Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip

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

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

Elevate your appetizer game with this delightful Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip. Creamy, tart, and slightly sweet, this dip is perfect for holiday gatherings or any festive occasion. Serve it with crackers, vegetables, or your favorite bread for a crowd-pleasing treat that will leave everyone coming back for more.

Created by

Skylar Jennings

Last updated on 2025-11-27T15:37:05.439Z

The Perfect Holiday Appetizer

Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip is an unforgettable addition to your holiday table. With its creamy texture and a delightful burst of tangy cranberry flavor, it pairs seamlessly with various dippers, making it a versatile choice for any festive occasion. Whether you're hosting a cozy gathering or a grand holiday feast, this dip will impress your guests and keep the conversation flowing.

What makes this dip unique is the combination of sweet, tart, and crunchy elements. The creamy base created by softened cream cheese is balanced perfectly by the tartness of cranberry sauce, delivering a symphony of flavors. Add in the crunch of pecans and the mild onion flavor from green onions, and you have a dip that not only tastes great but also provides a wonderful texture.

Easy to Make and Customize

One of the best aspects of this Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip is its simplicity. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a delicious appetizer in no time. This makes it a great option for last-minute gatherings or potlucks where you need to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

Additionally, this recipe is highly customizable. While the classic version includes pecans and green onions, feel free to experiment with your favorite nuts or add spices to create a unique twist. You might try adding a splash of orange juice for a citrusy kick or incorporating herbs like thyme for extra depth of flavor. The possibilities are endless!

Serving Suggestions

Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip shines when served with a variety of dippers. Crackers and baguette slices are classic choices, but don’t shy away from fresh veggies like celery sticks, bell pepper strips, or even apple slices. The dip’s rich and tangy flavors will complement the crunchiness of the dippers, making for a delightful snacking experience.

For a festive touch, consider arranging your serving platter with a colorful selection of dippers. Adding some fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary as a garnish can elevate both the presentation and flavor. This dip not only looks stunning but also ensures that your guests will be reaching for more as they enjoy the blend of textures and tastes.

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, sliced
Salt and pepper to taste

Serve with crackers or vegetable sticks.

Instructions

Prepare the Cream Cheese Base

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

Mix in Cranberry Sauce

Fold in the cranberry sauce until well combined.

Add Nuts and Onions

Stir in the chopped pecans and sliced green onions. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Transfer to a serving dish and enjoy with your favorite dippers.

Keep refrigerated until ready to serve.

Nutritional Benefits

While Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip is a delicious indulgence, it also offers some nutritional benefits. Cranberries are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, supporting your immune system and overall health. Meanwhile, the cream cheese provides a good source of calcium and protein, making this dip not only tasty but also a bit nourishing.

In moderation, this dip can fit well into various dietary preferences. The use of pecans adds essential fats and nutrients, contributing to heart health. By choosing whole grain crackers or vegetables as dippers, you can create a more balanced snack that's satisfying and guilt-free.

Storage Tips

If you have any leftovers after your gathering, you can conveniently store your Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip. Simply transfer it to an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator. It will keep well for about 3 to 5 days, allowing you to enjoy the flavors even after the party is over.

Before serving any leftovers, give the dip a quick stir. This will revitalize the texture and flavor, as the ingredients may have settled during storage. If desired, serve it with fresh dippers for a surprisingly refreshing treat on your next snack break or intimate gathering.

Pairing Beverages

Finding the right beverage to pair with your Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip can take your appetizer experience to the next level. For a festive touch, consider serving it with sparkling wine or champagne. The bubbles and acidity in these beverages complement the tangy flavor of the dip without overpowering it, creating a perfect balance.

Alternatively, for a non-alcoholic option, consider offering sparkling water infused with fresh fruits or herbs. This refreshing drink will cleanse the palate and keep the focus on the dip's complex flavors, ensuring that each bite is just as enjoyable as the last. Don't hesitate to explore different pairings that suit your gathering's theme.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dip in advance?

Yes, you can prepare this dip a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator.

→ What can I serve with this dip?

Crackers, bread, vegetables, or chips all pair well with this dip.