Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip Recipe
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.
- Author: Leo
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
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)
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the dip.
- 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.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Spoon the mixture into a baking dish, smoothing the top evenly to ensure consistent baking.
- 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.
- 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