranberry sauce in a mixing bowl until smooth and fully incorporated.
2. Transfer the creamy mixture into a compact baking vessel, ensuring an even distribution.
3. Generously scatter shredded mozzarella cheese across the surface, creating a delicate covering.
4. Sprinkle chopped pecans over the cheese layer, adding a crunchy textural dimension.
5. Place the prepared dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 15-20 minutes.
6. Monitor the dip until the cheese transforms into a golden, bubbling topping with slightly crisp edges.
7. Remove from oven and let rest for 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to settle and temperature to moderate.
8. Serve immediately alongside crisp crackers or toasted bread slices for optimal enjoyment.

Notes

• Keep cream cheese at room temperature for easier mixing and smoother texture.
• Use homemade or store-bought cranberry sauce for versatility and convenience.
• Toast pecans beforehand to enhance their nutty flavor and add extra crunch to the dip.
• For a lighter version, substitute low-fat cream cheese and reduce mozzarella quantity.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
• Category: Appetizer, Snacks, Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 209 kcal
• Sugar: 13 g
• Sodium: 167 mg
• Fat: 16 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0.2 g
• Carbohydrates: 11 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 5 g
• Cholesterol: 42 mg