Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip Recipe
Introduction
This Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip is a delightful blend of creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors perfect for holiday gatherings or anytime you want a festive appetizer. Warm and bubbly, it pairs wonderfully with crackers or fresh veggies.
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked cranberry sauce (or whole berry sauce)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Step 2: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, cranberry sauce, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix well until smooth and evenly blended.
- Step 3: Transfer the mixture into a baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Step 4: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Step 5: Remove from the oven and optionally garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Tips & Variations
- Use whole berry cranberry sauce for added texture, or smooth sauce for a creamier dip.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle spicy kick.
- Serve with a variety of dippers like toasted baguette slices, pita chips, or fresh vegetables.
Storage
Store leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through, stirring occasionally for even heating.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I prepare this dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dip and refrigerate it unbaked for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, bake as instructed, adding a couple of extra minutes if baking straight from the fridge.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
You can substitute cream cheese with Neufchâtel cheese for a lower fat option, but the dip may be slightly less creamy.
PrintBaked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip Recipe
A warm, creamy, and tangy baked cranberry cream cheese dip that combines the richness of cream cheese and cheddar with the sweet and tart flavors of cranberry sauce, perfect for holiday parties and gatherings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
- Category: Dip
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Dip Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked cranberry sauce (or whole berry sauce)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the dip evenly.
- Mix Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, thoroughly combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, cranberry sauce, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until smooth and well incorporated.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Transfer the creamy mixture into a suitable baking dish and spread it out evenly to form a smooth surface.
- Bake the Dip: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the dip becomes bubbly and the top turns a golden brown color.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and optionally garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness before serving warm with crackers, bread, or veggies.
Notes
- Sour cream adds creaminess but can be substituted with Greek yogurt for a tangier flavor.
- Use whole berry cranberry sauce for texture or smooth cranberry sauce as preferred.
- Ensure cream cheese is softened to make mixing easier and prevent lumps.
- Serve warm to enjoy the dip’s melty, creamy texture.
- Pairs well with toasted baguette slices, crackers, or fresh vegetable sticks.
Keywords: baked cranberry cream cheese dip, holiday dip, creamy cranberry dip, cheesy cranberry appetizer
