If you’re searching for a delightful appetizer that brings together creamy, tart, and sweet flavors in one irresistible bite, you’ve just found it with this Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip Recipe. This dish combines luscious cream cheese with vibrant cranberries baked to perfection, creating a warm, comforting dip that effortlessly steals the show at any gathering. The ease of preparation and the burst of festive flavors mean it quickly becomes a party favorite that friends and family will ask for again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip Recipe is wonderfully simple to make, relying on a handful of ingredients that each play a key role in delivering rich taste, tantalizing texture, and beautiful color. From the creamy base to the tangy cranberry topping, every element shines through perfectly.
- Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): The creamy foundation that lends smoothness and richness to the dip.
- Sour cream (1/4 cup): Adds a subtle tang and enhances the velvety texture.
- Honey or maple syrup (2 tbsp): Balances tartness with a natural sweetness and depth.
- Vanilla extract (1/2 tsp): Provides warm aroma and complexity to the flavor profile.
- Fresh or frozen cranberries (1 cup): The star ingredient—offering bright, tart bursts that brighten the dish.
- Sugar (1/4 cup): Sweetens the cranberry topping to harmonize the flavors.
- Water (1/4 cup): Helps create a syrupy glaze for the cranberries.
- Lemon juice (1 tbsp): Boosts freshness and elevates the tanginess.
- Ground cinnamon (1/4 tsp): Adds warm spice, making the dip feel cozy and inviting.
- Chopped pecans or walnuts (1/4 cup, optional): Optional crunchy topping that adds texture and nuttiness.
How to Make Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Base
Start by softening your cream cheese to ensure it mixes smoothly. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with sour cream, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir everything together until the mixture is creamy and well blended. This blend is going to be the luscious base that holds all the sweet and tart flavors beautifully.
Step 2: Make the Cranberry Topping
In a small saucepan, add the cranberries, sugar, water, lemon juice, and ground cinnamon. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries pop and the mixture thickens into a syrupy glaze. This process brings out the cranberries’ natural brightness, sweetens them just right, and infuses the dip with a fragrant spiced aroma.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly in a shallow baking dish or pie plate. Pour the warm cranberry topping over it, spreading gently to cover the cream cheese base. If you’re using chopped nuts, sprinkle them on top for that added crunch. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until the edges bubble and the topping is nicely set.
Step 4: Cool Slightly Before Serving
Once baked, remove the dip from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serving it warm allows the flavors to be more pronounced while keeping the creamy texture inviting. It’s now ready to be enjoyed by all!
How to Serve Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped pecans, walnuts, or even some fresh herbs like thyme can beautifully complement this dip. The nuts add a satisfying crunch, while herbs bring a fresh contrast to the sweet and tangy notes.
Side Dishes
This dip pairs wonderfully with an array of dippers. Think crispy pita chips, buttery crostini, sturdy crackers, or even fresh vegetable sticks like celery and carrots. Each offers a different texture that enhances the creamy, fruity goodness of the dip.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive twist, serve your Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip Recipe inside a hollowed-out mini pumpkin or a decorative ceramic dish. Adding a handful of fresh cranberries and a dusting of cinnamon on top can make your presentation pop, perfect for holiday parties or cozy gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cover it well to keep the flavors fresh and prevent it from absorbing other aromas in the fridge.
Freezing
This dip doesn’t freeze particularly well because the texture of cream cheese can change after thawing. It’s best to prepare it fresh or consume leftovers within a few days rather than freezing.
Reheating
To enjoy leftovers warm, reheat the dip gently in a low oven (300°F / 150°C) until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can cause the dip to separate. Stir gently before serving to maintain that smooth, creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cranberries for the dip?
Yes! Frozen cranberries work perfectly for the Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip Recipe. Just thaw them slightly before cooking to help them break down evenly in the topping.
Is there a dairy-free option?
For a dairy-free version, try using dairy-free cream cheese and sour cream substitutes. The flavor will still be lovely, though the texture might be slightly different.
How long does this dip last once baked?
After baking, the dip stays fresh in the fridge for about 3 days. For best flavor and texture, enjoy within that window.
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
You can prepare the cream cheese base and cranberry topping separately a day before. Assemble and bake right before serving to keep everything fresh and vibrant.
What’s the best way to serve this dip at a party?
Serving warm with a variety of crackers and fresh veggies is a winning combination. Keep the dip in a warming dish if possible to maintain that perfect temperature throughout your event.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip Recipe is a treasure for those who love bold, festive flavors with minimal fuss. It’s creamy, tangy, a little sweet, and entirely irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or just want a delicious snack, this dip will quickly become a beloved staple. Give it a try and watch it vanish from the table as everyone reaches for just one more bite.
Print
Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip is a delightful and festive appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in. Creamy, tangy cream cheese is combined with a sweetened cranberry topping infused with cinnamon and lemon, then baked to perfection and optionally garnished with crunchy chopped nuts for added texture and flavor. It’s easy to prepare and serves as a luscious dip for crackers, bread, or fresh fruit.
Ingredients
Dip Base
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Cranberry Topping
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
Optional Garnish
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
Instructions
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Base: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, sour cream, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined. Transfer this mixture into a small baking dish or oven-safe skillet, spreading it evenly.
- Make the Cranberry Sauce: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the cranberries, sugar, water, lemon juice, and ground cinnamon. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens slightly, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Assemble and Bake: Spoon the warm cranberry sauce evenly over the cream cheese mixture. Bake in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes or until the dip is bubbly and slightly golden on the edges.
- Add Optional Nuts: Remove the baked dip from the oven and sprinkle with chopped pecans or walnuts, if using, to add a crunchy texture.
- Serve: Let the dip cool slightly before serving. Serve warm or at room temperature with crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh fruit for dipping.
Notes
- You can substitute honey with maple syrup to make the dip vegan-friendly if you switch the cream cheese and sour cream to suitable vegan alternatives.
- Use fresh cranberries for the best texture, but frozen cranberries work well too; just thaw before cooking.
- For a sweeter dip, adjust the sugar in the cranberry topping to your taste.
- This dip can be prepared a day ahead; assemble and refrigerate, then bake just before serving.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days; reheat gently before serving.
