Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip Recipe
Introduction
This Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip is a deliciously creamy and tangy appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings or any cozy night in. Warm, cheesy, and topped with a touch of sweetness, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
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-sized 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 out the top evenly.
- Step 4: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Step 5: Remove from the oven and, if desired, garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to the mixture to give it a mild kick.
- Substitute the cheddar cheese with mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a different melty texture.
- Use homemade cranberry sauce or store-bought whole berry sauce depending on convenience and taste preference.
- Serve with sliced baguette, crackers, or fresh veggies for dipping.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the dip in a microwave or oven until heated through and bubbly again. Stir gently before serving.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I prepare this dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dip and refrigerate it for a few hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if the dip is cold from the fridge.
What can I use if I don’t have sour cream?
You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture.
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Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
This Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip is a warm, creamy, and festive appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings. Combining the tanginess of cream cheese and sour cream with the sweetness of cranberry sauce and spices, it’s topped with melted cheddar cheese for a savory finish. Simple to prepare and baked to bubbly perfection, it’s an irresistible crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Fruit and Sweeteners
- 1/2 cup cooked cranberry sauce (or whole berry sauce)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
Spices
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Optional Garnish
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s properly heated for baking the dip evenly.
- Mix the ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, cranberry sauce, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir until all components are thoroughly blended into a smooth mixture.
- Prepare for baking: Transfer the creamy mixture into a baking dish, spreading it out evenly and smoothing the top with a spatula to encourage even browning.
- Bake the dip: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the dip is bubbly and the top turns a golden brown.
- Garnish and serve: Once baked, optionally sprinkle the dip with chopped fresh parsley to add a pop of color and fresh flavor before serving warm with crackers or sliced bread.
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother dip.
- Use whole berry cranberry sauce for added texture and a more intense cranberry flavor.
- This dip pairs wonderfully with crackers, toasted baguette slices, or crisp vegetables.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute cream cheese and sour cream with plant-based alternatives and choose vegan cheddar cheese.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator covered and reheated gently before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: cranberry cream cheese dip, baked dip, holiday appetizer, cheesy cranberry dip, festive party dip
