Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip Recipe
Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip Recipe is the perfect blend of savory and sweet, making it an irresistible appetizer for any occasion. This easy-to-prepare dip combines rich cream cheese with tangy cranberry flavors, appealing to all palates. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a cozy snack, this dip is sure to impress your guests and make your taste buds dance.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 8
Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 220
Protein: 8g
Carbohydrates: 9g
Fat: 18g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 220mg
Why Make Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip Recipe
This Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip Recipe is not only simple but also versatile. It allows you to experiment with flavors while delivering a comforting and satisfying dip that’s perfect for all types of gatherings. The combination of creamy cheese and tart cranberries adds a delicious contrast, making it a go-to choice for family parties, holiday celebrations, or game day. Plus, its customizable nature lets you swap ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
How to Make Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip Recipe Step by Step
Ingredients
8 oz Cream Cheese, room temperature
2 cups Sharp Cheddar Cheese, grated (divided)
1 cup Cranberry Sauce
½ cup Fresh Cranberries
Directions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for baking the dip evenly. Lightly grease a small oven-safe baking dish, about 6×9 inches, to prevent sticking and allow easy serving. Using a mixer or hand whisk, whip the room temperature cream cheese until it becomes fluffy and smooth. This ensures a creamy texture in the final dip. Add 1 ¾ cups of the grated sharp cheddar cheese to the whipped cream cheese and stir until well combined, forming the cheesy base of the dip. Gently fold in the cranberry sauce and fresh cranberries to the cheese mixture. This adds tangy sweetness and fresh fruit texture. Spoon the mixture into the prepared greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the dip for a golden, cheesy crust. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes until the dip is bubbly and heated through. For a beautiful golden brown finish, place the dip under the broiler for 1 to 2 minutes. Watch closely to prevent burning. Remove from oven and serve immediately with your choice of crackers, bread, or fresh vegetables for dipping.
How to Serve Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip Recipe
This dip pairs wonderfully with a variety of dippers. Serve it with crispy crackers, slices of fresh baguette, or colorful veggie sticks like carrots and bell peppers for a crunchy contrast. You can also place it on a charcuterie board alongside assorted cheeses and nuts for a lovely sharing platter.
How to Store Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip Recipe
To store your leftover Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. For reheating, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through. If you want to prepare it in advance, you can freeze the dip before baking. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.
Expert Tips for Cooking Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip Recipe
- Use room-temperature cream cheese for easier mixing and a smoother texture.
- Feel free to experiment with different cheese varieties, like pepper jack for a spicy twist.
- For added flavor, incorporate fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into the cheese mixture.
- Don’t skip the broiler step for that perfect golden crust; just keep a close eye on it!
- This dip can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving for warm, fresh results.
Delicious Variations of Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip Recipe
For a spicy kick, try mixing in some diced jalapeños. You can also create a herbed version by adding chopped fresh parsley or dill into the mix. If you’re looking for a twist, consider adding a splash of orange zest or juice for a citrusy flavor. For a vegetarian variation, use a blend of roasted vegetables instead of cranberries.
Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip Recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves the combination of tangy and creamy flavors. Its simplicity, flavor profile, and versatility make it ideal for any occasion. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy every cheesy, delicious bite!
Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a small oven-safe baking dish (about 6×9 inches).
- Using a mixer or hand whisk, whip the room temperature cream cheese until it becomes fluffy and smooth.
- Add 1 ¾ cups of the grated sharp cheddar cheese to the whipped cream cheese and stir until well combined.
- Gently fold in the cranberry sauce and fresh cranberries to the cheese mixture.
- Spoon the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes until bubbly and heated through.
- For a golden brown finish, place the dip under the broiler for 1 to 2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
- Remove from oven and serve immediately with crackers, bread, or fresh vegetables for dipping.
