Baked Cream Cheese Cranberry Dip

This Baked Cream Cheese Cranberry Dip is exactly what you need for your holiday parties! With creamy cheese, sweet-tart cranberries, and a warm, melty texture, this dip is always a crowd-pleaser. Serve it with crackers, breadsticks, or crostini, and watch it disappear! Not only is it quick and easy, but the festive pop of red cranberries also makes it a beautiful addition to any appetizer spread.

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Dip

Imagine warm, gooey cheese balanced by bursts of tart cranberry in every bite! The creamy base, lightly sweetened cranberries, and fresh parsley make this dip irresistible. Plus, it’s perfect for last-minute prep, taking only 10 minutes to put together before baking. It’s a rich yet refreshing addition to your holiday appetizers!

Ingredients for Baked Cream Cheese Cranberry Dip

Here’s everything you’ll need:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded white cheddar cheese
• 1 cup fresh cranberries
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• Crackers, breadsticks, or crostini for serving

Ingredient Notes

• Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese is essential for a smooth, creamy texture.
• White Cheddar & Mozzarella: These add the perfect mix of melty texture and tangy flavor.
• Fresh Cranberries: Fresh cranberries bake beautifully, but you can use thawed frozen cranberries as a substitute if needed.
• Sugar: Balances the tartness of the cranberries without overwhelming the cheese.

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls
• Baking dish (an 8×8-inch or similar size works well)
• Spatula

How to Make Baked Cream Cheese Cranberry Dip

Follow these steps to create this delicious holiday dip:

1. Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready for baking the dip.

2. Prepare the Cheese Base

In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, mozzarella, and white cheddar. Stir until smooth and creamy.

3. Coat the Cranberries

In a separate bowl, toss cranberries with sugar until evenly coated. This gives them a light sweetness to complement the cheese.

4. Assemble the Dip

Spread the cheese mixture evenly into a baking dish. Then, top with the sugared cranberries for a pop of color.

5. Bake

Bake the dip for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the cranberries begin to burst.

6. Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve warm with crackers, breadsticks, or crostini. Enjoy every creamy, tart bite!

What to Serve with Baked Cranberry Dip

This dip pairs beautifully with:

• Crackers: Whole wheat or buttery crackers are sturdy and delicious.
• Crostini: Toasted baguette slices make a perfect scoop for the creamy dip.
• Breadsticks: Crispy or soft breadsticks add a nice touch to the appetizer spread.

Tips for the Perfect Cranberry Dip

1. Use Softened Cream Cheese: This makes mixing easy and results in a smooth, creamy base.
2. Serve Warm: The dip is best right out of the oven while the cheese is still gooey.
3. Make It Ahead: You can prep the cheese mixture and coat the cranberries in advance. Just store them separately in the fridge, then assemble and bake when you’re ready.

Storage Instructions

If you have leftovers, cover and store the dip in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use dried cranberries?

Fresh cranberries are best for the juicy bursts they add to the dish. If you only have dried cranberries, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes to soften, then pat dry.

Can I substitute the cheeses?

Yes! Swap in gouda or Gruyère for a unique flavor twist, or experiment with your favorites.

Is there a way to make this dip ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare the cheese mixture and cranberries separately, store them in the fridge for up to a day, and assemble and bake just before serving.

Nutrition Information

Approximate per serving (1/8 of recipe):

• Calories: 210
• Protein: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 4g

Conclusion: A Must-Try Holiday Appetizer!

This Baked Cream Cheese Cranberry Dip is the holiday appetizer you’ll be making on repeat! With its creamy cheese base and burst of cranberry flavor, it’s both indulgent and refreshing. It’s simple, festive, and perfect for holiday gatherings.

Looking for more recipes to make your celebrations extra special? Check out these delicious options:

• Rice Krispie Chocolate Chip Cookies – A delightful twist on classic chocolate chip cookies with extra crunch!
• Giant Muffaletta Italian Sandwich – A hearty sandwich packed with layers of Italian flavors.
• Roasted Beet and Feta Stack Recipe – A fresh, colorful salad that’s sure to impress!

Let me know if you give this dip a try! And don’t forget to share your holiday creations on Pinterest by tagging @EMMARECIPES18.

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