Holiday Cranberry Dip Recipe
Introduction
This Holiday Cranberry Dip is a festive and easy appetizer perfect for gatherings. Creamy, tangy, and topped with sweet cranberry sauce and crunchy pecans, it pairs beautifully with sturdy crackers for dipping.
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Whole berry cranberry sauce
- ½ cup pecans, chopped
- Sturdy crackers (like Wheat Thins) for dipping
Instructions
- Step 1: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, salt, and about 2 tablespoons of chopped pecans. Mix well until evenly blended.
- Step 2: Spread the mixture into a serving dish, making the surface flat and even.
- Step 3: Spoon the whole berry cranberry sauce over the cream cheese mixture and spread evenly across the top.
- Step 4: Sprinkle the remaining chopped pecans over the cranberry layer. Serve with sturdy crackers and enjoy!
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, try adding a dash of cinnamon or a splash of orange juice to the cream cheese mixture.
- Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds if preferred or to suit dietary needs.
- Use homemade cranberry sauce for a fresher taste and to control sweetness.
Storage
Store the dip covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best texture, add the pecan topping just before serving. If needed, let the dip sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving to soften slightly.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I prepare the dip in advance?
Yes, you can make the cream cheese mixture and cranberry layer a day ahead. Store covered in the fridge and add the pecans just before serving for maximum crunch.
What are good alternatives to crackers for dipping?
Try serving with sliced apples, celery sticks, or toasted baguette slices for a tasty twist on dipping options.
PrintHoliday Cranberry Dip Recipe
This Holiday Cranberry Dip is a festive, creamy appetizer perfect for gatherings and holiday parties. Combining soft cream cheese, tangy sour cream, sweet whole berry cranberry sauce, and crunchy pecans, it offers a balanced blend of flavors and textures. Served with sturdy crackers like Wheat Thins, it makes a delightful and easy-to-prepare snack for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Dip Base
- 8 oz Cream Cheese, softened
- ½ cup Sour Cream
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 2 tablespoons Pecans, chopped (for mixing)
Topping
- Whole Berry Cranberry Sauce (enough to spread evenly, approximately ¾ cup)
- ½ cup Pecans, chopped (for topping)
Serving
- Sturdy Crackers (such as Wheat Thins), for dipping
Instructions
- Combine Base Ingredients: In a medium bowl, add the softened cream cheese, sour cream, salt, and 2 tablespoons of chopped pecans. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
- Spread the Dip Base: Transfer the cream cheese mixture into a serving dish and spread it evenly to form a flat, smooth layer.
- Add Cranberry Sauce Layer: Spoon the whole berry cranberry sauce on top of the cream cheese base, spreading it evenly to cover the surface completely.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the remaining chopped pecans evenly over the cranberry sauce layer. Serve the dip chilled or at room temperature alongside sturdy crackers for dipping.
Notes
- Allow the cream cheese to soften at room temperature for easier mixing.
- Use whole berry cranberry sauce for a more festive look and texture.
- Chill the dip before serving for flavors to meld together.
- Substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds if preferred.
- Best served with sturdy crackers to hold up to the creamy dip without breaking.
Keywords: holiday dip, cranberry dip, cream cheese dip, festive appetizer, pecan dip, easy holiday recipe, no-cook dip, party appetizer
