Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip
Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive
This delicious Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip is a sweet and savory delight that combines creamy cheese with tangy cranberries for an irresistible appetizer. Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in, this dip is easy to make and sure to impress your guests. Serve it warm with crisp crackers or toasted bread for a luxurious touch that everyone will love.
This dip has become a staple at our holiday gatherings. My family can't get enough of it!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy and tangy flavor combination
- Perfect for entertaining
- Quick and easy to prepare
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you're hosting a glamorous holiday party, a casual get-together, or simply enjoying a cozy night in, this Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip is a fantastic addition to your menu. Its unique blend of tart cranberries and creamy cheese appeals to a variety of taste preferences, making it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Guests of all ages will find themselves reaching for more, thanks to its irresistible flavor profile that perfectly balances sweetness and tanginess.
This dip not only serves as a delightful appetizer but can also be a fun party centerpiece. Pair it with an array of dippables like fresh vegetables, crispy crackers, or warm toasted bread to create an inviting snack table that encourages mingling. Its warm, comforting nature is perfect for making memories around the table, transforming any moment into a festive occasion.
Simple Preparation Steps
One of the best aspects of this Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a dish that tastes like it took hours to prepare. The process involves mixing all the ingredients together and baking until bubbly and golden, ensuring that even novice cooks can succeed. This ease of preparation makes it a go-to recipe for those spontaneous gatherings when time is of the essence.
Additionally, the ingredients are easy to find in most grocery stores, making it accessible to everyone. You can even opt for homemade cranberry sauce if you're feeling adventurous, or use store-bought for convenience. Either way, the result is a delicious dip that is sure to impress your family and friends without the stress of complicated cooking techniques.
Storage and Leftover Ideas
Ingredients
For the Dip
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup cranberry sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
Enjoy your dip with your favorite dippers!
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Mix the Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, cranberry sauce, cheddar cheese, walnuts, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Transfer to Baking Dish
Spread the mixture into a baking dish.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until bubbly and golden.
Serve
Serve warm with crackers or toasted bread.
Enjoy your creamy, savory dip!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving this Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip, think outside the box! While crispy crackers and toasted bread are classic choices, there are plenty of options to explore. Fresh vegetable sticks such as carrots, celery, or bell peppers add a crunchy, healthy contrast to the creamy dip. Consider offering an assortment of dippables to cater to various tastes and preferences, allowing everyone to enjoy this delectable treat their way.
For a more festive presentation, arrange your serving platter with a colorful array of fruits. Slices of apple or pear not only pair wonderfully with the dip but also create an appealing visual display that's sure to attract your guests. Additionally, if you want to elevate the dip experience, serve it alongside a selection of cheeses and cured meats for a delightful charcuterie board.
Variations and Customizations
While the original recipe for Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip is delightful as is, there are several ways to customize it to suit your taste or dietary needs. For a spicier kick, consider adding jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the mixture. If you're looking for a healthier twist, you can substitute Greek yogurt for part of the cream cheese to create a lighter version without sacrificing flavor.
For those who love a hint of sweetness, adding a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup can beautifully enhance the overall taste profile. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as goat cheese or feta, to introduce more depth. Personalizing this recipe allows you to create a unique twist every time, ensuring each gathering has something special.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it and refrigerate before baking.
→ What can I serve this dip with?
Serve with crackers, toasted bread, or even fresh veggies.
Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip
This delicious Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip is a sweet and savory delight that combines creamy cheese with tangy cranberries for an irresistible appetizer. Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in, this dip is easy to make and sure to impress your guests. Serve it warm with crisp crackers or toasted bread for a luxurious touch that everyone will love.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Seasonal & Festive
Skill Level: easy
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
For the Dip
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup cranberry sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, cranberry sauce, cheddar cheese, walnuts, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Spread the mixture into a baking dish.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until bubbly and golden.
Serve warm with crackers or toasted bread.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 5g