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.