If you’re searching for a guaranteed hit at your next holiday gathering or dinner party, look no further than Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip. This luscious appetizer combines creamy, tangy cheese, sweet-tart cranberries, crunchy pecans, and a kiss of honeyed citrus. It comes together in minutes and transforms a handful of pantry staples into a bubbling, jewel-toned masterpiece. Whether you’re welcoming unexpected guests or planning a festive spread, this dip always disappears first—trust me!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip is that it uses simple, familiar ingredients that each add something special. From the silky richness of cream cheese to the vibrant pop of cranberry and crunch of toasted pecans, every element works together to make each bite memorable.
- Cream Cheese: Softened to room temperature, cream cheese creates the creamy, melty base that ties the whole dip together.
- Whole Berry Cranberry Sauce: Whether homemade or from a can, this adds tangy sweetness and beautiful color—use the berry variety for texture.
- Green Onions: Chopped green onions deliver a hint of sharpness and freshness, preventing the dip from feeling too rich.
- Pecans: Toasted pecans offer a warm, nutty crunch that perfectly balances the creamy and tart components.
- Orange Zest: Just a half teaspoon of zest wakes up the whole dish with bright citrus notes, making it extra festive.
- Honey: A drizzle of honey rounds out the tartness and adds a gentle, golden sweetness—don’t skip it.
- Crackers or Sliced Baguette: Serving vehicles matter! Offer sturdy crackers or crispy bread to scoop up every last bit.
How to Make Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip
Step 1: Preheat and Prep Your Dish
Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s hot and ready once you’ve assembled the dip. Choose a small, oven-safe baking dish, preferably one that looks pretty for serving—this dip goes directly from oven to table. Generously soften your block of cream cheese; it’ll spread more easily and bake up ultra-smooth.
Step 2: Spread the Cream Cheese
Place the softened cream cheese in the baking dish and use a spatula or the back of a spoon to spread it out evenly. Try to create a smooth, flat layer that reaches the edges; this ensures every serving is as creamy and delicious as the last.
Step 3: Mix the Cranberry Topping
In a separate bowl, combine your whole berry cranberry sauce, chopped green onions, toasted pecans, orange zest, and honey. Give it all a good stir—just a few moments of mixing will meld the flavors together and coat the nuts and onions in that gorgeous cranberry glaze.
Step 4: Top and Bake
Spoon the cranberry mixture right over the cream cheese, making sure to spread it into an even layer. It should cover the cream cheese completely, sealing in moisture and infusing flavor. Pop the dish in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are bubbling and the dip is warmed through.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove the dip from the oven and let it cool for just a minute or two—it’ll be very hot! Serve immediately with plenty of crackers or slices of toasted baguette. The gooey, melty, sweet-and-savory layers are nothing short of irresistible!
How to Serve Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip
Garnishes
Enhance the presentation of Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip with a sprinkle of fresh green onions or extra orange zest right before serving. A handful of whole cranberries or a few sprigs of fresh herbs like rosemary can also add a festive touch, making the dip just as lovely to look at as it is to eat.
Side Dishes
Pair your dip with an array of dippers to keep guests busy and satisfied. Sturdy crackers, thin slices of toasted baguette, or even crunchy celery sticks are all perfect companions. For a heartier spread, offer it alongside a cheese board or nestle the dish among a tray of roasted nuts and olives for colorful variety.
Creative Ways to Present
This Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip isn’t just a one-pan wonder—it’s versatile too! You can divide the mixture among individual ramekins for personal appetizer portions, spoon it into a hollowed bread bowl for extra style points, or serve it atop mini crostini for a bite-sized party snack.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you (miraculously!) have leftovers, transfer the dip into an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap. Stored in the refrigerator, it’ll keep beautifully for up to 3 days, and the flavors often deepen and develop overnight.
Freezing
For longer storage, you can freeze Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip. Place the cooled dip in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with both plastic and foil. It should keep well for up to a month; just know the texture may become slightly softer upon thawing, though it’s still totally delicious.
Reheating
To reheat, simply return the dip to a 350°F oven for 12–15 minutes, or until warmed through and bubbling at the edges. If you’re in a hurry, short bursts in the microwave work too. Give it a gentle stir before serving to recombine the cream cheese and topping if needed.
FAQs
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Absolutely! Low-fat cream cheese works well in Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip, though the final dish will be a little lighter and slightly less creamy. The flavors still shine through beautifully, so don’t hesitate to make the swap if you prefer.
Is it possible to make this dip ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip a day ahead. Just cover and store in the fridge, then bake it fresh right before guests arrive. This hands-off approach makes entertaining so much easier.
Can I substitute walnuts or almonds for pecans?
Certainly! Feel free to swap in toasted walnuts or almonds if that’s what you have on hand. Each type Appetizer.
What type of cranberry sauce is best?
Whole berry cranberry sauce is ideal for both flavor and texture. If you love making it from scratch, homemade is wonderful; store-bought works perfectly too. Avoid jellied cranberry sauce, as it won’t give you those delectable bursts of fruit.
Is Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, it’s naturally vegetarian! Just double-check the ingredients in your cranberry sauce and crackers to ensure they’re free of animal products, and this dish can be a crowd-pleasing option for all your guests.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip is the kind of recipe you’ll return to season after season. It’s low effort, always impressive, and wildly delicious—perfect for sharing with your favorite people. Give it a try at your next gathering and watch how quickly it becomes everyone’s new must-have appetizer!
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Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the creamy, tangy goodness of this Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip, perfect for holiday gatherings or anytime you need a flavorful appetizer. The blend of cream cheese, cranberry sauce, and pecans creates a delightful spread that pairs perfectly with crackers or bread.
Ingredients
Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip:
- 1 (8-ounce) block cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup whole berry cranberry sauce (homemade or canned)
- ¼ cup chopped green onions
- ¼ cup chopped pecans, toasted
- ½ teaspoon orange zest
- 1 tablespoon honey
For Serving:
- Crackers or sliced baguette
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare cream cheese base: Spread the softened cream cheese in a small oven-safe baking dish.
- Mix cranberry topping: In a bowl, combine cranberry sauce, green onions, pecans, orange zest, and honey.
- Layer and bake: Spoon the cranberry mixture over the cream cheese and bake for 15-20 minutes until warm and bubbly.
- Serve: Enjoy the dip hot with crackers or sliced baguette.
Notes
- Enhance flavor with a pinch of cinnamon in the cranberry mix.
- Dip can be prepared ahead and baked just before serving.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 95mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
