This Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip is a delightful mix of creamy and tangy flavors. It’s made with fluffy cream cheese and sweet-tart cranberries, making it a fun treat!
Every bite is a burst of holiday cheer—perfect for spreading on crackers or bagels. I always make extra because it’s so hard to resist! 🥳
What I love most is how quick it comes together. Just mix, chill, and serve. It turns any snack time into a celebration without any fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: This is the dip’s base, providing a rich and creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative.
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries give a wonderful tartness. If they aren’t available, you can use dried cranberries, but cut back on the sugar since they are naturally sweeter.
Granulated Sugar: This adds sweetness to balance the tart cranberries. You can substitute with honey or maple syrup for a different sweetness profile, but adjust the amount to taste.
Orange Zest: This adds a citrus zing. If you don’t have it on hand, lemon zest works well too, or you can skip it for a more straightforward flavor.
Fresh Rosemary: This is optional but adds an aromatic touch. Thyme or fresh parsley can be great substitutes if you prefer a different herbal note.
How Do I Ensure My Cranberries Cook Down Properly?
Cooking the cranberries until they burst is key for your dip’s texture. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with medium heat and be patient—this helps to soften the cranberries evenly.
- Stir occasionally to prevent burning and to promote even cooking.
- Keep an eye out for the cranberries bursting, which releases their juices. This takes about 10 minutes.
- Once thickened, let the mixture cool before adding it on top of the cream cheese.
This technique helps create that lovely sweet-tart sauce that makes your dip so delightful!
How to Make Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 teaspoon orange zest (optional)
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped (for garnish)
- Crackers, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dip takes about 15 minutes to prepare. You’ll need an additional 10 minutes for cooking the cranberries and time to cool. The dip can be served immediately or chilled in the refrigerator for a while if you’d like it to set. It’s quick, simple, and totally delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Cranberry Mixture:
In a small saucepan, combine the cranberries, granulated sugar, and water. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir occasionally. Cook until the cranberries start to burst and the mixture thickens—this should take about 10 minutes. Once thickened, remove the pan from heat and let it cool completely.
2. Prepare the Cream Cheese:
While the cranberry mixture cools, take a bowl and add the softened cream cheese. Use a mixer or a fork to beat the cream cheese until it’s smooth and fluffy. This is the creamy base of your dip!
3. Mix in the Orange Zest:
If you’re using orange zest for that extra zing, gently fold it into the cream cheese mixture. This adds a lovely citrus note that complements the cranberries beautifully.
4. Assemble the Dip:
Spoon the whipped cream cheese into a serving bowl and spread it evenly at the bottom. This will be the creamy foundation for your cranberry sauce.
5. Add the Cranberry Sauce:
Once the cranberry mixture has cooled, carefully spoon it over the layer of cream cheese. Spread it out a bit to cover the cream cheese evenly. The vibrant color will make it look so inviting!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Top your dip with finely chopped fresh rosemary for a touch of color and flavor. Now it’s ready to be served! Pair it with your favorite crackers for dipping.
Enjoy this creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet dip that’s perfect for holiday gatherings or any snack time! It’s a guaranteed hit at any gathering! 🎉
Can I Use Dried Cranberries Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use dried cranberries, but you might want to reduce the sugar since they are typically sweeter than fresh cranberries. Just chop them up and skip the cooking step—mix them directly with the cream cheese!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again, as the layers may separate slightly when chilled.
Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dip a day in advance. Just follow the instructions and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors will even meld together better overnight!
What Can I Serve With This Dip Besides Crackers?
This dip pairs wonderfully with sliced apples, celery sticks, or bagel chips. It’s also delicious spread on toasted baguette slices for a more sophisticated appetizer!
