Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip

Name: Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 6-8 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup cranberry sauce; 1/2 cup chopped pecans; 1/4 cup green onions, chopped; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

Elevate your gatherings with this delightful Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip, a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors. This creamy dip is easy to prepare and makes an excellent appetizer or snack for any occasion. Serve it with crackers, fresh vegetables, or spread it on sandwiches for a festive touch to your holiday spread.

Created by

Tessa Wright

Last updated on 2025-12-01T09:23:52.583Z

A Perfect Balance of Flavors

The Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip combines the tartness of cranberry sauce with the rich, creamy texture of cream cheese. This contrast not only stimulates the taste buds but also brings an aesthetic appeal to your appetizer spread. The addition of chopped pecans introduces a delightful crunch, enhancing both the flavor and texture. For those who enjoy a hint of freshness, the chopped green onions add a nice balance, making every bite an exciting experience.

This dip is versatile enough to suit various palates and is sure to impress your guests. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or a simple gathering with friends, the savory and sweet notes of this dip will have everyone coming back for more. It pairs wonderfully with a variety of dippers, from crispy crackers to fresh vegetable sticks, making it easy to customize for any occasion.

Quick and Easy Preparation

One of the best things about this Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip is its simplicity. With just a few key ingredients and minimal preparation time, you can whip up this delicious appetizer in a flash. The process involves merely mixing the ingredients and letting them chill, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your gathering and less time in the kitchen. It’s perfect for last-minute entertaining!

This recipe is also adaptable; you can easily tweak the ingredients to cater to your preferences. For instance, consider adding a dash of cinnamon for extra warmth or incorporating some jalapeños for a spicy kick. This flexibility ensures that even those who may not be fans of certain ingredients can still enjoy a version of this tasty dip.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

When it comes to serving this Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip, creativity is your best friend. While traditional options like crackers and vegetable sticks are a hit, consider mixing it up with sliced baguette or pretzel chips. The dip can also be used as a spread on sandwiches or wraps, adding a festive flair to lunch options during the holiday season.

For a complete holiday appetizer spread, you can serve this dip alongside a cheese platter, ensuring a variety of flavors and textures for your guests. Include other dips like hummus or guacamole for a well-rounded selection. This mix encourages guests to try different combinations, ensuring a delightful culinary experience.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup cranberry sauce
1/2 cup chopped pecans
1/4 cup green onions, chopped
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix all ingredients together and serve.

Steps

Prepare the Cream Cheese

In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in the cranberry sauce, chopped pecans, green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Chill and Serve

Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Serve with crackers or fresh vegetables.

Enjoy your delicious dip!

Storage Tips

This Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This is perfect for making in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen and intensify. Just be sure to give it a good stir before serving, as the ingredients may separate slightly during storage.

If you want to prepare this dip well ahead of time, consider making it and freezing it in a suitable container. It can be frozen for up to a month. To serve, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and stir before enjoying. This makes it a great option for holiday parties or potlucks when you want to be prepared in advance.

Healthier Alternatives

For those looking for a lighter version of this dip, consider using low-fat cream cheese or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. This maintains the creaminess without compromising on flavor, making it a suitable choice for various dietary needs. Additionally, opting for homemade cranberry sauce can significantly reduce sugar content and enhance the freshness of the dish.

Another alternative is to substitute pecans with other nuts or seeds, such as walnuts or sunflower seeds, catering to those with nut allergies while still adding that desired crunch. Adjusting the ingredient amounts also allows for a tailored approach to suit individual taste preferences.

Pairing Beverages

When it comes to beverages, this dip pairs beautifully with various drinks. A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, complements the tartness of the cranberries, enhancing the overall dining experience. For beer lovers, a light lager or wheat beer can provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy texture of the dip.

If you prefer non-alcoholic options, consider serving this dip with sparkling water or a light fruit punch. These beverages will not overpower the flavors of the dip but rather accentuate its sweetness and savory notes. Creating a balanced beverage selection ensures your guests have a delightful pairing with their appetizers.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes! It can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

→ What can I serve with this dip?

It's great with crackers, chips, fresh vegetables, or spread on sandwiches.