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This Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip is a perfect blend of sweet and savory, ideal for your holiday gatherings or cozy nights in. The warm, creamy texture pairs beautifully with the tartness of the cranberry sauce, making it a crowd-pleasing appetizer or dip.
Whether served with crunchy crackers, fresh veggies, or soft bread, this dip will be the star of any occasion. The hint of cinnamon and nutmeg adds a festive touch, while the gooey cheese creates an indulgent treat that’s sure to be devoured by all. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, taking only 35 minutes from start to finish—perfect for any busy holiday host.
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Full Recipe:
- 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)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the cream cheese, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, cranberry sauce, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and smooth out the top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 220 kcal | Servings: 8 servings
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Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip: The Ultimate Holiday Treat
The holiday season is the perfect time to indulge in delicious, comforting foods that bring people together. One dish that has become a standout at many gatherings is the Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip. This vibrant and festive dip combines creamy cheese, sweet cranberries, and a touch of tanginess, making it an irresistible appetizer for any celebration. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or looking for a new addition to your seasonal spread, this dip is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Why This Dip Is Perfect for the Holidays
There’s something magical about bringing friends and family together around a cozy table filled with food and laughter. The Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip is the ideal way to kick off any gathering. Not only does it boast vibrant colors, making it an eye-catching dish, but it also delivers a delightful combination of flavors that will make guests go back for more.
One of the key reasons this dip is so loved is its perfect balance of textures and flavors. The rich and creamy cheese base provides a luscious mouthfeel, while the cranberries add a refreshing tartness. The baked dip is topped with a layer of melted mozzarella and sharp white cheddar, creating a creamy, gooey texture that’s simply irresistible. The cranberries, softened in the heat, burst open and release their tart juices, adding a burst of color and flavor with every bite.
Versatility in the Kitchen
Whether you’re looking to impress your guests or simply enjoy a delicious treat, this dip is an excellent choice. It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal prep time, and the ingredients are simple and easy to find. In fact, the Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip has quickly become a holiday favorite because of its versatility. It’s the kind of dish that can be made ahead of time, leaving you with more room to enjoy the festivities.
What’s more, this dip isn’t just limited to holiday celebrations. Its combination of creamy and tangy elements makes it a great choice for any special occasion, from birthdays to New Year’s parties. Additionally, its easy preparation and ability to be made in advance make it an excellent option for last-minute gatherings. All you need to do is assemble the dip, refrigerate it, and bake it right before serving.
The Key Ingredients: What Makes It Special
The beauty of the Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip lies in its simplicity. While the recipe uses a handful of ingredients, each one contributes to the dish’s overall success. Cream cheese is the base of this dip, lending a creamy texture that acts as a perfect canvas for the other ingredients. The addition of sour cream deepens the flavor and contributes to a luscious consistency.
Mozzarella and white cheddar cheeses are added for both flavor and texture. Mozzarella contributes a gooey, melted richness, while white cheddar adds a sharpness that contrasts perfectly with the sweetness of the cranberries. The cranberries themselves offer a burst of tartness that is naturally sweetened with a sprinkle of sugar, creating a balanced sweetness that plays wonderfully against the creamy cheese.
Fresh parsley is used as a garnish, not only adding a splash of green but also enhancing the dip’s festive presentation. And of course, you can serve this dip with a variety of accompaniments, such as crackers, toasted crostini, or breadsticks, which add a crunch and a mild flavor that complements the richness of the dip.
A Celebration of Color and Flavor
There’s no denying that the Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip is a visual showstopper. The deep red color of the cranberries combined with the creamy, golden cheese makes it an inviting addition to any holiday table. To make it even more festive, you can add a few simple touches, like a sprig of rosemary or a scattering of fresh cranberries around the dish for extra color. A wooden board paired with twinkle lights adds a magical holiday vibe, perfect for any occasion.
Perfect Pairings for the Dip
One of the reasons this dip works so well is its ability to pair with a variety of snacks. Seeded crackers are a great choice, offering just the right amount of crunch without overpowering the dip’s creamy texture. Rustic breadsticks add a chewy element, while toasted crostini provides a crispy, satisfying bite. Whether you choose one or several of these accompaniments, each option enhances the flavor of the dip in its own way.
For those looking to elevate their serving, consider adding a few extra touches, such as holiday-themed serving platters or a matching set of plates for crackers. The elegance of the presentation will make the dip feel even more special, setting the tone for your celebration.
Tips for the Perfect Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip
While the Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip is already a straightforward recipe, there are a few tips and tricks to ensure it turns out perfectly every time:
- Softened Cream Cheese: It’s crucial to use softened cream cheese to avoid lumps in the dip. This will help create a smooth, creamy texture when mixing the base ingredients.
- Add a Spice Twist: For those who like a little warmth in their dishes, a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg added to the cranberries enhances the flavor and brings a comforting holiday spice to the dish.
- Make It Ahead: You can easily prepare the dip a day in advance. Just assemble the ingredients, cover the dish, and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to serve, bake the dip as directed for a hot, fresh treat.
- Cheese Substitutions: If you don’t have white cheddar, you can easily substitute it with other cheeses, such as Gruyère or a sprinkle of Parmesan. These options provide a savory twist to the dip’s flavor profile.
- Leftovers: If you happen to have any leftovers (although they are rare with this dip!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the dip in the oven or microwave, and it will be just as delicious the second time around.
Conclusion: A Must-Have for Your Holiday Spread
The Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip is more than just a dip—it’s a festive experience in a dish. Its creamy texture, combined with the tartness of cranberries, creates a flavor balance that is hard to resist. Whether you’re hosting a large holiday gathering or enjoying a cozy evening with close friends, this dip is the perfect appetizer to kick off the celebrations.
Not only does it taste amazing, but it also brings a pop of color and a delicious aroma to the table. With its simple ingredients, easy preparation, and endless possibilities for customization, the Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip is a must-try for any holiday spread. So, grab your favorite crackers, get baking, and enjoy this festive treat with your loved ones!
Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Description
This Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip is a perfect blend of sweet and savory, ideal for your holiday gatherings or cozy nights in. The warm, creamy texture pairs beautifully with the tartness of the cranberry sauce, making it a crowd-pleasing appetizer or dip.
Whether served with crunchy crackers, fresh veggies, or soft bread, this dip will be the star of any occasion. The hint of cinnamon and nutmeg adds a festive touch, while the gooey cheese creates an indulgent treat that’s sure to be devoured by all. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, taking only 35 minutes from start to finish—perfect for any busy holiday host.
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 the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the cream cheese, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, cranberry sauce, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and smooth out the top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes