Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip Recipe

★★★★★

4.5 from 122 reviews
  • Author: Simon
  • 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

Scale

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

  1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s properly heated for baking the dip evenly.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can't wait to see what you've made!

Find it online: https://kitchenofsimon.com/baked-cranberry-cream-cheese-dip-recipe/