Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip Recipe
Introduction
The Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip is a festive and flavorful appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings or any special occasion. Creamy and tangy with a touch of sweetness, this dip combines smooth cream cheese, sharp cheddar, and vibrant cranberry sauce for a crowd-pleasing treat.
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
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Step 2: In a medium bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, cranberry sauce, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined.
- Step 3: Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Step 4: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Step 5: Optional: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Tips & Variations
- Use softened cream cheese to ensure a smooth, lump-free dip.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, festive flavor boost.
- Substitute white cheddar with Gruyère or Parmesan for a different savory twist.
- Prepare the dip a day in advance and refrigerate; bake it fresh before serving for convenience.
- Serve with seeded crackers, toasted crostini, or breadsticks for a perfect pairing.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through before serving.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dip in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Bake it fresh when you’re ready to serve for the best texture and flavor.
What can I serve with this dip?
This dip pairs wonderfully with crackers, toasted crostini, breadsticks, or fresh vegetable sticks for a crunchy complement to the creamy texture.
PrintBaked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip Recipe
Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip is a festive and creamy appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings. This dip combines softened cream cheese, sour cream, sharp cheddar, and cranberry sauce seasoned with brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg, then baked until bubbly and golden. It offers a delightful balance of creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors, making it an irresistible starter to enjoy with crackers, crostini, or breadsticks.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Dip 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 Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the dip evenly.
- Mix Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, blend together the softened cream cheese, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, cranberry sauce, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until fully combined to create a creamy, flavorful mixture.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Transfer the dip mixture into a baking dish and smooth the surface with a spatula for even baking.
- Bake the Dip: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is bubbly and the top is golden brown, indicating it is heated through and perfectly cooked.
- Garnish and Serve: Optional – sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the baked dip for a pop of color and fresh flavor before serving. Serve warm with crackers, toasted crostini, or breadsticks.
Notes
- Use softened cream cheese to ensure a smooth, lump-free dip.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warming holiday spice twist.
- You can prepare the dip a day ahead; cover and refrigerate, then bake just before serving.
- Substitute cheddar with Gruyère or Parmesan for different flavor profiles.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat before serving.
Keywords: baked cranberry cream cheese dip, holiday appetizer, festive dip, creamy cheese dip, cranberry sauce dip, Christmas appetizer
