Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip

Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip is one of those crowd-pleasers that’s almost too easy to make—and too delicious not to. You’ve got rich, melty cream cheese swirled with sweet-tart cranberry sauce, finished with crunchy pecans and a touch of honey. Serve it warm with crackers or toasted baguette slices and just watch it disappear. It’s creamy, festive, and loaded with flavor.

Behind the Recipe

This dip has become a staple in our home during the holiday season. I first made it when I had leftover cranberry sauce from Thanksgiving and a couple blocks of cream cheese in the fridge. One quick bake later and I was hooked. The balance of tangy, creamy, sweet, and crunchy is exactly what makes it so addictive. It’s the kind of appetizer you bring to a party once—and then everyone begs for the recipe.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

While this dish doesn’t have deep historical roots, it’s a modern classic among festive American appetizers. Cranberry sauce has long been a holiday table essential, and cream cheese dips are beloved for their simplicity and comfort. Combining the two with a bit of crunch and aromatic herbs gives this dish a seasonal flair that feels both nostalgic and fresh. It’s particularly popular in North American gatherings around Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Why You’ll Love Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip

This recipe ticks all the boxes for a winning party appetizer:

Versatile: Pairs well with sweet or savory dippers—crackers, crostini, apple slices, or pretzels.

Budget-Friendly: Uses five simple ingredients you might already have at home.

Quick and Easy: Less than 5 minutes to assemble and just 20 minutes to bake.

Customizable: Add orange zest, swap the nuts, or use a flavored cream cheese base.

Crowd-Pleasing: The creamy-meets-tart combo is always a hit at parties and potlucks.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble in advance and bake when ready to serve.

Great for Leftovers: Spread any extras on toast, bagels, or sandwiches.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Get the most out of every creamy, tangy bite with these tips:

• Let cream cheese soften before baking so it spreads more evenly.
• Use whole berry cranberry sauce for best texture and balance.
• Lightly toast pecans beforehand for extra nuttiness and crunch.
• Drizzle with honey just before serving to add shine and a sweet finish.
• Garnish with fresh rosemary or thyme for aroma and a pop of green.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

This recipe keeps things simple with minimal equipment:

Baking dish: An 8-inch round dish or shallow pie plate works perfectly.

Small saucepan (optional): If making homemade cranberry sauce or toasting nuts.

Spatula: To spread the cream cheese and cranberry sauce evenly.

Serving utensils: A small spoon or spreader for guests.

Ingredients in Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip

With just five key ingredients, each one has a role in making this dip unforgettable.

1. Cream Cheese: 2 blocks (16 oz total), softened – The rich, creamy base of the dip that melts into perfection in the oven.
2. Whole Berry Cranberry Sauce: 1 cup – Sweet and tart, this adds bold holiday flavor and a beautiful jewel-red color.
3. Fresh Rosemary: 1 teaspoon, finely chopped – Brings a fragrant, savory depth that balances the sweetness.
4. Chopped Pecans: 1/3 cup – Adds a satisfying crunch and nutty contrast to the creamy texture.
5. Honey: 2 teaspoons – A drizzle over the top to enhance both sweetness and presentation.

Ingredient Substitutions

Need to work with what you’ve got? Here are some simple swaps:

Cream Cheese: Whipped cream cheese or mascarpone.

Cranberry Sauce: Homemade or store-bought, as long as it’s whole berry.

Fresh Rosemary: Thyme or a pinch of dried rosemary.

Chopped Pecans: Walnuts, almonds, or sunflower seeds.

Honey: Maple syrup or agave nectar.

Ingredient Spotlight

Cranberry Sauce: This tangy, ruby-red sauce doesn’t just bring color. It adds sweet-tart depth that cuts through the richness of the cheese and pairs beautifully with the herbs and nuts.

Cream Cheese: The star of the show, cream cheese turns luxuriously smooth when baked. It anchors the dip with its mellow, tangy flavor and velvety texture.

Instructions for Making Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip

Follow these simple steps and you’ll be digging in before you know it.

1. Preheat Your Equipment:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease an 8-inch baking dish.

2. Combine Ingredients:

Let the cream cheese soften at room temperature for about 15 minutes. Spread it into the bottom of your baking dish using a spatula.

