Baked cranberry cream cheese dip is a delightful mash-up of tangy cranberries and creamy cheese that delivers a comforting, delicious experience. Whether it’s a festive gathering, an evening with friends, or a cosy family night, this recipe is sure to impress. The combination of smooth cream cheese, oozy mozzarella, and the vibrant burst of fresh and cranberry sauce creates a wholesome dip that’s as impressive as it is simple to make.
What You’ll Need for Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, room temperature (about 450 g)
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided (about 300 g)
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed dried rosemary (2 g)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (2 g)
- 1/2 cup canned whole berry cranberry sauce (about 120 g)
- 2/3 cup fresh cranberries (about 100 g)
How to Make Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease an 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, add the room temperature cream cheese. Beat it until smooth and creamy.
- Mix in 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese, crushed dried rosemary, and garlic powder until evenly combined.
- Gently fold in the canned cranberry sauce and fresh cranberries.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 22-26 minutes, or until the edges brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve hot alongside your favourite crackers, bread, or pita chips.
The Best Way to Serve It
This baked cranberry cream cheese dip is a fantastic crowd-pleaser! Serve it hot, allowing the gooey cheese to stretch as you scoop it up. It pairs wonderfully with an array of dippers; consider an assortment of crackers for a crunchy contrast, soft baguette slices for a more rustic feel, or crispy pita chips to add a delightful texture. You could even use fresh vegetable sticks for a healthier option.
Make It Your Own
- For a bit of a kick, try adding chopped jalapeños or your favourite hot sauce to the mix!
- You could substitute the mozzarella cheese for a cheddar or a blend of your favourite cheeses for a richer flavour.
- If you’re a fan of nuts, adding some chopped walnuts or pecans on top before baking can introduce a lovely crunch.
Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip: Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dip, assemble it in the baking dish, and cover it. Just pop it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time for a cold dip.
What can I use instead of fresh cranberries?
If fresh cranberries are not available, you can use more canned cranberry sauce or even dried cranberries. Just be mindful that dried ones will bring a chewy texture.
Is there a way to make this dip lower in calories?
Certainly! You could use reduced-fat cream cheese and a lighter mozzarella cheese to make a slightly healthier version that still tastes great.
Give this baked cranberry cream cheese dip a try! It’s a delightful addition to any gathering and a fantastic way to enjoy the flavours of the season. Your taste buds will thank you!