Imagine a dip so irresistibly creamy, tangy,
and warmly spiced that it becomes the undisputed star of your party spread.
This isn't just any appetizer; this is the Best Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese
Dip that promises to turn a few simple ingredients into a show-stopping
centerpiece. The magic happens in the oven, where sweet cranberry sauce melts
into lush cream cheese, creating a bubbly, gorgeous dish that looks as
incredible as it tastes. It’s the ultimate solution for busy hosts because it’s
deceptively easy, coming together in under 30 minutes, and is a guaranteed
crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The
Perfect Balance: Enjoy
the incredible contrast between the rich, velvety cream cheese and the
bright, sweet-tart cranberry topping.
- Effortless
Elegance: With
just 10 minutes of prep, this dip looks and tastes like it came from a
gourmet shop.
- Crowd-Pleasing
Favorite: Its
universally loved flavors make it a hit for everything from game day to
holiday dinners.
How to Make Best Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese
Dip
Quick Overview
A mere 10 minutes of prep for a dish that delivers a rich, creamy base crowned
with a tangy, sweet cranberry sauce. It bakes into a bubbly perfection that
will have your whole kitchen smelling amazing.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 8
Key Ingredients
- 16
oz (2 blocks) full-fat cream cheese, softened
- 1 (14 oz) can jellied cranberry sauce
- 1/2 cup whole berry cranberry sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon fresh orange zest
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2
tablespoons finely sliced green onions, for garnish
- A
pinch of coarse sea salt, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat
and Prepare: Preheat
your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease an 8x8 inch baking dish or a
9-inch pie plate with butter or cooking spray.
- Spread
the Cream Cheese: Place the softened cream cheese blocks into the prepared
dish. Using a spatula, spread it into a smooth, even layer.
- Create
the Cranberry Topping: In a medium bowl, combine the jellied cranberry sauce and
whole berry cranberry sauce. Use a fork to break up the jellied sauce and
stir. Add the honey, orange zest, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir until well
combined.
- Layer
and Bake: Spoon
the cranberry mixture over the cream cheese layer and spread it evenly to
cover. Bake for 14-17 minutes, or until the edges are bubbly.
- Garnish
and Serve: Remove
from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes to set. Garnish with sliced
green onions and a pinch of coarse sea salt. Serve immediately.
What to Serve With It
- Crackers: Buttery Ritz, wheat
crackers, or plain water crackers.
- Bread: Thinly sliced and toasted
baguette or crostini.
- Fresh
Veggies: Apple
slices, pear slices, or celery sticks.
- Savory
Items: Crispy
bacon strips or salty pretzel rods.
Top Tips for Success
- Softening
Shortcut: For
quick softening, microwave unwrapped cream cheese on 50% power for 15-20
seconds.
- Spice
It Up: Add
a quarter teaspoon of ground ginger for an extra warm, festive kick.
- Avoid
Overbaking: The
dip is done when bubbly at the edges; overbaking can cause the cream
cheese to separate.
- Go
Homemade: Use
1.5 cups of your own homemade cranberry sauce for ultimate freshness.
Storing and Reheating
- Storing: Cool leftovers
completely, then transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up
to 3-4 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F (175°C)
oven, covered with foil, for 10-15 minutes until warm. Microwaving in
short intervals is also possible, though the texture may be less smooth.
- Freezing: This dip does not freeze
well, as the cream cheese can become grainy upon thawing.
