Cozy and Festive Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip Recipe
Author:Olivia
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:15 minutes
Total Time:25 minutes
Yield:Serves 8
Category:Appetizer
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon orange zest
1/4 cup orange juice
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 block (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for extra sweetness)
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
Chopped pecans or walnuts
Fresh rosemary sprigs
Pomegranate seeds
Extra orange zest
Instructions
In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, orange juice, orange zest, cinnamon, and vanilla. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens slightly, about 8–10 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Spread the softened cream cheese evenly into a small baking or pie dish using a rubber spatula. If desired, stir in honey or maple syrup and a pinch of cinnamon for a slightly sweeter, spiced base.
Spoon the warm cranberry mixture over the cream cheese layer, spreading it out evenly so the surface is covered.
Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the cream cheese is warmed through and the cranberry topping is bubbling gently around the edges.
Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Top with chopped nuts, fresh rosemary, pomegranate seeds, and extra orange zest if desired. Serve warm with crackers, toasted baguette slices, pretzels, pita chips, or crisp veggies.