Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip Recipe
Introduction
This baked cranberry cream cheese dip is a perfect blend of tangy cranberry sauce and creamy cheese, topped with melted mozzarella and crunchy pecans. Warm and inviting, it makes a delightful appetizer for gatherings or cozy nights at home.
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
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Step 2: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and cranberry sauce until well blended.
- Step 3: Spread the mixture evenly into a small baking dish.
- Step 4: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and chopped pecans evenly over the top.
- Step 5: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Step 6: Serve the dip warm with crackers or slices of bread.
Tips & Variations
- You can use either homemade cranberry sauce or canned cranberry sauce for convenience.
- For extra sweetness, add a drizzle of honey over the top before baking.
- Try substituting pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different nutty flavor.
Storage
Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warm before serving to restore the melty texture.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I prepare this dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dip and refrigerate it before baking. Just bake it fresh when ready to serve.
What can I serve with this cranberry cream cheese dip?
This dip pairs wonderfully with crackers, toasted baguette slices, or fresh bread. It’s also great alongside vegetable sticks like celery or carrot.
PrintBaked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip Recipe
This Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip is a deliciously creamy and tangy appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings or any occasion. Cream cheese blended with sweet cranberry sauce, topped with mozzarella and crunchy pecans, then baked until bubbly and golden. Serve warm with crackers or bread for a crowd-pleasing starter.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
- Yield: About 6 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Main 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
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the dip evenly.
- Mix Cream Cheese and Cranberry Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and cranberry sauce thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Spread Mixture in Baking Dish: Transfer the cream cheese and cranberry mixture into a small baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese and chopped pecans evenly over the top of the cream cheese mixture to add flavor and texture.
- Bake the Dip: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese has melted completely and the dip is bubbly and lightly golden.
- Serve Warm: Remove the dip from the oven and serve hot with crackers or bread for dipping and spreading.
Notes
- You can use either homemade cranberry sauce or canned cranberry sauce for convenience.
- For extra sweetness and flavor, add a drizzle of honey on top of the dip before baking.
Keywords: cranberry cream cheese dip, baked cranberry dip, holiday appetizer, cream cheese dip, pecan cranberry dip
