BAKED CREAM CHEESE CRANBERRY DIP
This Baked Cream Cheese Cranberry Dip is a creamy and tangy appetizer that's perfect for holiday gatherings. It combines the rich flavor of cream cheese with the tartness of cranberries, making it an irresistible treat.
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup chopped green onions optional
- Crackers or toasted baguette slices for serving
Instructions
Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a small baking dish.
Prepare the Cranberry Sauce:
- In a small saucepan, combine the cranberries, granulated sugar, water, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon.
- Cook over medium heat until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens, about 10 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Make the Cream Cheese Mixture:
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise until smooth and creamy.
Assemble the Dip:
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Pour the cranberry sauce over the cream cheese mixture and spread it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
Bake the Dip:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the dip is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden.
Serve:
- Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
- Serve the Baked Cream Cheese Cranberry Dip with crackers or toasted baguette slices.
Notes
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to use other cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for a different flavor.
- Make-Ahead: The dip can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Bake just before serving.
- Leftovers: Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
- Serving Suggestions: This dip pairs well with fresh vegetables like celery sticks or sliced bell peppers.