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There’s something magical about bringing loved ones together around a cozy table, especially during the holidays. And what better way to kick off the gathering than with a creamy, colorful dip? This Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip hits all the right notes: it’s festive, a touch sweet, beautifully tangy, and oh-so-creamy! If you’re looking for a new star for your holiday appetizer spread, this dip might just be it. Grab your favorite crackers, and let’s dive in!
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Why You’ll Love This Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip
This dip is as vibrant in taste as it is in color! Here’s why it’ll steal the show:
- Irresistible Texture: Rich, creamy layers of melted cheese topped with tart cranberries.
- Perfect Balance: Sweet cranberries, tangy cream cheese, and savory cheeses unite for a harmonious bite every time.
- Incredible Aroma: The combination of bubbly cheese and sugared cranberries wafting from the oven is sure to set a festive mood.
- Easy to Make: This dip is a breeze to whip up, leaving you with more time to enjoy the festivities.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Main Ingredients
- Cream Cheese: 8 oz, softened to mix smoothly.
- Sour Cream: 1 cup, for a creamy, tangy base.
- Mozzarella Cheese: 1 cup shredded, adding gooeyness.
- White Cheddar Cheese: ½ cup shredded, for a sharp flavor twist.
- Fresh Cranberries: 1 cup, for a tart, juicy pop.
- Sugar: 2 tbsp, to balance the cranberries’ natural tartness.
- Fresh Parsley: 2 tbsp chopped, for a festive garnish.
For Serving
- Crackers, breadsticks, or toasted crostini.
Tools You’ll Need
- Mixing Bowls: For combining the cheese mixture and coating cranberries.
- Baking Dish: A small to medium-sized ceramic dish works best.
- Spatula: To smooth out the cheese mixture in the baking dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Mix the Dip Base
In a medium-sized bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, mozzarella, and white cheddar cheese. Mix until smooth and well-blended. This creamy base is the foundation of our delicious dip!
Step 3: Prepare the Cranberries
In a separate bowl, toss the cranberries with sugar until they’re evenly coated. This little touch of sweetness helps to counter the cranberries’ tartness.
Step 4: Assemble the Dip
Spread the cheese mixture evenly into your baking dish. Then, top with the sugared cranberries, spreading them out so each scoop will have some of that juicy cranberry goodness.
Step 5: Bake
Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the dip is bubbly, and the cranberries have burst open, adding pops of color.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley for that festive look. Serve warm with crackers, breadsticks, or toasted crostini for the ultimate holiday experience!
Festive Serving & Decoration Tips
Take this dip to the next level with these simple presentation ideas:
- Holiday Garnish: Add a sprig of rosemary or some pine branches around the dish for a rustic, holiday feel.
- Cranberry Accents: Scatter fresh cranberries on the serving board for extra color.
- Soft Lights: Place the dip on a wooden board with some holiday twinkle lights for a magical look.
- Elegant Serveware: Use a white or ceramic baking dish to let the red cranberries and green parsley shine. Matching white plates for crackers add a sophisticated touch.
Perfect Pairings for Your Dip
Serve this cranberry cream cheese dip with:
- Seeded Crackers: Their crunch and mild taste complement the creamy dip.
- Rustic Breadsticks: For a bit of chewiness that pairs well with the smooth texture.
- Toasted Crostini: Adds a crispy element for an indulgent bite.
Tips for the Perfect Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip
- Don’t Skip the Softening: Softened cream cheese is essential for a smooth, creamy dip base.
- Add a Spice Twist: If you like a hint of warmth, a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg in the cranberry mixture works beautifully.
- Make It Ahead: Prepare the dip and assemble up to a day ahead, then bake just before serving.
Storage Instructions
If you have any leftovers, (though that’s rare with this dip!), store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 300°F until warmed through or microwave in short intervals.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw and drain them before tossing with sugar. They’ll work just as well as fresh cranberries.
Can I Make This Dip in Advance?
Absolutely. You can prepare and assemble the dip a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator, then bake just before serving for best results.
What’s the Best Cheese Substitute?
For a different flavor, swap white cheddar for Gruyère or add a bit of Parmesan for a more savory twist.
Make This Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip the Star of Your Holiday Spread!
This Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip is everything you want in a holiday appetizer: warm, creamy, festive, and deliciously satisfying. Its perfect balance of sweet and savory makes it an irresistible addition to any celebration, and the colors alone make it a beautiful centerpiece. Plus, it’s simple enough to whip up on short notice, yet impressive enough to leave a lasting impression!
🍪 Looking for more holiday treats? Check out these recipes!
- Christmas Brownie Cookies: Rich and Perfect for the Holidays
- Christmas Present Cookies
- Christmas Stocking Sugar Cookies
📌 Save your favorite holiday recipes and share your creations with us on Pinterest!
PrintBaked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip is the ultimate holiday appetizer, blending creamy cheeses with tart cranberries and a hint of sweetness. Perfectly balanced, easy to make, and festive, this dip is the centerpiece your holiday spread needs. Serve with crackers, crostini, or breadsticks for an unforgettable treat!
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded white cheddar cheese
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Crackers, breadsticks, or crostini for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Cheese Base: In a medium bowl, mix softened cream cheese, sour cream, mozzarella, and white cheddar until well combined.
- Coat Cranberries: In a separate bowl, toss cranberries with sugar until evenly coated.
- Assemble: Spread the cheese mixture evenly into a baking dish, then top with sugared cranberries.
- Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until bubbly and the cranberries begin to burst.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven, sprinkle with chopped parsley, and serve warm with crackers or crostini.
Notes
- Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the dip up to a day in advance; just cover and refrigerate, then bake before serving.
- Add Warm Spice: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cranberries for a warm holiday flavor twist.
- Substitute Cheeses: Swap white cheddar with Gruyère or add a sprinkle of Parmesan for extra savoriness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approx. 1/6 of dip
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 50mg