This baked cranberry cream cheese dip is a fun and yummy treat! It combines tangy cranberries with creamy cheese, making it perfect for dipping with crackers or bread.
Every time I make this dip, it’s a hit at parties! The warm, cheesy goodness and fruity bursts are too good to resist. I could snack on it all day. 😋
Plus, it’s super easy to whip up! Just mix, bake, and enjoy. It’s a must-try for any gathering or cozy night in!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: This is the base of the dip, providing creaminess. I usually go for full-fat cream cheese for the best texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can try reduced-fat cream cheese or a dairy-free alternative like vegan cream cheese.
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries are great, but frozen ones work just as well and can save you a trip to the store when fresh ones aren’t in season. If you prefer, you can use dried cranberries, just remember they are sweeter, so adjust sugar accordingly.
Sugars: Granulated sugar sweetens the cranberry mixture while powdered sugar sweetens the cream. You can swap granulated sugar with honey or maple syrup, but note that these may change the consistency a bit.
Heavy Cream: This adds fluffiness. If you need a lighter option, consider using low-fat milk, though the dip may not be as thick and creamy. You can also use coconut cream for a dairy-free version!
Orange Zest: While optional, it brings a bright flavor. If you don’t have orange, lemon zest is a good alternative, or you could leave it out altogether.
How Do I Ensure a Silky-Smooth Cream Cheese Mixture?
Getting the cream cheese perfectly smooth is key to a great dip. Start with softened cream cheese; this means letting it sit out for about 30 minutes before mixing. It should be soft enough to beat well.
- Use an electric mixer for super smooth results. Beat it until there are no lumps.
- Don’t rush folding in the whipped cream. Gently combine to keep the mixture airy.
- Scrape the sides of the bowl often to ensure everything mixes well together.
With these tips, you’ll have a luscious, creamy dip that everyone will love!
Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or whipping cream
- 1 teaspoon orange zest (optional, for added citrus flavor)
- Crackers or toasted bread, for serving
- Fresh herbs (such as dill or parsley) for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dip will take about 15 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of baking time. In total, you’ll need around 35-40 minutes to get this creamy goodness ready for your snack table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s hot and ready for your dip when you put it in.
2. Prepare the Cranberry Mixture
In a small saucepan over medium heat, throw in the fresh or frozen cranberries, granulated sugar, and water. Cook this mix for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until you see the cranberries start to burst and the mixture thickens around them. Once done, remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let it cool for a moment.
3. Mix the Cream Cheese
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s luxuriously smooth and creamy. Use an electric mixer if you’ve got one; it makes the job a breeze!
4. Whip the Cream
In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until it forms soft peaks. Slowly add in the powdered sugar while continuing to whip until you achieve stiff peaks. This makes the dip wonderfully airy!
5. Combine Them Gently
Now, gently fold the whipped cream into the creamy cheese mixture. Make sure not to over-mix; you want to keep it light and fluffy!
6. Assemble the Dip
Pour this luscious cream cheese mixture into an oven-safe dish, like a pie plate. Then, take your cooled cranberry mixture and spoon it on top in dollops. With a knife or skewer, swirl the cranberries into the cream cheese for that beautiful marbled look!
7. Bake It!
Place your dish in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. You want to heat it through until it’s slightly bubbling around the edges.
8. Serve It Warm
After removing the dish from the oven, let it cool a bit before serving. If you’d like, you can garnish with fresh herbs or extra cranberries for a lovely touch. Serve it warm with your favorite crackers or toasted bread.
Enjoy this creamy, tangy, and sweet baked dip as a delightful appetizer or party snack! It’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Can I Use Low-Fat Cream Cheese Instead?
Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese! It will work fine, but keep in mind that the dip might not be as rich and creamy as with full-fat cream cheese. Make sure it’s softened for easier mixing.
Can I Prepare the Dip in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cranberry mixture and the cream cheese layer a day ahead. Keep them separate in the fridge and mix them just before baking to maintain the dip’s fluffiness. Bake it just before serving!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave it for a quick reheat, though the texture may not be as nice.
What Can I Serve With This Dip?
This dip pairs perfectly with crackers, toasted bread, or even fresh vegetable sticks. You can also serve it alongside cheese platters for a delicious contrast of flavors!
