Description
This Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip is the ultimate festive appetizer—warm, creamy, and bursting with tart cranberries and a hint of sweetness. With just 10 minutes of prep and a total bake time of 20 minutes, it’s the perfect dish for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in.
Ingredients
Units
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For the Dip:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey
- 1 tsp orange zest
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
For Serving:
- Crackers or crostini
- Sliced apples or pears
- Toasted baguette slices
Instructions
- Prepare the Cranberry Topping:
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine cranberries, maple syrup (or honey), orange zest, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and soften. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
-
Assemble the Dip:
- Spread the cream cheese evenly in a small oven-safe dish.
- Pour the warm cranberry mixture over the top and spread evenly.
-
Bake the Dip:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake for 15 minutes, until the cream cheese is soft and slightly bubbly.
-
Serve & Enjoy:
- Let the dip cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Sprinkle with chopped pecans, if desired.
- Serve with crackers, crostini, apples, or pears.
Notes
- Use room temperature cream cheese for smooth spreading.
- Adjust sweetness by adding more honey or maple syrup if your cranberries are extra tart.
- Make ahead: Prepare the cranberry topping in advance and assemble before baking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ~2 tbsp
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 35mg