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Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip Recipe

4.4 from 65 reviews

This Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip is a deliciously creamy and tangy appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings or any party. Combining smooth cream cheese, tart cranberry sauce, savory cheddar, and warm spices, this dip bakes to a bubbly golden perfection and can be garnished with fresh parsley for an extra touch of color and flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup cooked cranberry sauce or whole berry sauce
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the dip.
  2. Mix Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, thoroughly combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, cranberry sauce, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until smooth and well blended.
  3. Transfer to Baking Dish: Spoon the mixture into a baking dish, smoothing the top evenly to ensure consistent baking.
  4. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is bubbly and has a golden brown top.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven, optionally sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color, and serve warm with crackers or bread.

Notes

  • You can use store-bought or homemade cranberry sauce depending on availability and preference.
  • For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of ground cloves or allspice along with the cinnamon and nutmeg.
  • This dip pairs well with assorted crackers, toasted baguette slices, or vegetable sticks.
  • Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easier mixing and smoother texture.
  • If you prefer a less sweet dip, reduce or omit the brown sugar.

Keywords: cranberry dip, cream cheese dip, baked appetizer, holiday dip, cheese dip, cranberry sauce recipe