Name: Creamy Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip for Holiday Cheer
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 23 min
Total time: 33 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Extra-Sharp Cheddar Cheese (grated); 8 oz Cream Cheese (room temperature); 1/4 cup Cranberry Sauce (heaping); 1/2 cup Fresh Cranberries; 1/4 teaspoon Nutmeg (optional)

As I was flipping through my old recipe book, a familiar page caught my eye—an old favorite that I just couldn’t resist revisiting: Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip. This simple yet delightful dish has become a staple at my holiday gatherings and is a surefire crowd-pleaser, all thanks to its creamy goodness and the irresistible tang of cranberries. With just four ingredients, this dip is perfect for anyone looking to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s make-ahead friendly, allowing you to focus on hosting while your guests enjoy the savory-sweet magic of this appetizer. Are you ready to dive into the holiday spirit with me and whip up this delicious dip?

Why is this dip a must-try?

Creamy Delights: This Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip boasts a luscious, creamy texture that will keep your guests coming back for more. Each bite is a perfect blend of rich cheese and tart cranberries.

Unbeatable Simplicity: With just four ingredients, it’s an effortless recipe that requires minimal effort. Perfect for those busy holiday gatherings where you want to shine without stress!

Versatile Options: Want to spice things up? Add jalapenos or mix in some chopped nuts for an exciting twist. You can even use mascarpone if you’re feeling fancy!

Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare this dip up to two days in advance. Just pop it in the oven when your guests arrive, and you’ll have a warm, bubbling treat ready to serve.

Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The unique combination of sweet and savory makes this dip an instant hit. It pairs beautifully with crostini or Italian Herbs Cheese for a delightful appetizer spread!

Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip Ingredients

For the Dip

Extra-Sharp Cheddar Cheese – 2 cups, grated for a rich flavor that enhances the dip; swap for sharp or aged cheddar if preferred.
Cream Cheese – 8 oz, room temperature for creaminess and binding; mascarpone is a fabulous substitute for extra richness.
Cranberry Sauce – 1/4 cup, heaping adds sweet moisture; feel free to use homemade, canned, or leftover cranberry sauce!
Fresh Cranberries – 1/2 cup for texture and a tart burst; frozen cranberries work too without thawing.

Optional Seasoning

Nutmeg – 1/4 teaspoon, optional for aromatic warmth; use ground nutmeg if fresh isn’t at hand.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). If using a convection oven, set it to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip bakes evenly and achieves that perfect golden-brown top. Make sure to allow enough time for the oven to heat up while you prepare the dip.

Step 2: Mix the Cheeses
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the room temperature cream cheese and 1 ¾ cups of grated extra-sharp cheddar cheese. Using a hand mixer or a sturdy spatula, blend until the ingredients are smoothly incorporated and creamy. For a hint of warmth, consider adding freshly grated nutmeg at this stage, mixing it in until evenly distributed.

Step 3: Add the Cranberry Components
Next, gently fold in the heaping quarter cup of cranberry sauce along with the ½ cup of fresh cranberries. Use a spatula to ensure everything is evenly mixed without crushing the cranberries. The sweet-tart mixture will give your dip a delightful burst of flavor, balancing beautifully with the richness of the cheese.

Step 4: Transfer to Baking Dish
Carefully transfer the creamy mixture to a greased 1.5-quart baking dish, spreading it out evenly. This will ensure even cooking. To finish, sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly over the top. This layer will create a deliciously bubbly crust as it bakes, making your Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip even more irresistible.

Step 5: Bake Until Bubbling
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for 18 to 23 minutes. Look for the dip to be bubbly and slightly golden on the edges. If it begins to brown too quickly, gently cover it with aluminum foil to prevent over-baking. This final step will enhance the dip’s creamy texture and flavor.

Step 6: Serve Warm
Once your Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip is ready, remove it from the oven and let it sit for a couple of minutes. Serve it immediately alongside crostini, crackers, or pita chips to complete the delightful appetizer experience. Optionally, a sprinkle of fresh nutmeg on top will elevate the final presentation and flavor.

What to Serve with Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip

Imagine a festive gathering filled with laughter, shared stories, and the warm aroma of holiday delights wafting through the air. The perfect accompaniment to your Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip will elevate your appetizer spread and invite everyone to indulge.

Crostini: Crispy and crunchy, crostini provides the ideal base for the creamy dip, enhancing each bite’s delightful texture.
Vegetable Sticks: Fresh carrot and cucumber sticks add a refreshing crunch, balancing the richness of the dip with vibrant colors.
Pita Chips: Lightly salted pita chips bring a hearty yet airy quality that complements the dip’s savory nature perfectly.
Cheese Board: Create a cheese board with assorted cheeses and fruits to offer diverse flavors, making your Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip the star of the show.
Sparkling Wine: A chilled glass of sparkling wine or prosecco can bring a delightful effervescence, heightening the festive spirit of your gathering.
Herbed Crackers: The herby notes in crackers can accentuate the dip’s savory elements, bringing a warm homey vibe to your appetizer spread.
Apple Slices: Sweet sliced apples offer a crisp, contrasting flavor, harmonizing beautifully with the tang of cranberries in the dip.
Mixed Nuts: A medley of nuts provides a satisfying crunch and an additional layer of flavor that pairs well with the creamy texture of the dip.
Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: For a sweet finish, chocolate-covered strawberries can be an unexpected but delightful addition, playing with flavors beautifully.

Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip Variations

Discover how to elevate your Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip with exciting twists and substitutions! Get ready to explore flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.

Spicy Kick: Add 2 tablespoons of chopped jalapenos for a burst of heat that pairs wonderfully with the creamy dip. This zing will make your dip a crowd favorite!
Nutty Crunch: Mix in 1/4 cup of your favorite chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for an enticing crunch. It adds texture and depth to every scoop, taking your dip to the next level.
Mouthwatering Mascarpone: Swap cream cheese for mascarpone for a richer, creamier experience. This delightful twist will create a dip that feels luxurious and indulgent.
Garlic Infusion: Stir in 1 teaspoon of minced garlic for a savory aroma that melds perfectly with the sweet cranberries. Garlic lovers will rejoice with every dip!
Herbaceous Surprise: Add a tablespoon of freshly chopped rosemary or thyme. This not only adds an earthy flavor but also fills your kitchen with an inviting, herby scent.
Creamy Spinach: Introduce 1 cup of chopped fresh spinach to your dip for a pop of color and nutrition! This variant stays rich while adding a lovely vibrant touch.
Berry Blend: Replace fresh cranberries with raspberries or blueberries for a fruity twist! Mixed berries will infuse your dip with unexpected sweetness and a beautiful hue.
Sweet Heat: Drizzle a touch of sriracha or your favorite hot sauce on top just before serving. The balance of sweet and spicy will elevate your Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip to a new level of deliciousness.

Looking for a delightful pairing? Serve this dip alongside some crispy crostini, crunchy crackers, or maybe some savory Italian Herbs Cheese for a luxurious appetizer spread that captures the spirit of the season!

Expert Tips for Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip

Room Temperature Cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easy mixing; cold cream cheese can cause lumps in your dip.
Choose Your Cheese Wisely: Avoid pre-shredded cheese as the anti-caking agents can affect melting; fresh, grated cheese gives the best texture to your Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip.
Keep an Eye on Baking: Monitor the dip while it bakes to prevent over-browning. If it gets too dark, lightly cover with foil until it’s bubbly and cooked through.
Substitution Options: Feel free to swap mascarpone for cream cheese for a richer taste or add chopped jalapenos to create a spicy kick that balances with sweetness.
Make Ahead Tip: This dip can be prepared up to two days in advance, making your entertaining stress-free. Just allow it to come to room temperature before baking for optimal results.

How to Store and Freeze Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip

Fridge: Store your Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to maintain its creamy texture.

Freezer: You can freeze this dip for up to 2 months. Transfer it to a freezer-safe dish, ensuring it is well-covered to prevent freezer burn. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.

Reheating: To reheat, bake the thawed dip in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until bubbly. If the top is browning too fast, cover it with foil during baking.

Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare your Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip a couple of days in advance to ease your holiday hosting. Just store it properly in the fridge, and it will be ready when you are!

Make Ahead Options

This Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip is a perfect candidate for meal prep, allowing you to save valuable time on busy days. You can prepare the entire dip up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the cream cheese, grated cheddar, cranberry sauce, and fresh cranberries, then storing it in a greased baking dish covered with plastic wrap in the refrigerator. To maintain its quality, avoid adding the remaining cheddar cheese until you’re ready to bake it. When it’s time to serve, simply sprinkle the extra cheese on top and bake straight from the fridge, adjusting the baking time as needed for a delightfully warm, bubbly treat that’s just as delicious as when freshly made.

Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip Recipe FAQs

What type of cheese should I use for the best flavor in this dip?
Absolutely! For the richest flavor, I recommend using extra-sharp cheddar cheese. It enhances the dip’s taste beautifully. If sharp or aged cheddar is more to your liking, feel free to swap it in; both will give a deliciously creamy result.

How should I store leftover Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip?
To keep your dip fresh, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Make sure it’s cooled completely before sealing; this will help preserve its delightful creamy texture for your next indulgence!

Can I freeze this dip, and if so, how?
Yes! You can freeze your Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip for up to 2 months. Just transfer it to a freezer-safe dish, covering it well to prevent freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until bubbly, covering it with foil if the top begins to brown too quickly.

What should I do if the dip starts to brown too quickly while baking?
No worries! If you notice the dip browning more than you’d like, just cover it loosely with aluminum foil. This will help it bake evenly and prevent over-browning while still achieving that sought-after bubbly texture on top.

Are there any dietary considerations for this Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip?
Very much so! This dip is naturally gluten-free, making it a suitable choice for guests with gluten sensitivities. For dairy-free or vegan options, consider substituting the cream cheese and cheddar with plant-based alternatives that are commonly available in stores. Just make sure to adjust baking times if the texture varies!

Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare your Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip up to 2 days in advance. Just assemble it, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge. When it’s time to bake, let it come to room temperature for the best result before popping it in the oven. Enjoy the ease of entertaining with this make-ahead dish!