Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip

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Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip – Warm, Sweet & Savory Holiday Magic

A creamy, cheesy dip swirled with tart cranberry sauce and baked to golden perfection—this appetizer is the ultimate holiday crowd-pleaser.

Introduction: The Dip That Disappears First

There’s always that one dish at a party that vanishes before you can even grab seconds. This Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip is that dish. With its velvety cream cheese base, melty cheddar, and a swirl of sweet-tart cranberry sauce, it’s a flavor explosion that hits every note—creamy, tangy, savory, and just a little sweet.

Perfect for holiday gatherings, Friendsgiving, or cozy winter nights, this dip is easy to make and even easier to devour. Serve it warm with crackers, crostini, or fresh veggies, and watch it disappear in minutes.

Ingredients Breakdown

Let’s take a closer look at what makes this dip so irresistible:

Creamy Base:

  • Cream cheese (8 oz, softened)
    Rich and smooth—forms the luscious foundation of the dip.
  • Sour cream (½ cup)
    Adds tang and lightens the texture.
  • Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup)
    Melts into gooey, savory goodness.

Flavor Boosters:

  • Cranberry sauce (½ cup, whole berry or homemade)
    Adds tart sweetness and festive flair.
  • Brown sugar (1 tbsp)
    Enhances the cranberry’s natural sweetness and deepens the flavor.
  • Ground cinnamon (½ tsp)
    Adds warmth and spice.
  • Nutmeg (¼ tsp)
    Adds a subtle, cozy note.

Garnish (Optional):

  • Chopped fresh parsley (1 tbsp)
    Adds color and a fresh finish.

Optional: A sprig of rosemary or a few pomegranate seeds for extra holiday sparkle.

Equipment Needed

  • Mixing bowl
  • Hand mixer or spatula
  • Small baking dish (8×8 or similar)
  • Oven
  • Spoon or knife for swirling
  • Serving platter

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prep

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

Lightly grease a small baking dish.

Step 2: Mix the Base

In a mixing bowl:

  • Combine 8 oz softened cream cheese, ½ cup sour cream, and 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese.

Mix until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Add the Flavor

Stir in:

  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • ½ tsp cinnamon
  • ¼ tsp nutmeg

Mix until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Assemble the Dip

Spread the cheese mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.

Spoon ½ cup cranberry sauce over the top.

Use a knife or spoon to gently swirl the cranberry sauce into the cheese mixture.

Tip: Don’t overmix—you want beautiful ribbons of cranberry throughout.

Step 5: Bake

Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until:

  • Bubbly around the edges
  • Lightly golden on top

Let cool slightly before serving.

Step 6: Garnish & Serve

Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley or a sprig of rosemary.

Serve warm with:

  • Crackers
  • Crostini
  • Pita chips
  • Apple slices or celery sticks

Yields:

  • 6–8 servings

Presentation Tip: Serve in a festive dish or mini cast iron skillet for rustic charm.

Serving Suggestions

Perfect for:

  • Holiday parties
  • Thanksgiving appetizers
  • Winter potlucks
  • Cozy movie nights

Pair with:

  • Sparkling cider or mulled wine
  • A charcuterie board
  • Roasted nuts or olives

Tip: Double the recipe for larger gatherings—it goes fast!

Variations to Try

Want to make it your own? Try these delicious twists:

Savory Herb

Add chopped rosemary or thyme to the cheese mixture.

Spicy Kick

Stir in a pinch of cayenne or top with sliced jalapeños.

Bacon Bliss

Add crumbled cooked bacon for smoky richness.

Vegan Version

Use plant-based cream cheese, sour cream, and cheddar.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

  • Make-Ahead: Assemble up to 1 day in advance and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat: Warm in oven at 325°F for 10–15 minutes.

Tip: Add a splash of milk or cream before reheating to refresh texture.

Nutrition Notes (Per Serving, ~1 of 8)

  • Calories: ~190
  • Protein: ~5g
  • Carbohydrates: ~6g
  • Fat: ~16g
  • Sugar: ~4g
  • Sodium: ~180mg
  • Fiber: ~0.5g

This dip is:

  • Creamy and cheesy
  • Sweet and savory
  • Perfectly portioned
  • Great for sharing

Final Thoughts

This Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip is more than just an appetizer—it’s a celebration of flavor, warmth, and togetherness. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or just craving something cozy, it’s guaranteed to impress and satisfy.

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