Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese is a warm, indulgent appetizer that combines the creamy richness of cream cheese with the tartness of fresh cranberries and the crunch of toasted pecans. This dish is perfect for the holiday season, making it an ideal addition to any festive gathering. The contrast between the smooth, sweet cream cheese and the tangy, bursting cranberries creates a delightful flavor balance, while the toasted pecans add texture and warmth. It’s an easy-to-make recipe that requires minimal ingredients and effort but delivers maximum flavor. Whether you serve it at a party or as a cozy snack, Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese is sure to become a crowd favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple and Quick: With just a few ingredients and a short baking time, this recipe is easy to make yet feels like a luxurious treat.
- Perfect for Holiday Parties: The combination of flavors and textures makes this a festive and appealing appetizer for any occasion.
- Sweet and Savory: The contrast between the creamy, sweetened cream cheese and the tart cranberry sauce creates a balanced, flavorful dish.
- Versatile: Serve with crackers, sliced bread, or even vegetables like celery for a versatile spread or dip.
- Crowd-Pleasing: Its appealing flavor and easy presentation make it a great choice to share with family and friends.
Ingredients
- Fresh cranberries
- Sugar
- Water
- Cream cheese (softened)
- Powdered sugar
- Vanilla extract
- Chopped pecans
Variations
- Add Citrus: For a citrusy twist, add orange zest to the cranberry sauce or a dash of orange juice to the cream cheese mixture.
- Nuts: Swap out pecans for walnuts, almonds, or pistachios to change the flavor and texture.
- Herbs: Try adding fresh herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, to the cream cheese mixture for an earthy, savory flavor.
- Spices: Experiment with cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger in the cranberry sauce for a more spiced flavor.
- Vegan Option: Use a plant-based cream cheese alternative for a dairy-free version of this dish.
How to Make the Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Cranberry Sauce
In a saucepan, combine fresh cranberries, sugar, and water. Cook over medium heat until the cranberries burst, about 10 minutes. Let it cool to room temperature.
Step 2: Mix the Cream Cheese
In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Prepare the Dish
Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly into a baking dish, smoothing it out with a spatula.
Step 4: Add the Cranberries and Pecans
Top the cream cheese layer with the cranberry sauce and sprinkle with chopped pecans.
Step 5: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the dish is warm throughout.
Step 6: Serve
Serve warm with crackers, sliced bread, or vegetables. Enjoy!
Tips for Making the Recipe
- Use Room Temperature Cream Cheese: To ensure a smooth mixture, make sure your cream cheese is softened before mixing.
- Watch the Cranberries: Be mindful when cooking the cranberries to avoid overcooking them. Once they burst, remove them from heat.
- Customize the Coating: Feel free to add extra toppings like a drizzle of honey, crumbled feta, or fresh herbs before serving.
- Prevent Over-baking: Keep an eye on the dish as it bakes, as it can go from golden brown to overcooked quickly.
- Chill Before Serving: If you prefer, you can prepare this dish ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking.
How to Serve
Serve this warm baked cranberry cream cheese dip with an assortment of crackers, crostini, or fresh vegetables like cucumber, carrots, and celery for a colorful spread. It also pairs well with lightly toasted baguette slices or flatbreads. The creamy dip makes for a delicious appetizer at holiday parties, gatherings, or casual family get-togethers.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through.
Freezing
Although this dish is best served fresh, you can freeze the cranberry cream cheese mixture before baking. Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and proceed with the baking instructions.
Reheating
To reheat, place the baked dish in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual servings in short intervals for convenience.
FAQs
- Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cream cheese mixture and cranberry sauce in advance. Refrigerate until ready to bake. - Can I use dried cranberries?
Fresh cranberries are ideal for this recipe, but if you use dried, soak them in warm water to soften them before cooking. - What else can I top this with?
You can top with additional nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, or add fresh herbs for an extra flavor dimension. - Can I make this vegan?
Yes, use plant-based cream cheese and adjust the sugar as needed to make it dairy-free. - How long will leftovers last?
Leftovers will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. - Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, freeze the unbaked dish for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before baking. - What kind of crackers are best?
Serve with a variety of crackers such as water crackers, butter crackers, or whole-grain crackers. - Can I add herbs to the cream cheese?
Yes, you can add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for a savory twist. - Can I add cheese to the topping?
Yes, a sprinkle of grated cheddar or brie before baking would add a delicious layer of flavor. - Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can double the ingredients and bake in a larger dish, adjusting the baking time if necessary.
Conclusion
Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese is an easy, impressive appetizer that combines the perfect balance of sweetness, creaminess, and crunch. Whether served for a holiday party or as a casual snack, it is a crowd-pleasing dish that’s quick to prepare and bursting with festive flavors. With minimal effort and maximum impact, this dish is bound to become a favorite at any gathering.
Print
Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
This warm, savory-sweet baked cranberry cream cheese dip is the perfect appetizer for holiday gatherings or any special occasion. With a rich cream cheese base, a tangy cranberry topping, and a crunchy pecan finish, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Serve with crackers or toasted bread for the ultimate indulgence!
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and soften, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
- In a separate bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly into a baking dish.
- Spoon the cooled cranberry sauce over the cream cheese layer, then sprinkle with chopped pecans.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and bubbly.
- Serve warm with crackers, bread, or veggies.
Notes
- For added flavor, you can use flavored cream cheese (like honey or herb cream cheese) for a twist.
- This dish can also be made ahead of time and baked just before serving.
- If you prefer a more tangy cranberry topping, use less sugar or add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the cranberry sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes