The moment you dip your chip into a warm, luscious Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip (Baked!), you know you’re in for a treat. The rich cream cheese melds perfectly with the tangy cranberries, creating a flavor explosion that dances on your palate. sweet and creamy peanut butter cookies Picture this: it’s game day, and you’re surrounded by friends, laughter, and the irresistible aroma of this heavenly dip wafting through the air. gooey butter cookies blueberry muffin cookies churro cheesecake cookies.
I remember the first time I made this Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip (Baked!). My friends couldn’t stop raving about it during our holiday get-together. It has become a staple at every gathering, making me the unofficial dip queen among my crew! For more inspiration, check out this Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole recipe.
[info_box title=”Why You’ll Love This Recipe”] This easy-to-make dip combines creamy and tart flavors that everyone will love. It looks gorgeous on any table with its vibrant colors. Perfect for parties or cozy nights in, it’s incredibly versatile and pairs well with various snacks. Plus, it’s baked to perfection, giving it a delightful golden crust that adds a lovely texture. [/info_box]
I whipped up this recipe at last year’s Thanksgiving dinner, and the smiles on my family’s faces were priceless.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Cream Cheese: Use full-fat cream cheese for a rich and creamy texture that holds everything together beautifully.
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Dried Cranberries: Opt for sweetened dried cranberries to balance the creaminess with just the right amount of tartness.
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Green Onions: Fresh green onions add a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that brightens the dip.
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Chopped Walnuts: These add crunch and nuttiness; toast them slightly for extra flavor.
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Sour Cream: A touch of sour cream enhances the creaminess while adding a bit of tang.
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Shredded Cheese: A blend of sharp cheddar or mozzarella works wonders for that cheesy goodness on top!
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Garlic Powder: For depth of flavor; fresh garlic can be used if you prefer more bite.
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Dried Thyme: A sprinkle adds an aromatic layer that complements the cranberries perfectly.
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Black Pepper: Freshly cracked pepper gives just the right kick without overpowering other flavors.
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Chips or Crackers: Choose sturdy chips or crackers for dipping; they should hold up to all that creamy goodness!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make It Together
Preheat & Prepare: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab an 8-inch baking dish and lightly grease it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Mix It Up!: In a large mixing bowl, beat together softened cream cheese and sour cream until smooth. Add dried cranberries, green onions, walnuts, garlic powder, thyme, black pepper, and half of your shredded cheese.
Spoon & Spread: Transfer your creamy mixture into the greased baking dish. Smooth out the top with a spatula so it bakes evenly.
Add More Cheese!: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese generously over the top. This will create that beautiful golden crust we all crave!
Bake Away!: Place it in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown. You’ll know it’s done when you catch that amazing aroma filling your kitchen.
Serve & Enjoy!: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Serve warm with chips or crackers for dipping—your guests won’t be able to resist!
With each scoop of this Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip (Baked!), you’ll create memories filled with laughter and joy while enjoying its incredible flavors. Whether it’s game night or holiday festivities, this dip is sure to steal the show. So gather your friends around, dig in, and let those taste buds dance!
[info_box title=”You Must Know”] This delicious Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip (Baked!) is an absolute crowd-pleaser. The creamy texture combined with the tartness of the cranberries creates a perfect balance, making it irresistible. Plus, it’s simple to prepare and can be made ahead for convenience. [/info_box]
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by mixing the cream cheese and cranberries until smooth, then fold in any additional ingredients before baking. This ensures even flavor distribution and a delightful texture.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to personalize your dip by adding nuts for crunch or spices like cinnamon for warmth. These tweaks can elevate the dish to new levels.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, keeping it creamy.
[info_box title=”Chef’s Helpful Tips”] To achieve a velvety consistency, let the cream cheese soften at room temperature before mixing. Avoid overmixing to maintain some cranberry chunks for texture. Serve warm with crackers or bread for delightful dipping. [/info_box]
The first time I made this Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip (Baked!), my friends devoured it in minutes! Their compliments were music to my ears, making me feel like a culinary rock star.
FAQ
Can I use frozen cranberries for this dip?
Yes, frozen cranberries work just fine; thaw them before mixing into the dip.
How can I make this dip healthier?
Consider using low-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt to reduce calories while keeping flavor.
What should I serve with Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip (Baked!)?
Serve with assorted crackers, toasted baguette slices, or fresh vegetables for dipping options.
Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip (Baked)
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x
Description
Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip (Baked) is the ultimate crowd-pleaser for any gathering. This warm and creamy dip features a delightful balance of rich cream cheese, sweet tangy cranberries, and crunchy walnuts, all baked to golden perfection. Its vibrant colors make it a showstopper on your table, while its irresistible flavors guarantee that guests will keep coming back for more. Perfect for game day, holiday parties, or cozy nights in, this easy recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup dried cranberries (sweetened)
- 2 green onions (chopped)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (toasted)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheese (sharp cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Sturdy chips or crackers for serving
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease an 8-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, mix softened cream cheese and sour cream until smooth.
- Stir in dried cranberries, green onions, walnuts, garlic powder, thyme, black pepper, and half of the shredded cheese.
- Transfer the mixture to the greased baking dish and smooth the top.
- Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese on top.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving with chips or crackers.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup (100g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 360mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
