Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip

Name: Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup sugar; 1 cup cranberry sauce; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Elevate your appetizer spread with this Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip, a luscious blend of creamy cheese and tart cranberries, baked until bubbly and golden. Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy get-togethers, this dip offers a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors that will leave your guests craving more. Serve it warm with crispy crackers or fresh bread for an unforgettable treat.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-11-18T07:22:11.205Z

This dip is a festive favorite that combines creamy and tart flavors, making it a must-have for your holiday parties.

        Why You'll Love It
        Delicious combination of sweet and savory
Perfect for any gathering
Easily customizable with your favorite toppings

      

The Perfect Holiday Appetizer

This Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip is not just a dish; it's an experience that captures the essence of holiday gatherings. When served warm, the creamy dip offers a comforting contrast to the crispness of crackers or the chewiness of fresh bread. Its vibrant colors also add a festive touch to your appetizer table, making it visually appealing. Whether you’re hosting a family reunion or a casual get-together with friends, this dip is guaranteed to impress your guests and be the highlight of the evening.

The combination of cream cheese and cheddar cheese provides a rich and creamy base, while the cranberry sauce adds a pop of tartness, balancing the flavors perfectly. This dish invites everyone to indulge, creating a shared moment of joy as you all gather around the table to savor each bite. You may just find this dip becoming a cherished tradition at your events, requested by friends and family alike.

Customizing Your Dip

One of the best aspects of the Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip is its versatility. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite toppings or adjusting the ingredients to suit your taste. For instance, if you're a fan of spicy flavors, consider adding finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. Alternatively, a sprinkle of fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can enhance the aroma and flavor profile, providing a touch of freshness to each bite.

Feel free to swap out the pecans for other nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, or even include a mix for more texture. Additionally, you can explore different types of cheese to create your own unique version of this dip, like using gouda for a smoky flavor or mozzarella for extra stretchiness. Let your creativity shine as you craft a version of this dip that is personal to you, ensuring that every gathering has its own flavor twist.

Ingredients

For the Dip

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup sugar
1 cup cranberry sauce
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)

Serve with crackers or bread.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Mix the Ingredients

In a bowl, combine the cream cheese, sugar, cranberry sauce, cheddar cheese, vanilla extract, and chopped pecans.

Bake

Spread the mixture into a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.

Serve

Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving warm with crackers or bread.

Enjoy your delicious dip!

Tips for the Best Results

To ensure your dip comes out perfectly creamy and smooth, make sure to soften the cream cheese thoroughly before mixing. You can leave it at room temperature for about an hour or use a microwave in short bursts to soften it quickly. This will help in achieving a uniform consistency as you blend in the other ingredients, leading to a more enjoyable texture in the final dish.

When baking the dip, keep an eye on it during the last few minutes to avoid overcooking. Every oven is different, and you want your dip to be bubbly and golden but not burnt. If you find it nice and golden but not bubbly enough, you can use the broiler for a minute or two at the end. Just be cautious and watch it closely, as it can change quickly.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. While the dip is best enjoyed fresh, you can still savor the flavors later. To reheat, gently warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15–20 minutes or until it’s heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally to redistribute the heat evenly. Just be aware that reheating may change the texture slightly, but the flavor will still remain delightful.

If you're planning to make this dip ahead of time for an event, consider preparing it a day in advance. Simply assemble it in the baking dish and cover it tightly. When you're ready to serve, just pop it in the oven. This time-saving tip allows you to spend more time with your guests while still providing them with a warm, delectable appetizer.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dip a day in advance and refrigerate it. Bake just before serving.

→ What can I serve with this dip?

Pairs well with crackers, sliced baguettes, or fresh vegetable sticks.