Baked Cream Cheese Cranberry Dip

This Baked Cream Cheese Cranberry Dip is a deliciously indulgent appetizer that’s perfect for any gathering, especially during the holiday season. Combining the creamy richness of cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise with the sweetness of dried cranberries and the crunch of toasted pecans, this dip is a balance of textures and flavors that everyone will love. The warmth from the oven brings it all together, creating a gooey, bubbly dip that’s sure to be the star of your appetizer spread. Paired with crackers or fresh bread, this dip is the ideal combination of sweet, savory, and creamy.

What makes this dip truly special is its easy preparation. With just a few simple ingredients, you can have a crowd-pleasing dish in no time. The dried cranberries add a festive touch, making it perfect for holiday parties or family gatherings. Whether you’re hosting a Christmas dinner or a casual get-together, this dip is sure to be a hit with its delightful flavor and inviting warmth. Let’s dive into how you can make this irresistible dip and bring a little extra joy to your next event.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Baked Cream Cheese Cranberry Dip is a versatile and crowd-pleasing appetizer that brings together the creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors everyone loves. The combination of cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise creates a velvety base, while the brown sugar and vanilla extract add just the right amount of sweetness. The dried cranberries give the dip a burst of tartness and color, while the pecans add a satisfying crunch. The result is a dip that’s not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it the perfect addition to any holiday party or family gathering. It’s quick to prepare, easy to serve, and will be the first dish to disappear from the table.

Ingredients

For the dip:

• Cream cheese
• Sour cream
• Mayonnaise
• Dried cranberries
• Chopped pecans
• Brown sugar
• Vanilla extract
• Cinnamon

Variations

• Fresh Cranberries: If you prefer fresh cranberries, chop them finely and fold them into the mixture for a fresh, tart bite.
• Nuts: You can use other nuts such as walnuts or almonds in place of pecans for a different texture and flavor.
• Spiced Version: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the cinnamon for an extra layer of warmth.
• Herb Twist: For a savory version, try adding a pinch of salt and some fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme, though it will change the flavor profile from sweet to savory.
• Vegan Version: Use vegan cream cheese, dairy-free sour cream, and a plant-based mayonnaise to make this dip vegan-friendly.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking.

Step 2: Mix the Base Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Use a hand mixer or a whisk to blend the ingredients until smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Add Cranberries and Pecans

Fold in the dried cranberries and chopped pecans. These will add a delightful texture and burst of flavor to the dip.

Step 4: Spread in a Baking Dish

Transfer the mixture into a small baking dish, spreading it evenly to ensure it bakes uniformly.

Step 5: Bake

Bake the dip in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until it’s heated through and bubbly around the edges.

Step 6: Serve Warm

Once baked, remove the dip from the oven and serve it warm with crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetables for dipping.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature before mixing. This will make it easier to blend and create a smoother dip.
• For an extra golden, bubbly topping, consider sprinkling a little bit of shredded cheese on top of the dip before baking.
• You can prep the dip ahead of time by mixing everything together and storing it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
• If you want a more pronounced cinnamon flavor, feel free to increase the amount of cinnamon to taste.
• For an even sweeter dip, add a bit more brown sugar or drizzle some honey on top before serving.

How to Serve

This Baked Cream Cheese Cranberry Dip is best served warm, so it’s nice and gooey. Pair it with an assortment of dipping options like buttery crackers, crusty bread, or sliced baguette. Fresh fruit like apple or pear slices also complement the dip’s flavors well. For a savory contrast, try offering raw vegetables like carrots, celery, or cucumber for a crunchy and refreshing balance to the rich dip.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The dip can be reheated in the microwave or in the oven before serving again. Just make sure to heat it gently to avoid drying it out.

Freezing

While it’s best served fresh, you can freeze the dip if necessary. After baking, allow it to cool completely, then cover it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until heated through.

Reheating

To reheat, place the dip back into a baking dish and cover it loosely with foil. Bake at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until it’s hot and bubbly. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be sure to do so in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

1. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese to reduce the calorie content, though the dip may be slightly less creamy.

2. Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?

Dried cranberries work best for this recipe as they are sweetened and have a chewy texture. If using fresh cranberries, you may need to adjust the sweetness and chop them finely.

3. Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dip the day before and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Simply bake it just before serving.

4. Can I add other fruits to the dip?

Yes, you can experiment with other dried fruits like raisins or chopped apricots for a different flavor.

5. How long should I bake the dip?

Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the dip is heated through and bubbly around the edges.

6. Can I substitute the pecans with another type of nut?

Yes, walnuts, almonds, or cashews would all work well in place of pecans.

7. Can I make this dip vegan?

Yes, you can substitute the cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise with vegan alternatives to make the dip vegan-friendly.

8. Can I serve this dip cold?

This dip is best served warm, as it has a creamy and gooey texture that’s more enjoyable when heated.

9. Can I add cheese to the dip?

Yes, you can sprinkle some shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella) on top of the dip for an extra cheesy layer before baking.

10. How should I serve this dip at a party?

Serve the dip with a variety of dippables like crackers, fresh bread, fruit, and vegetables to provide options for your guests.

Conclusion

This Baked Cream Cheese Cranberry Dip is the perfect balance of creamy, sweet, and savory flavors, making it an ideal choice for holiday gatherings, parties, or casual get-togethers. The combination of cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise creates a rich and velvety dip, while the dried cranberries and pecans add texture and a festive touch. Easy to prepare and sure to impress your guests, this dip will quickly become a favorite at your next event. Enjoy it warm, with your favorite crackers or bread, and watch it disappear from the table!

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