Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect for the Holidays – The bright red cranberries make this dip look festive and inviting.
• Easy to Make – Requires just a few ingredients and minimal prep.
• Sweet and Savory Balance – The sweetened cranberries complement the rich, cheesy base.
• Versatile – Pairs well with crackers, toasted bread, or even vegetables.
• Quick and Delicious – Ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for last-minute gatherings.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Cream cheese, softened
• Sour cream
• Shredded mozzarella cheese
• Shredded white cheddar cheese
• Fresh cranberries
• Sugar
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Crackers, breadsticks, or crostini for serving

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven – Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Cheese Base – In a medium bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, sour cream, mozzarella, and white cheddar until well combined.
3. Coat Cranberries – In a separate bowl, toss the cranberries with sugar until evenly coated.
4. Assemble – Spread the cheese mixture evenly into a baking dish, then top with the sugared cranberries.
5. Bake – Place in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the dip is bubbly and the cranberries begin to burst.
6. Garnish and Serve – Remove from the oven, sprinkle with chopped parsley, and serve warm with crackers or crostini.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: About 6 people
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
• Total Time: 25-30 minutes

Variations

• Nutty Crunch – Add chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking for a crunchy texture.
• Spicy Twist – Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
• Herb Infusion – Add fresh thyme or rosemary for an earthy flavor.
• Different Cheeses – Try swapping mozzarella for gouda or gruyère for a deeper flavor.
• Sweeter Cranberries – Use honey or maple syrup instead of sugar for a natural sweetness.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerate – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheat – Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or microwave in short bursts until heated through.
• Make Ahead – Assemble the dip (without baking) and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve.

FAQs

How do I keep the dip from becoming too runny?

Use full-fat cream cheese and sour cream to maintain a thick, creamy consistency.

Can I use frozen cranberries?

Yes, but thaw them first and pat them dry to prevent excess moisture.

What can I serve with this dip?

Crackers, crostini, toasted baguette slices, or even sliced apples pair well.

Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the dip and refrigerate it, then bake when you’re ready to serve.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! Gouda, gruyère, or sharp cheddar work well in this recipe.

Can I make this dip without sugar?

Yes, you can use honey, maple syrup, or leave the cranberries unsweetened for a more tart flavor.

Can I bake this in a cast-iron skillet?

Yes! A small cast-iron skillet works great for even heating and a rustic presentation.

How can I make this dip more savory?

Add a pinch of salt, garlic powder, or a little caramelized onion for extra depth of flavor.

Can I make this dip dairy-free?

Use dairy-free cream cheese, sour cream, and plant-based cheese alternatives.

What other toppings can I add?

Chopped nuts, pomegranate seeds, or a drizzle of honey can enhance the flavor and texture.

Conclusion

Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip is the perfect balance of creamy, sweet, and tangy flavors, making it a must-have for any gathering. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday party or a casual get-together, this easy and delicious dip is sure to be a hit. Try different variations to suit your taste, and enjoy every warm, melty bite!

Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip

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• Author: Isabella
• Total Time: 25-30 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip is a rich, creamy, and festive appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings. Made with a blend of melted cheeses and sweet-tart cranberries, this easy-to-make dip is a crowd-pleaser. Serve it warm with crackers or crostini for a deliciously indulgent treat!

 

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Ingredients

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup sour cream
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup shredded white cheddar cheese
• 1 cup fresh cranberries
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• Crackers, breadsticks, or crostini for serving

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Instructions

• Preheat the Oven – Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Prepare the Cheese Base – In a bowl, mix cream cheese, sour cream, mozzarella, and white cheddar until smooth.
• Coat the Cranberries – Toss cranberries with sugar in a separate bowl.
• Assemble the Dip – Spread the cheese mixture into a baking dish and top with sugared cranberries.
• Bake – Bake for 15-20 minutes until the dip is bubbly and cranberries begin to burst.
• Garnish & Serve – Sprinkle with parsley and serve warm with crackers or crostini.

Notes

• For added crunch, top with chopped pecans or walnuts before baking.
• For a spicy kick, mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes.
• Use honey or maple syrup instead of sugar for a natural sweetness.
• Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C).

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American