Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip is a festive treat that brings warm flavors together with a creamy, cheesy texture. Every bite is a perfect mix of sweet and savory, making it an ideal snack for gatherings or cozy nights in.

I can still picture my dad, James, diving into this dip at our family gatherings. My mom, Eva, would spend hours making it just right, and my sister, Jennifer, always made sure to have enough crackers for everyone. Those memories make this recipe so special for me.

Your Ingredients List

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sour cream
1 cup cranberry sauce (canned or homemade)
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Crackers or veggie sticks for serving

My Go-To Equipment

This is a simple dish, so you won’t need much. Just grab a mixing bowl, a baking dish, and a spatula. A hand mixer can also help to make the mixing easier.

The Simple Steps to Follow

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and salt and pepper, mixing until smooth.
Fold in the cranberry sauce and shredded cheddar cheese, and mix well. If using, add the chopped walnuts.
Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and spread it evenly.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
Remove from oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
Serve warm with crackers or veggie sticks.

Healthy Twists on a Classic

You can swap the cream cheese with Greek yogurt for a lighter option. If you’re looking to reduce carbs, try using reduced-fat cream cheese. You can also add fresh herbs for an extra layer of flavor, like chives or parsley.

Serving Suggestions From My Table

This dip pairs perfectly with hearty crackers or fresh veggie sticks. I love using cucumber slices and bell pepper strips for a colorful platter. You could also serve it with pita chips or toasted baguette slices for a tasty crunch.

Getting It Just Right

To make sure your dip comes out perfectly, let the cream cheese soften fully before mixing. If you fold in the ingredients carefully, you’ll keep the dip light and airy. Aim for a bubbly and golden top when baking, as it adds extra warmth and flavor.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. The dip will stay fresh for about three days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Enjoy Every Moment

Making this Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip is a delightful experience. Gather your friends and family, dig into this warm treat, and share the joy of good food and great company!

A Few Common Questions

How do I make Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip less sweet?

You can reduce the amount of cranberry sauce or use a tart variety if preferred. Additionally, adding more cream cheese or sour cream can balance the sweetness.

Can I make Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dip and place it in the baking dish a day in advance. Just cover it and keep it in the fridge. When ready to serve, bake it right before your guests arrive.

What can I substitute for walnuts in Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip?

If you want to skip the walnuts, feel free to leave them out entirely. You can also substitute them with sunflower seeds or toasted pecans for a different crunch.

Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip

Author: sarah
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

A festive treat that combines warm flavors with a creamy, cheesy texture, making it an ideal snack for gatherings or cozy nights in.

Ingredients

Scale

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sour cream
1 cup cranberry sauce (canned or homemade)
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Crackers or veggie sticks for serving

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and salt and pepper, mixing until smooth.
Fold in the cranberry sauce and shredded cheddar cheese, mixing well. If using, add the chopped walnuts.
Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and spread it evenly.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
Remove from oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
Serve warm with crackers or veggie sticks.

Notes

For a lighter option, swap the cream cheese with Greek yogurt. You can also add fresh herbs like chives or parsley for extra flavor.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 250
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 300mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 6g
Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: dip, cranberry, cream cheese, appetizer, holiday