Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip with a Golden Crust is the perfect dish for any gathering or cozy night in. This delightful dip combines creamy cheese with the tartness of cranberries, all encased in a flaky puff pastry shell. It’s simple to whip up and offers a delicious option that feels indulgent yet is easily customizable for any occasion.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 8
Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 210
Protein: 4 g
Carbohydrates: 25 g
Fat: 10 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 5 g
Sodium: 150 mg
Why Make Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip with a Golden Crust
This Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip with a Golden Crust isn’t just delicious; it’s also incredibly versatile. With the creamy blend of cheese, sour cream, and cranberries topped with a flaky crust, it appeals to a range of tastes. Plus, it can be served warm or at room temperature, making it a stress-free option for unexpected guests. It’s a great crowd-pleaser that can light up your table at parties, holidays, or casual get-togethers.
How to Make Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip with a Golden Crust Step by Step
Ingredients
8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup (120 ml) sour cream
1/4 cup (50 g) granulated sugar
1 tsp (5 ml) vanilla extract
1/2 tsp (2 g) cinnamon
1/2 cup (50 g) dried cranberries
1/4 cup (30 g) chopped pecans
1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Directions
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a small baking dish. In a medium bowl, beat cream cheese, sour cream, sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon until smooth. Fold in dried cranberries and pecans. Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Roll out puff pastry over the top of the cream cheese mixture, trimming edges if needed. Brush the pastry with beaten egg. Bake for 25–30 minutes, until the puff pastry is golden and crisp. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving. Serve with crackers or sliced baguette.
How to Serve Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip with a Golden Crust
For an ideal serving experience, pair this warm dip with an assortment of crunchy crackers or slices of a fresh baguette. You can also serve it alongside a vibrant salad for a light, balanced meal. Adding a dollop of herbed cream or a drizzle of honey can elevate the flavors even further.
How to Store Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip with a Golden Crust
Storing your leftover Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip is simple. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat in the oven until warmed through. If you want to freeze it, wrap the dip tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can last up to 2 months in the freezer. Just remember to thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
Expert Tips for Cooking Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip with a Golden Crust
- Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easy mixing.
- Feel free to add herbs like thyme or rosemary for an extra flavor boost.
- Customize the nuts with walnuts or almonds based on your preference.
- For a sweeter twist, consider adding chocolate chips to the mix.
- Always watch the pastry closely while baking to ensure it doesn’t over-brown.
Delicious Variations of Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip with a Golden Crust
Try making a spicy version by adding crushed red pepper flakes or jalapeños to the cream cheese mixture. For a herbed twist, add fresh chopped herbs like parsley or chives. If you’re looking for a zesty kick, a touch of orange zest can brighten the flavor profile beautifully.
Conclusion
Don’t miss the chance to indulge in this Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip with a Golden Crust. Its rich flavors, easy preparation, and impressive appearance make it a must-try for your next event. Enjoy the versatility and the delectable taste that everyone will love!
Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip
Ingredients
For the dip
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened Make sure it's at room temperature for easy mixing.
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans Feel free to customize with walnuts or almonds.
For the crust
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 1 egg beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a small baking dish.
- In a medium bowl, beat cream cheese, sour cream, sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon until smooth.
- Fold in dried cranberries and pecans.
- Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Roll out puff pastry over the top of the cream cheese mixture, trimming edges if needed.
- Brush the pastry with beaten egg.
Baking
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, until the puff pastry is golden and crisp.
- Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