3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel:

Spoon the cranberry sauce evenly over the cream cheese layer. Sprinkle chopped rosemary and half of the chopped pecans on top.

4. Assemble the Dish:

Gently swirl the cranberry sauce with the cream cheese for a marbled effect or keep it layered. Add a final sprinkle of rosemary.

5. Cook to Perfection:

Bake for 18–22 minutes until the edges are bubbly and the top is warmed through.

6. Finishing Touches:

Remove from oven and top with remaining pecans. Drizzle with honey and garnish with fresh herbs.

7. Serve and Enjoy:

Serve warm with crackers, sliced baguette, or apple slices.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

This dip has everything going for it. The base is ultra-creamy and smooth, while the cranberry topping is sweet, tangy, and just slightly sticky. Toasted pecans add crunch, and a drizzle of honey ties everything together with warmth and shine. You get soft, crunchy, sweet, tart, and creamy in every scoop.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Keep these in your back pocket for dip success:

• Don’t overbake—the cream cheese should be melty, not browned.
• Toast the nuts in a dry skillet for 2–3 minutes for extra depth.
• Use room-temperature cream cheese for easier spreading.
• Add a pinch of sea salt if your cranberry sauce is very sweet.

What to Avoid

To make sure your dip turns out perfect every time:

• Don’t use jellied cranberry sauce—it won’t give you the same texture or flavor.
• Avoid cold cream cheese—it won’t spread well and may bake unevenly.
• Don’t skip the honey drizzle—it adds shine and depth to the flavor.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 8
Calories per serving: 220

Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This dip can be assembled up to 1 day in advance and stored in the fridge, covered. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve. Leftovers keep for 3–4 days in the refrigerator and can be reheated gently in the oven or microwave.

How to Serve Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip

Serve it warm straight from the baking dish with crackers, crostini, or apple slices. It also looks lovely presented on a wooden board with holiday garnishes like fresh cranberries, herbs, or mini toasts. A glass of white wine or sparkling cider makes it even more festive.

Creative Leftover Transformations

Don’t let a single spoonful go to waste—here’s how to repurpose:

• Spread on a toasted bagel with turkey slices.
• Use in a sandwich wrap with arugula and grilled chicken.
• Warm and spoon over pancakes or waffles.

Additional Tips

• Choose a shallow baking dish to allow even heating and easy scooping.
• Use flavored cream cheese (like chive or herb) for a twist.
• Add orange zest to the cranberry sauce for a citrus kick.

Make It a Showstopper

Swirl the cranberry sauce beautifully before baking and top with toasted pecans and fresh herbs just before serving. Serve it in a pretty dish on a holiday tray with a variety of crackers and breads. A drizzle of honey adds that glossy, irresistible finish.

Variations to Try

• Spicy Kick: Add a dash of chili flakes or jalapeño slices for a sweet-spicy version.
• Savory Version: Mix in caramelized onions instead of honey.
• Nut-Free: Skip the pecans and use toasted seeds or granola for crunch.
• Herbed Cream Cheese Base: Use garlic and herb cream cheese for a savory boost.
• Mini Servings: Bake in individual ramekins for single-serve holiday appetizers.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble it and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Q2: Can I use jellied cranberry sauce?

It’s best to use whole berry for better texture and flavor.

Q3: Can I make it nut-free?

Absolutely, just skip the pecans or use seeds instead.

Q4: What do I serve with this dip?

Crackers, sliced baguette, apple slices, or even pretzels.

Q5: Can I freeze leftovers?

Cream cheese doesn’t freeze well, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.

Q6: What herbs work best?

Rosemary is great, but thyme or sage also pair beautifully.

Q7: Is this dip sweet or savory?

It’s a perfect balance of both, with creamy, tangy, and sweet notes.

Q8: Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use a larger baking dish and adjust the bake time slightly.

Q9: What kind of honey should I use?

Any mild variety works—clover or wildflower are great choices.

Q10: Can I use flavored cream cheese?

Yes! Herb or garlic-flavored cream cheese adds a tasty twist.

Conclusion

This Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip is everything you want in a holiday appetizer—warm, creamy, sweet, tangy, and just the right amount of festive. It’s easy to throw together, even easier to devour, and guaranteed to become a new favorite at every gathering. Trust me, you’re going to love this.

Print