Looking for the perfect appetizer for your next holiday gathering? This Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip is a show-stopping blend of sweet and savory flavors that’s guaranteed to impress your guests. Featuring a creamy base, a tangy cranberry topping, and optional crunchy pecans, it’s an effortless dish that brings festive vibes to any table. I discovered this gem on I Wuv Cooking and can’t wait for you to try it!
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or need a quick appetizer to bring to a potluck, this dip is the ultimate crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Holiday-Ready: The cranberry topping makes it perfect for festive occasions.
- Easy to Make: Just a few simple steps and 35 minutes is all you need.
- Versatile: Serve it with crackers, baguettes, or fresh veggies to suit any taste.
Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup whole cranberry sauce
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- Optional Garnish: Chopped pecans and fresh parsley
- For Serving: Crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh veggies
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch baking dish or a small oven-safe casserole dish with cooking spray or butter. - Prepare the Dip Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, brown sugar, vanilla extract, lemon juice, cinnamon, and salt. Use a hand mixer or whisk to blend until smooth and creamy. - Assemble the Dip
Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Spoon the cranberry sauce over the top, spreading it out to cover the cream cheese layer. - Bake the Dip
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are bubbly and golden. For a caramelized finish, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes. - Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven and sprinkle with chopped pecans (if desired) and fresh parsley for a festive touch. Serve warm with crackers, baguette slices, or fresh veggies.
Pro Tips:
- Make Ahead: Assemble the dip ahead of time and bake just before serving.
- Add a Kick: Stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper for a hint of spice.
- Texture Upgrade: Substitute walnuts or almonds for pecans if preferred.
This Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip is the perfect appetizer for bringing people together during the holidays. With its creamy base and sweet-tangy topping, it’s a dish that will have your guests coming back for seconds (or thirds!).
Check out the original recipe on I Wuv Cooking for even more inspiration. Let me know how it turned out for you in the comments, and don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family—it’s too good to keep to yourself!
Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip: A Holiday Crowd-Pleaser
Ingredients
- 1 cup whole cranberry sauce
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, vanilla extract, lemon juice, ground cinnamon, and brown sugar until smooth.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly in a baking dish.
- Top with the cranberry sauce and sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese and chopped pecans if using.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the dip is bubbly and golden on top.
- Serve warm with crackers, bread, or vegetable sticks.
Nutrition Information
