Baked Cream Cheese Cranberry Dip

This Baked Cream Cheese Cranberry Dip is the ultimate crowd-pleaser for any holiday gathering or special occasion. It combines the creamy richness of cream cheese and sour cream with the tartness of dried cranberries, the crunch of pecans, and the sweetness of brown sugar. A touch of cinnamon and vanilla extract adds a warm, comforting flavor, while baking the dip brings out its irresistible creamy texture. Serve it warm with crackers or bread, and you’ll have a decadent dip that’s sure to disappear in no time. It’s easy to make and can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it the perfect appetizer for your next event. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, a game night, or just want to treat yourself to a delicious snack, this dip is a must-try.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Perfectly Balanced Flavors

The sweet and tart combination of dried cranberries and brown sugar balances perfectly with the creamy richness of cream cheese and sour cream.

2. Warm and Comforting

Baked until bubbly, this dip is perfect for cozying up during colder months or serving at a holiday party.

3. Easy to Make

With just a few simple ingredients and a quick 30-minute prep time, this dip comes together in no time, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings.

4. Customizable Toppings

Feel free to adjust the nuts or add a sprinkle of cinnamon on top for extra flavor and texture. You can even swap cranberries for other dried fruits if you prefer.

5. Perfect for Sharing

This dip is perfect for sharing with family and friends. It serves up to 8 people, making it ideal for small gatherings or parties.

Ingredients

For the Dip:

• Cream cheese
• Sour cream
• Mayonnaise
• Dried cranberries
• Chopped pecans
• Brown sugar
• Vanilla extract
• Ground cinnamon

For Serving:

• Crackers
• Bread

Variations

• Nut-Free Version: Skip the pecans and try using a different nut like walnuts, or simply omit them entirely for a nut-free dip.
• Different Fruit: If you’re not a fan of cranberries, try using dried cherries, raisins, or apricots for a different fruity twist.
• Herb Twist: Add a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a savory version of this dip.
• Cheese Variation: Add a bit of shredded cheddar or mozzarella for a cheesy kick that complements the cream cheese base.
• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the dip for a sweet-and-spicy flavor.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure the dip bakes evenly and becomes nice and bubbly.

Step 2: Mix the Cream Cheese Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Mix well until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Add the Cranberries and Pecans

Gently fold in the dried cranberries and chopped pecans, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Step 4: Spread the Mixture into a Baking Dish

Transfer the cream cheese mixture into a small to medium-sized baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

Step 5: Bake the Dip

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the dip is heated through and bubbly around the edges.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Once baked, remove the dip from the oven and let it cool slightly. Serve warm with crackers or bread for dipping. Enjoy the creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors!

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Soften the Cream Cheese: Make sure the cream cheese is softened before mixing it with the other ingredients to ensure a smooth and lump-free dip.
• Use Full-Fat Ingredients: For the richest flavor and best texture, opt for full-fat cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise.
• Even Distribution: Be sure to fold the cranberries and pecans evenly into the mixture to ensure every bite has a balance of flavors.
• Don’t Overbake: Bake the dip just until it’s bubbly and golden. Overbaking can cause it to become too thick or dry.
• Prepare Ahead of Time: You can prepare the dip the night before and refrigerate it. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve for a warm, fresh dip.

How to Serve

This dip is best served warm with crackers, toasted bread, or sliced baguette. You can also serve it with fresh vegetables, such as carrot sticks or cucumber slices, for a healthier option. It’s perfect for spreading on toast or as a topping for mini crostini.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store the dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave it in a microwave-safe dish for 30 seconds at a time, stirring until warm.

Freezing

Although this dip can technically be frozen, the creamy texture may change when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but if you must freeze it, store it in an airtight container for up to a month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, place the dip in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals until hot.

FAQs

1. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese or sour cream, though the dip may be slightly less rich and creamy.

2. Can I add fresh cranberries?

Fresh cranberries are much more tart and firm than dried ones, so it’s better to use dried cranberries for this dip. However, you can cook the fresh cranberries down with sugar to create a compote if you prefer.

3. Can I make this dip in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the dip the day before and store it in the fridge. Just bake it right before serving.

4. Can I use a different nut instead of pecans?

Yes, you can use walnuts, almonds, or pistachios for a different nutty flavor.

5. How can I make this dip spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the dip for a spicy twist.

6. Can I serve this dip with veggies?

Yes, this dip pairs well with fresh veggies like carrots, celery, or cucumber slices for a healthier option.

7. Can I use a different type of sweetener instead of brown sugar?

You can substitute brown sugar with maple syrup or honey, though it may alter the consistency slightly.

8. Can I bake the dip in a different dish?

Yes, you can use any oven-safe baking dish. Just adjust the baking time as needed depending on the size of the dish.

9. Can I skip the mayonnaise?

Yes, you can omit the mayonnaise, but it adds extra creaminess to the dip. If you skip it, you may want to increase the sour cream slightly to make up for the texture.

10. Can I serve this dip cold?

While this dip is best served warm, you can serve it cold as well. Just note that the flavor and texture are much better when it’s heated through.

Conclusion

The Baked Cream Cheese Cranberry Dip is a delightful and indulgent appetizer perfect for any holiday or special occasion. It’s simple to prepare, loaded with flavor, and sure to be a hit with your guests. Whether you’re celebrating Christmas, Thanksgiving, or any festive gathering, this dip is an easy and impressive way to add a little extra flavor to the party. Rich, creamy, and just the right amount of sweetness, this dip is a must-try that will quickly become a favorite in your recipe repertoire!

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