Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip

This dip is the perfect blend of creamy cream cheese, sweet-tart cranberries, and a hint of warmth from baking. Serve it with crackers, toasted bread, or even fresh fruit for a festive and irresistible treat!

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Ingredients

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 1/4 cup shredded white cheddar cheese (optional for added richness)
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (to balance tartness)
• 1 teaspoon orange zest (optional, for a bright citrus note)
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional for texture)
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional, for a warm flavor twist)

For Serving:

• Crackers, toasted bread, pita chips, or apple slices 🍏

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Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

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Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Base

1. Place the softened cream cheese in a small oven-safe baking dish or a pie plate.
2. Use a spatula or spoon to smooth the cream cheese into an even layer.

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Step 3: Add the Cranberry Topping

1. Spread the cranberry sauce evenly over the cream cheese layer.
   • Tip: If the cranberry sauce is too thick, you can stir in a splash of water or orange juice to loosen it up.
2. Drizzle honey (or maple syrup) over the cranberry sauce for a hint of sweetness.
3. Sprinkle on the orange zest, cinnamon, and chopped nuts if using.
4. Top with shredded white cheddar cheese if you’re adding it.

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Step 4: Bake the Dip

1. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes.
   • The dip is done when the cream cheese is softened and slightly bubbly around the edges.
2. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.

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Step 5: Serve Warm

• Serve the warm dip with crackers, toasted baguette slices, pita chips, or even fresh apple slices for a delicious combination of flavors and textures.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Festive and Gorgeous: Perfect for holidays with its vibrant cranberry topping and creamy base.
• Quick and Easy: Minimal prep and only a few ingredients!
• Crowd-Pleaser: The perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and creamy flavors.
• Customizable: Add nuts, citrus zest, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon to make it your own.

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Pro Tips

• Make Ahead: Assemble the dip up to a day ahead, cover, and store in the refrigerator. Bake just before serving.
• Homemade Cranberry Sauce: If you want to make your own, simmer 1 cup fresh cranberries with 1/4 cup sugar, 2 tablespoons water, and a splash of orange juice until thickened.
• Texture Boost: Add chopped nuts or seeds for extra crunch.

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Storage and Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the oven at 325°F for 10 minutes or microwave in short intervals until warm.

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Serving Ideas

• Pair this dip with:
  • Buttery crackers or pita chips
  • Crostini or toasted baguette slices
  • Fresh veggies like celery or carrot sticks
  • Fresh fruit such as sliced apples or pears 🍐

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Conclusion

This Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip is creamy, warm, and bursting with flavor—perfect for any holiday table or gathering. It’s so easy to make, yet feels elegant and special. Serve it up, and watch your guests come back for seconds (or thirds)!

Enjoy! 🧀🍒✨

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