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