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Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip

Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip
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A creamy, tangy, and sweet cranberry cream cheese dip that combines smooth cream cheese with vibrant whole berry cranberry sauce. Quick to prepare and perfect for holiday gatherings or any party, this dip is festive, flavorful, and easy to customize with nuts, herbs, or other mix-ins. Serve chilled with crackers, breads, or fresh fruit for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 1 cup whole berry cranberry sauce
  • 1–2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (adjust sweetness to preference)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Mix-Ins

  • 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
  • Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme (to taste)

Instructions

  1. Soften the Cream Cheese: Allow the cream cheese to sit at room temperature until it is soft and easily spreadable, ensuring a smooth, lump-free dip.
  2. Combine the Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, blend the softened cream cheese, whole berry cranberry sauce, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is fully combined and smooth.
  3. Add Optional Mix-Ins: Gently fold in chopped nuts and/or fresh herbs if using, taking care not to break down the texture.
  4. Chill Before Serving: Transfer the dip to a serving bowl and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavors and firm up the dip for easier scooping.

Notes

  • Always use room temperature cream cheese to avoid lumps.
  • Choose whole berry cranberry sauce over jellied for added texture and flavor bursts.
  • Adjust honey or maple syrup amounts depending on the sweetness of your cranberry sauce.
  • Stir gently when adding nuts or herbs to maintain crunch and smooth consistency.
  • Prepare the dip a few hours ahead to allow flavors to meld beautifully.

Nutrition

Keywords: cranberry cream cheese dip, holiday appetizer, party dip, easy appetizer, cranberry sauce dip, cream cheese appetizer

Find it online: https://lillysplate.com/cranberry-cream-cheese-dip/