This cranberry cream cheese dip is a delightful mix of tangy cranberries and smooth cream cheese. It’s sweet, savory, and perfect for spreading on crackers or veggies!
Honestly, I could eat this dip straight from the bowl! It brightens up any party and is super easy to make. Just mix, chill, and enjoy with friends while snacking!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: The star of this dip! Use full-fat for the richest flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute with Neufchâtel cheese or dairy-free cream cheese if needed.
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries are delightful, but frozen works just as well! If cranberries aren’t available, try using a mixed berry blend or even cherry pie filling—just adjust the sugar to taste.
Sugar: Granulated sugar is standard here, but you could swap it for honey or maple syrup if you prefer a natural sweetener. Keep in mind that the sweetness may vary, so taste as you mix!
Fresh Herbs: I recommend fresh rosemary for its flavor. Thyme is a nice alternative. If using dried herbs, use about a third of the amount since dried herbs are more potent.
How Do You Make This Dip Creamy and Flavorful?
Getting the right texture and flavor balance in this dip is key! The cream cheese needs to be softened to make mixing easy. Leave it out of the fridge for about 30 minutes before use. This way, it blends smoothly!
- Cook the cranberries gently to burst them open and let their juices flow, making a lovely sauce.
- Fold in your cranberry sauce slowly to keep a marbled look, which is part of the charm!
- Don’t forget to chill the dip for at least an hour before serving; it lets the flavors meld beautifully!
Enjoy making this cranberry cream cheese dip! It’s a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 tsp lemon zest (optional)
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped (or substitute with thyme)
- Crackers or toasted baguette slices, for serving
Time Needed:
This delicious cranberry cream cheese dip will take you about 15 minutes to prepare, and then let it cool for about 1 hour in the fridge before serving. It’s a quick and easy recipe that’s perfect for gatherings or just a tasty snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Cranberries:
In a small saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, and water. Heat over medium heat and stir occasionally. Cook until the cranberries start to burst and the mixture thickens a bit, which should take about 10 minutes. Once done, remove from heat and let the mixture cool completely.
2. Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture:
While the cranberry mixture is cooling, take a mixing bowl and fold the softened cream cheese with the chopped fresh rosemary. Mix well until everything is nicely combined and creamy!
3. Combine the Mixtures:
Once the cranberry mixture has cooled, gently fold half of it into the cream cheese mixture to create a marbled effect. Be careful not to completely mix it, as you want to see swirls of cranberry!
4. Assemble the Dip:
Spread the cranberry cream cheese mixture into a serving bowl. Then, spoon the remaining cooled cranberry sauce over the top as a lovely garnish.
5. Add Some Final Touches:
If you’d like, you can garnish with a few sprigs or strands of fresh rosemary for extra color and aroma.
6. Serve & Enjoy:
Now it’s time to serve! You can enjoy this dip chilled or at room temperature with crunchy crackers or toasted baguette slices.
This creamy, tangy dip with bursts of sweet-tart cranberry is a delightful treat that pairs wonderfully for snacking or holiday gatherings!
Can I Use Low-Fat Cream Cheese?
Absolutely! You can substitute regular cream cheese with low-fat or light cream cheese. Keep in mind that the dip may be slightly less creamy, but it will still be delicious!
Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the dip a day in advance! Just keep it covered in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld nicely, and it’ll be ready to serve when you need it.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a quick stir before serving again to refresh the texture!
Can I Use Other Fruits Instead of Cranberries?
Definitely! If cranberries are not available, you could use a mixture of other berries like blueberries or raspberries. Just adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of the fruit you choose!
