Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip with a Golden Crust

Fall and winter are perfect for gathering around comforting, flavorful dishes, and this Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip with a Golden Crust is the ultimate appetizer to elevate any holiday spread! Creamy, tangy, and subtly sweet, it’s an irresistible blend of savory cheese and tart cranberries wrapped in a warm, bubbly crust. Whether you’re hosting a festive dinner or looking for an easy-to-make snack for a cozy night in, this dip delivers all the comfort and flavor in just 30 minutes!

If you love warm, cheesy dips, you’ll want to make sure this becomes a go-to recipe in your repertoire. Want to stay updated with more easy recipes like this one? Subscribe to our newsletter and never miss a delicious new dish!

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip

This dip is the epitome of comfort meets elegance. The creamy cheese base is rich and velvety, while the cranberry topping adds a bright and tangy contrast, laced with a hint of cinnamon and orange zest for seasonal flair. It’s a dish that not only tastes incredible but looks stunning on the table as well!

Reasons to Love This Recipe:

1. Quick and Easy: 25 minutes from start to finish, including baking time.
2. Perfect for the Holidays: Ideal for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any gathering during cranberry season.
3. Versatile Serving Options: Pairs beautifully with crackers, bread, or fresh veggies.
4. Crowd-Pleaser: Creamy, cheesy goodness with the tartness of cranberries—what’s not to love?

Ingredients for Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip

Cream Cheese Base:

• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds smoothness and tang.
• 1/2 cup grated sharp white cheddar cheese: Gives the dip a savory depth.
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated: For extra nuttiness and flavor complexity.

Cranberry Topping:

• 1 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or canned): Provides the sweet-tart burst of flavor.
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional): A touch of sweetness to balance the tart cranberries.
• 1 teaspoon orange zest: Adds a bright, citrusy aroma.
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon: Brings warmth and a hint of spice.

Garnish and Serving:

• Fresh rosemary for garnish (optional): A fragrant, festive touch.
• Crackers, bread slices, or veggies for serving: Choose your favorite dippers!

How to Make Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip

this Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Before you get started, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready when you are.

Step 2: Mix the Creamy Cheese Base

In a medium bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, sour cream, sharp white cheddar, and Parmesan cheese until smooth and well combined. This forms the luscious base for your dip.

Step 3: Prepare the Cranberry Topping

In a small bowl, combine the cranberry sauce, honey (if using), orange zest, and cinnamon. Stir well to make sure all the flavors are evenly distributed. This topping will add a festive, tangy-sweet contrast to the savory cheese.

Step 4: Assemble the Dip

Spread the cream cheese mixture into a greased small baking dish or cast iron skillet. Spoon the cranberry mixture evenly over the top, ensuring each bite will get that perfect balance of cheese and cranberries.

Step 5: Bake

Place the assembled dip in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the dip is bubbling and golden around the edges. The smell that fills your kitchen during this time is absolutely mouthwatering!

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Garnish with fresh rosemary if you like, and serve hot with crackers, toasted bread slices, or fresh veggies. Dive in while it’s warm and gooey!

Tips for Making the Best Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip

• Room Temperature Cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature before mixing; this ensures a smooth, creamy consistency.
• Make It Ahead: You can assemble the dip in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just pop it in the oven for an easy, make-ahead appetizer.
• Cranberry Sauce Options: Both homemade and canned cranberry sauce work well, but homemade will give you control over the sweetness and texture.
• Optional Toppings: You can sprinkle some crushed walnuts or pecans on top before baking for added crunch!

What to Serve with Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip

This dip pairs perfectly with a variety of dippers. Try it with:

• Crackers: A classic pairing that provides a satisfying crunch.
• Toasted Baguette Slices: The perfect vehicle for a hearty bite of dip.
• Fresh Veggies: Sliced cucumbers, carrots, or celery add a fresh and crisp contrast to the creamy dip.

If you’re feeling adventurous, serve it alongside a charcuterie board for a stunning appetizer spread!

Ingredient Substitutions and Additions

This recipe is versatile and can be adapted based on what you have on hand:

• Cheese Swap: Swap out the sharp cheddar for gouda or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
• Add Nuts: For extra texture, try adding chopped pecans or walnuts either on top or mixed into the cream cheese layer.
• Sweeten It Up: For a sweeter cranberry topping, you can add a bit more honey or even maple syrup to the cranberry mixture.

Storage Instructions

If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare!), you can store the dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it back into the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through and bubbly again.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use low-fat cream cheese in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute regular cream cheese with low-fat cream cheese. Keep in mind that the dip may be slightly less rich and creamy, but it will still taste delicious!

Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the dip a day in advance and keep it in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, just bake as instructed.

What if I don’t have cranberry sauce?

If you’re out of cranberry sauce, you could substitute with a jam like raspberry or a different fruit-based topping, but it will change the flavor profile. Cranberries really give it that special holiday touch!

Conclusion: A Perfect Holiday Appetizer

This Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip brings together the perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors, all wrapped up in a golden, bubbly crust. It’s a dish that’s sure to impress your guests while keeping things simple in the kitchen. I highly recommend giving it a try—this dip is bound to become a staple at your holiday gatherings!

Looking for more festive appetizers? Try my delicious Roasted Cranberry and Goat Cheese Flatbread for another cranberry-inspired delight. Or, for something a little different, give my Bok Choy and Mushrooms in Oyster Sauce a try—it’s a savory, veggie-packed dish that’s perfect for any occasion. And if you’re in the mood for a hearty meal, check out these Fajita Chicken and Avocado Ranch Salad Wraps, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.

If you make this dip, let me know how it turned out by leaving a comment below or sharing your photos on Pinterest! Happy cooking! 🎉

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: 200 kcal
• Fat: 16g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Protein: 5g

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