Description
This Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip combines rich, creamy cheese with tangy, sweet cranberries, topped with a golden crust that’s perfect for holiday entertaining or a cozy night in. It’s a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s ready in under 30 minutes and pairs wonderfully with crackers, toasted bread, or veggies! The hint of orange zest and cinnamon adds a festive touch, making it irresistible for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup sharp white cheddar cheese, grated
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or canned)
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional for added sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- Fresh rosemary for garnish (optional)
- Crackers, bread slices, or veggies for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a medium bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, sour cream, sharp cheddar, and Parmesan until smooth.
- In a small bowl, combine the cranberry sauce, honey (if using), orange zest, and cinnamon. Stir well to combine.
- Spread the cheese mixture evenly into a greased small baking dish or cast iron skillet.
- Spoon the cranberry mixture over the cheese layer, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until the dip is bubbling and golden around the edges.
- Garnish with fresh rosemary if desired, and serve hot with crackers, toasted bread slices, or veggies.
Notes
- Make ahead tip: You can prepare the dip in advance, refrigerate it, and bake it just before serving.
- For added texture, try sprinkling some chopped walnuts or pecans on top before baking.
- Both homemade and canned cranberry sauce work great in this recipe, but homemade gives you more control over the sweetness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, Holiday
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 1/8 of the dip)
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 40mg