This Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip is a cozy mix of creamy cheese and sweet-tart cranberries. It’s perfect for sharing at parties or just enjoying on a quiet night!
I love how easy it is to whip up, and the warm, gooey cheese is hard to resist. Serve it with crackers or bread, and watch everyone come back for more! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: This is the star of the dip, providing that creamy base. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use low-fat cream cheese or even Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries are ideal, but frozen ones work just as well. If you can’t find cranberries, use dried cranberries mixed with a bit of water to rehydrate them, or try cherry pie filling for a sweet alternative.
Granulated Sugar: Regular sugar is perfect for sweetness, but if you’re cutting down on sugar, consider using honey or a sugar substitute like Stevia. Just remember to adjust to taste.
Vanilla Extract: It adds a lovely depth of flavor. If you’re out of vanilla, almond extract can work in a pinch, giving a different but delicious flavor profile.
Orange Juice: This enhances the cranberry flavor. If you don’t have orange juice, lemon juice is a good substitute, though it will add more tartness.
How Do I Make the Cranberry Mixture Pourable?
The cranberry mixture is a key component in this dip, and getting it just right makes all the difference. Here’s how to ensure it’s perfectly pourable and thick:
- Start with fresh or frozen cranberries. If using frozen, there’s no need to thaw them; they’ll break down easily while cooking.
- Cook them with sugar over medium heat until they burst, and stir occasionally. This typically takes about 10 minutes.
- If the mixture seems too thick, add 1 tablespoon of orange juice or water gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
- Make sure to taste it! You might want to add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
Don’t rush this step, as this is where you’ll unlock the fruit’s natural flavors!
Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp orange juice or water (optional, to help cranberry sauce consistency)
- Salt, a pinch (optional)
- Crackers or sliced bread, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dip comes together in about 10 minutes of prep time, plus an additional 20 minutes to bake. Overall, you’ll have about 30 minutes before you can dig into this delicious treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your dip gets perfectly warm and bubbly.
2. Cook the Cranberry Mixture:
In a small saucepan, combine the fresh or frozen cranberries and granulated sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You’ll want to keep an eye on it until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens a bit—this usually takes about 10 minutes. If it’s too thick, feel free to add a tablespoon of orange juice or water.
3. Prepare the Cream Cheese Base:
In a small baking dish, spread the softened cream cheese evenly across the bottom. It’s easier to work with if the cream cheese is at room temperature.
4. Add the Cranberry Mixture:
Spoon the warm cranberry mixture over the cream cheese. Get creative! Gently swirl it to create a beautiful marbled effect that looks as good as it tastes.
5. Bake the Dip:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the dip is warm and bubbly, filling your kitchen with an inviting aroma!
6. Cool and Serve:
After baking, remove the dip from the oven and let it cool slightly. This will make it easier to serve. Grab your favorite crackers or sliced bread for dipping!
7. Enjoy!
Dig in and enjoy the creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors of this wonderful dip, perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in. It’s a sure-hit at any gathering!
Can I Use Low-Fat Cream Cheese?
Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese if you want a lighter option. It will still provide creaminess, but the dip may be slightly less rich.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the oven or microwave until heated through, adding a splash of cream if needed for extra creaminess.
Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cranberry mixture and spread the cream cheese in advance, then cover and refrigerate. Just bake it right before serving for the best results!
What Can I Serve with This Dip?
This dip pairs beautifully with a variety of dippers! Try serving it with crackers, toasted bread, or even apple slices for a sweet and savory experience. Enjoy the delicious combinations!
