If you’re looking for a show-stopping appetizer that’s comforting, festive, and downright irresistible, this Baked Cream Cheese Cranberry Dip Recipe is your new best friend. Imagine a creamy, cheesy base perfectly complemented by bursts of tart, sugared cranberries baked until bubbling and golden on top. It’s a warm, cozy dip that brings a beautiful pop of color and flavor to every gathering, whether it’s a holiday party or a casual snack session. The best part? It’s incredibly simple to make yet packs a flavorful punch that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Baked Cream Cheese Cranberry Dip Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredient list. Each element is essential, working together to build layers of creamy richness, tangy freshness, and a chewy, cheesy texture that you can’t resist. Plus, the cranberries add a festive splash of color that makes this dish as pretty as it is tasty.
- Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): This is the creamy foundation of the dip, giving it that luscious, smooth texture.
- Sour cream (1 cup): Adds a slight tang and richness to balance the cream cheese.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 cup): Melts beautifully, creating a stretchy, gooey effect.
- Shredded white cheddar cheese (½ cup): Brings a sharper flavor contrast for depth.
- Fresh cranberries (1 cup): Offers tart bursts wrapped in sweetness when baked with sugar.
- Sugar (2 tbsp): Coats the cranberries to mellow their tartness and help them caramelize slightly.
- Fresh parsley (2 tbsp, chopped): Adds a fresh, herbal note and a splash of green for garnish.
- Crackers, breadsticks, or crostini: Essential for scooping up every delicious bite.
How to Make Baked Cream Cheese Cranberry Dip Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preheating ensures the dip will bake evenly and the cheese will melt to that perfect bubbly consistency.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Base
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, shredded mozzarella, and white cheddar. Blend them together until you have a smooth, evenly mixed base. This creamy mixture is the heart of your dip and sets the stage for the cranberries’ vibrant contrast.
Step 3: Coat the Cranberries with Sugar
Take the fresh cranberries and toss them in a separate bowl with the sugar until each berry is well coated. This step sweetens the cranberries just enough to balance their natural tartness and helps them pop deliciously once baked.
Step 4: Assemble the Dip
Spread the creamy cheese mixture evenly into your chosen baking dish. Next, scatter the sugared cranberries on top, arranging them so they cover the surface beautifully. This layering makes sure each bite has both creamy and fruity flavors.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the assembled dip in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes. You’re looking for that wonderful bubble in the cheese and cranberries starting to burst and release their juices, infusing the dip with a glossy, vibrant finish.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve Warm
Once baked, pull the dish out of the oven and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top. This final touch adds a pop of color along with a refreshing herbal aroma that complements the richness beautifully. Serve immediately with your favorite crackers, breadsticks, or crostini for dipping.
How to Serve Baked Cream Cheese Cranberry Dip Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley not only brightens the look but also adds a subtle freshness that cuts through the richness. If you want to get fancy, some toasted pecans or a drizzle of honey can add an unexpected, delightful twist.
Side Dishes
This dip pairs perfectly with a variety of dippables—think crunchy crackers, grilled bread slices, crispy crostini, or even crisp vegetables. It also fits right alongside a charcuterie board for an elegant appetizer spread.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive flair, serve the dip in a hollowed-out bread bowl or individual mini ramekins. You could even top it with a few whole sugared cranberries or a sprig of rosemary to make it really stand out on your party table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover Baked Cream Cheese Cranberry Dip can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just cover it tightly to keep the flavors fresh and prevent the dip from drying out.
Freezing
This dip can be frozen, but with a bit of caution. Place it in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating gently.
Reheating
To reheat, transfer the dip to an oven-safe dish and warm it at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and bubbly again. Stir halfway through to ensure even warmth and maintain that creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh for this dip?
While fresh cranberries yield the best texture and color, frozen cranberries can work in a pinch. Just be sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before tossing with sugar to avoid a soggy dip.
Is there a dairy-free alternative for the cheeses in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use dairy-free cream cheese and sour cream substitutes along with plant-based shredded cheeses. The texture might vary slightly, but the flavor will still be deliciously satisfying.
Can I prepare the dip ahead of time and bake it later?
Yes, you can assemble the dip and cover it tightly in the baking dish, refrigerating it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
What’s the best way to serve this dip at a party?
Serve it warm with plenty of dippers like crackers, toasted baguette slices, or vegetable sticks. Placing the dip on a small warming tray or in a slow cooker set to warm helps keep it invitingly melty throughout your gathering.
Can I add other fruits or nuts to the dip for variation?
Definitely! Chopped dried apricots, chopped pecans, or even a sprinkle of pomegranate seeds can add interesting textures and flavors that complement the core ingredients beautifully.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Cream Cheese Cranberry Dip Recipe feels like a warm hug in appetizer form. Its creamy base paired with sweet-tart cranberries creates a flavor combo that’s comforting and festive all at once. Whether you’re treating yourself or impressing friends, this dip is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser you’ll want to make again and again. Grab those ingredients and start baking; I promise you won’t be disappointed!
Print
Baked Cream Cheese Cranberry Dip Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Baked Cream Cheese Cranberry Dip is a deliciously creamy and tangy appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights. Combining smooth cream cheese, tangy sour cream, and a blend of mozzarella and white cheddar cheeses, topped with sweetened fresh cranberries and baked until bubbly, this dip offers a festive burst of flavors. Served warm with crackers, breadsticks, or crostini, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Cheese Base
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded white cheddar cheese
Cranberry Topping
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 2 tbsp sugar
Garnish and Serving
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Crackers, breadsticks, or crostini for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s at the right temperature for baking the dip evenly.
- Prepare the Cheese Base: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, shredded mozzarella, and white cheddar cheese. Mix thoroughly until you achieve a smooth and well-blended cheese mixture.
- Coat Cranberries: In a separate bowl, toss the fresh cranberries with sugar until all the berries are evenly coated with the sugar, which will enhance their sweetness and help them soften during baking.
- Assemble: Spread the cheese mixture evenly into a baking dish, creating a smooth layer. Then, evenly distribute the sugared cranberries on top of the cheese base.
- Bake: Place the assembled dish into the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the dip is bubbly and the cranberries start to burst, releasing their juices and mixing with the cheese.
- Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the dip from the oven and sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top. Serve the dip warm alongside crackers, breadsticks, or crostini for dipping.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh cranberries and not frozen, as they hold their shape better but still burst nicely during baking.
- You can substitute mozzarella with Monterey Jack or another mild melting cheese if desired.
- The sugar coating on cranberries can be adjusted based on your preference for sweetness.
- This dip is best served warm; if needed, reheat gently before serving.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through.
