Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip: A Sweet and Savory Holiday Appetizer
Introduction
If you’re looking for a quick and easy appetizer that’s perfect for holiday gatherings or any festive occasion, this Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip is a must-try! Combining the smooth richness of cream cheese with the sweetness of cranberry sauce and the crunch of pecans, this dip is the perfect balance of flavors. It only takes 10 minutes to prepare, and it pairs wonderfully with your favorite crackers. Whether you’re hosting a party or need a last-minute dish to bring along, this cranberry cream cheese dip will surely impress your guests.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- Small pinch of salt
- 14-ounce can whole berry cranberry sauce
Directions
1. Mix the Cream Cheese Base
- In a medium bowl, use a hand mixer to combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, chopped pecans, and a small pinch of salt.
- Mix for about 2 minutes, or until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
2. Transfer to a Serving Dish
- Once the cream cheese mixture is smooth and well-blended, transfer it into a serving dish. Spread it evenly to create a base layer for the cranberry topping.
3. Add the Cranberry Sauce
- Spoon the whole berry cranberry sauce over the cream cheese mixture. Spread the sauce evenly across the top for a beautiful presentation and balanced flavor in every bite.
4. Serve and Enjoy
- Serve the dip with your favorite crackers, and enjoy the delicious combination of creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors!
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Servings: 8 servings
- Calories: 180 kcal per serving
Tips for Success
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the cream cheese mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just top it with cranberry sauce right before serving.
- Customizations: Feel free to swap the pecans for walnuts or almonds if you prefer a different nutty flavor. You can also add a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness.
- Serving Suggestions: This dip pairs perfectly with crackers, but it’s also delicious with toasted baguette slices or even apple slices for a fresh twist.
Final Thoughts
This Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip is the ultimate easy appetizer for the holiday season. Its combination of smooth, creamy cheese, crunchy pecans, and sweet cranberry sauce makes it a crowd-pleasing dish that’s sure to disappear quickly. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a cozy evening at home, this dip is a wonderful addition to your spread. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, you’ll want to make this dip again and again!
Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 1x
Description
This Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip is a perfect blend of creamy, tangy, and sweet, with a delightful crunch from the chopped pecans. The smooth cream cheese mixture is lightened with sour cream, making it the perfect base for the tart cranberry sauce that is spread on top. The combination of flavors and textures creates a festive and irresistible appetizer, ideal for holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup sour cream
1/2 cup chopped pecans
Small pinch of salt
14-ounce can whole berry cranberry sauce
Instructions
In a medium bowl, use a hand mixer to combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, chopped pecans, and a small pinch of salt. Mix for about 2 minutes, or until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Transfer the cream cheese mixture into a serving dish, spreading it evenly.
Spoon the whole berry cranberry sauce over the top of the cream cheese mixture, spreading it evenly.
Serve the dip with crackers, and enjoy!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 180