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Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip Recipe

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4.9 from 69 reviews

This Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip is a warm, creamy appetizer perfect for gatherings and holiday parties. Combining tangy cream cheese, sour cream, sharp cheddar, and sweet cranberry sauce, it bakes to bubbly perfection with a golden top and subtle warming spices of cinnamon and nutmeg. Easy to prepare and delightfully flavorful, it’s ideal for serving with crackers or bread.

Ingredients

Dip Ingredients

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup cooked cranberry sauce (or whole berry sauce)
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for baking the dip evenly.
  2. Mix Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, cranberry sauce, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated.
  3. Transfer to Baking Dish: Spoon the mixture into a baking dish, then use a spatula to smooth out the top evenly for consistent baking and an appealing finish.
  4. Bake the Dip: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is bubbly and the top is golden brown, signaling it is heated through and ready to serve.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Optionally, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor before serving with crackers or bread.

Notes

  • You can use either homemade or store-bought cranberry sauce based on your preference.
  • For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper.
  • This dip pairs wonderfully with assorted crackers, toasted baguette slices, or fresh vegetables.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated gently in the oven or microwave.
  • To make ahead, prepare the mixture and cover it in the baking dish; store in the fridge until ready to bake.