Description
This Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip combines creamy, tangy flavors with sweet cranberries and sharp cheddar, making it a perfect appetizer for gatherings. Serve it warm with crackers or vegetable sticks for a delightful treat that will impress your guests.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Crackers, baguette slices, or vegetable sticks for serving
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and sour cream. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Add the shredded cheddar cheese, sugar, chopped green onions, vanilla extract, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
- If using pecans, fold them into the mixture.
- In a separate bowl, toss the cranberries with olive oil and a sprinkle of sugar.
- If using frozen cranberries, thaw and drain any excess liquid.
- Gently fold the cranberries into the cream cheese mixture.
- Transfer the dip mixture into a baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the edges are bubbly and the top is lightly golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes.
- Garnish the dip with fresh parsley.
- Serve warm with an assortment of crackers, baguette slices, or vegetable sticks.
Notes
- You can prepare the dip mixture ahead of time and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking.
- For added flavor, consider a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg in the cranberry layer.
- For a spicy kick, add hot sauce or diced jalapeños to the cream cheese mixture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes