This Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip is a sweet and creamy delight! With a buttery crust and tangy cranberry topping, it’s perfect for sharing at parties or cozy gatherings.
Honestly, who can resist a warm dip that’s both cheesy and fruity? I love serving it with crackers or toasted bread—it disappears so fast, it’s like magic! 🪄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: This is the base of the dip, providing creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use reduced-fat cream cheese, or for a dairy-free version, try vegan cream cheese.
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries are great, but if they’re out of season, frozen cranberries work just as well. You can also use dried cranberries for a sweeter touch, but they’ll change the dip’s texture a bit.
Granulated Sugar: This sweetens up the tart cranberries. If you want to cut down on sugar, consider using honey or maple syrup, but adjust the quantity to taste since they can be sweeter than granulated sugar.
Fresh Rosemary: Rosemary adds a nice touch of flavor, but if it’s not available, you could substitute with fresh thyme or omit it altogether for a purely sweet dip.
How Do I Ensure My Dip is Perfectly Creamy?
The key to a smooth and creamy dip is starting with softened cream cheese. This makes it easier to blend without lumps. Here’s how to achieve that perfect creaminess:
- Let the cream cheese sit out at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before using it.
- For easier spreading, you can microwave the cream cheese for about 15-20 seconds, but keep an eye on it to avoid melting.
- Mix the cream cheese until it’s fluffy before layering it with the cranberries. This ensures an even texture when baked.
By paying attention to these details, your dip will turn out smooth and delicious every time!
How to Make Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Salt, a pinch
- Crackers or toasted bread, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, with an additional 20-25 minutes for baking. In total, you’ll need around 30-35 minutes to have this delicious dip ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your dip will bake evenly and come out perfectly creamy.
2. Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer:
In a mixing bowl, take the softened cream cheese and spread it evenly in the bottom of a small baking dish. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to smooth it out. This creamy layer is the base of your delicious dip!
3. Mix the Cranberries:
In another bowl, combine the cranberries and granulated sugar. Give it a good stir to coat the cranberries with the sugar. If you’d like, add a pinch of salt to bring out the flavors!
4. Assemble the Dip:
Now, spread the sugared cranberries evenly over the cream cheese layer in your baking dish. Make sure to cover the cream cheese well—this will be the tangy topping!
5. Bake the Dip:
Carefully place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are bubbly and the top is slightly golden. The aroma will be delicious!
6. Garnish:
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven. For a fresh touch, sprinkle finely chopped rosemary over the top of your dip. This optional step adds a lovely flavor and looks great!
7. Cool & Serve:
Let your dip cool slightly before serving. It’s best enjoyed warm, so pair it with some crunchy crackers or toasted bread. You can also serve it with fresh fruit for a nice contrast!
Enjoy this warm, creamy, tangy-sweet dip that’s perfect for festive parties or cozy gatherings!
Can I Use Different Types of Cranberries?
Absolutely! While fresh cranberries give the best tart flavor, you can use frozen cranberries if that’s what you have on hand. Just make sure to thaw them before mixing with the sugar.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at a low temperature or microwave it for a few seconds until heated through.
Can This Be Made Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the dip in advance! Assemble it and cover it tightly, then store it in the refrigerator for up to a day. Bake just before serving, but you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
What Can I Serve with the Dip?
This dip pairs wonderfully with a variety of options! Try serving it with crackers, toasted bread, or even apple slices. It’s also great with pita chips for a fun twist!
