Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese is a delightful dish that has become a staple in my kitchen during the holiday season and beyond. This creamy and tangy dip is perfect for gatherings, bringing warmth and excitement to any table. With its blend of sweet cranberries and rich cream cheese, it creates a symphony of flavors that is irresistible. Let’s dive into this amazing recipe that will surely impress your guests!
Why You’ll Love This Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese
This Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese is not just any appetizer; it’s a crowd-pleaser! Here are some reasons you’ll adore this dish:
- It’s incredibly easy to make, perfect for busy hosts.
- The combination of sweet and savory flavors makes it unique.
- It can be served as a warm dip or a spread.
- Perfect for holiday gatherings, parties, or as a snack.
- Flexibility to customize with various toppings and mix-ins.
- It’s vegetarian-friendly, making it suitable for various diets.
- Pairs wonderfully with a variety of dippers like crackers and bread.
- It embodies the spirit of comfort food with a festive twist.
With its American Cuisine roots, this dish is a prime example of a Best Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Appetizer.
Ingredients for Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese
Gather these items:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- ½ cup sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
- ½ cup chopped pecans (optional)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Crackers, bread, or vegetables for serving
How to Make Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Step 2: Prepare the cranberries: If using fresh cranberries, rinse and remove any stems. If using frozen, do not thaw them.
- Step 3: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Step 4: Stir in the sugar, vanilla extract, and orange zest until well combined.
- Step 5: Gently fold in the cranberries and chopped pecans (if using) until evenly distributed.
- Step 6: Spread the mixture into a greased baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Step 7: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the dip.
- Step 8: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Step 9: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Step 10: Serve warm with your choice of crackers, bread, or fresh vegetables.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese
Keep these in mind:
- Use room temperature cream cheese for easier mixing.
- Add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors.
- Experiment with cheese toppings like mozzarella or gouda for different flavors.
- For a sweeter version, consider adding more sugar or honey to the mix.
- Follow the Baking method precisely for the best texture.
Best Ways to Serve Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese
Here are some delicious serving suggestions:
- Pair with an assortment of crackers to cater to all tastes.
- Serve it alongside fresh cut vegetables for a healthier option.
- Try it on toasted baguette slices for a gourmet touch.
This dish is an absolute Cream Cheese and Cranberry Bake Recipe that’s sure to be a hit!
How to Store and Reheat Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to enjoy again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. This dish is not only easy to make but also convenient for meal prep, making it a great option for busy days!
Frequently Asked Questions About Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese
What’s the secret to perfect Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese?
The secret lies in using fresh ingredients and ensuring the cream cheese is fully softened to achieve a smooth texture. Consider incorporating a mix of spices for added depth.
Can I make Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it fresh when you’re ready to serve to maintain its creamy texture and flavor.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese?
To avoid common pitfalls, ensure the cranberries are evenly distributed and do not over-bake the dip, as this can lead to a dry texture. Monitoring the baking time is crucial.
Variations of Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese You Can Try
Feel free to experiment with these variations:
- Replace cranberries with dried cherries for a different flavor profile.
- Add jalapeños for a spicy kick in your Savory Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread.
- Incorporate herbs like rosemary or thyme for a fresh twist.
- Mix in different nuts such as walnuts or almonds for added crunch.
This Oven-Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese is versatile, making it a fantastic choice for any occasion!
For more delicious recipes, check out our appetizers category for inspiration!
For tips on how to make the best avocado toast, visit our recipe page!
And if you’re interested in learning more about Mediterranean diets, we have a great resource for you!
Print
Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese: 8 Irresistible Reasons to Indulge
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- ½ cup sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
- ½ cup chopped pecans (optional)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Crackers, bread, or vegetables for serving
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the cranberries: If using fresh cranberries, rinse and remove any stems. If using frozen, do not thaw them.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Stir in the sugar, vanilla extract, and orange zest until well combined.
- Gently fold in the cranberries and chopped pecans (if using) until evenly distributed.
- Spread the mixture into a greased baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the dip.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve warm with your choice of crackers, bread, or fresh vegetables.
Notes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Leave a Reply