Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip Recipe

Introduction

Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip is a delightful and festive appetizer that’s perfect for any gathering. Creamy, tangy, and topped with melted cheese and crunchy pecans, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Serve it warm with crackers or bread for easy entertaining.

Ingredients

• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup cranberry sauce
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans
• Crackers or bread for serving

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Step 2: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and cranberry sauce until well mixed.
3. Step 3: Spread the mixture evenly into a small baking dish.
4. Step 4: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and chopped pecans evenly over the top.
5. Step 5: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Step 6: Serve hot with crackers or bread for dipping.

Tips & Variations

• You can use homemade cranberry sauce or canned for convenience without compromising flavor.
• Try drizzling a little honey on top before baking for an extra touch of sweetness.
• For a nut-free version, omit the pecans and sprinkle with extra cheese or fresh herbs instead.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in short bursts to avoid overheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mixture and assemble the dip in the baking dish a few hours ahead. Keep it covered in the refrigerator and bake just before serving.

What can I use instead of cream cheese?

For a lighter option, you can substitute with mascarpone or ricotta cheese, though the texture and flavor will be slightly different.

Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip Recipe

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4.5 from 122 reviews

This Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip is a delicious and festive appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings or any get-together. Cream cheese blended with tangy cranberry sauce, topped with melted mozzarella and crunchy pecans, served warm with crackers or bread for dipping.

• Author: Dana
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
• Total Time: 25-30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6–8 as an appetizer 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

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Dip Base

• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup cranberry sauce

Topping

• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans

Serving

• Crackers or bread for serving

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the dip.
2. Mix Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the softened cream cheese and cranberry sauce until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
3. Prepare Baking Dish: Spread the cream cheese and cranberry mixture evenly into a small baking dish, ensuring an even layer for baking.
4. Add Toppings: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese and chopped pecans evenly over the top of the cream cheese mixture to create a melty, crunchy topping.
5. Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese has melted completely and is bubbly.
6. Serve: Remove from the oven and serve the dip hot with crackers or slices of bread for dipping and scooping.

Notes

• You can use homemade cranberry sauce or canned cranberry sauce for convenience.
• For added sweetness, drizzle honey on top of the dip before baking.

Keywords: cranberry cream cheese dip, baked dip, holiday appetizer, cranberry sauce dip, cream cheese appetizer