This Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip combines creamy, tangy cheese with a topping of tart cranberries for a perfect blend of flavors. Quick to prepare, this dish is ideal for holiday entertaining or cozy gatherings. Serve it with an assortment of crackers, breadsticks, or crostini, and watch as everyone gathers around for a taste of this delicious and festive appetizer!
Impress your guests this holiday season with a delicious Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip! This warm, creamy dip pairs perfectly with tart cranberries for a festive flavor that’s ideal for cozy gatherings. Simple to make and full of vibrant colors, it’s a great appetizer to bring to any celebration.
INGREDIENTS
- Cream Cheese: 8 oz, softened to create a creamy, rich base for the dip.
- Sour Cream: 1 cup, adds a smooth tanginess that balances the richness of the cheese.
- Mozzarella Cheese: 1 cup, shredded, for a melty, gooey texture.
- White Cheddar Cheese: ½ cup, shredded, adding a sharp, savory flavor to the mix.
- Fresh Cranberries: 1 cup, for a burst of tart flavor and a beautiful red color that’s perfect for the holidays.
- Sugar: 2 tablespoons, coats the cranberries and adds a touch of sweetness to balance the tartness.
- Fresh Parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped, for a pop of color and garnish, adding freshness to the finished dip.
- Crackers, Breadsticks, or Crostini: for serving, perfect for dipping into the warm, creamy dip.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for baking the dip.
- Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Base
- In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, mozzarella, and white cheddar. Mix until well blended, creating a smooth, creamy base for the dip.
- Step 3: Coat the Cranberries
- In a separate bowl, toss the fresh cranberries with the sugar until they are evenly coated. This will add a touch of sweetness to balance the tart cranberries.
- Step 4: Assemble the Dip
- Spread the cheese mixture evenly into a baking dish, creating a smooth layer. Then, sprinkle the sugared cranberries on top, spreading them out to cover the cheese mixture.
- Step 5: Bake
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the cranberries begin to burst, releasing their juices.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve the dip warm straight from the oven, alongside a variety of dippables like crackers, breadsticks, or crostini.
- For added flavor, garnish with fresh parsley or a drizzle of honey for a hint of sweetness.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.
Helpful Notes
- Use full-fat cream cheese for the best creamy texture, but reduced-fat can be substituted if preferred.
- For an extra festive look, add a sprinkle of pomegranate seeds just before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
- If you prefer a slightly sweeter dip, increase the sugar coating on the cranberries or drizzle a touch of maple syrup on top.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Ina Garten recommends always using freshly grated cheese for the best melt and flavor in any baked cheese dip.
- Chef Bobby Flay suggests experimenting with flavored crackers, like rosemary or garlic, to pair with dips for added flavor.
- Chef Giada De Laurentiis loves using fresh herbs to add a final touch of color and brightness to creamy dishes.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- A beautiful, festive dish that’s perfect for holiday gatherings and looks as good as it tastes.
- The combination of creamy cheeses with tart cranberries makes each bite perfectly balanced.
- Quick and easy to make, this dip is ideal for last-minute entertaining.
Variations
- Add a sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts on top for a nutty crunch.
- Swap in different cheeses like fontina or gouda for a unique flavor twist.
- Experiment with herbs by adding thyme or rosemary to the cheese mixture for added depth.