If you are searching for a cozy, crowd-pleasing appetizer this holiday season, the Baked Cream Cheese Cranberry Dip Recipe is your new best friend. This delightful dip combines the rich, tangy cream cheese base with the vibrant sweetness of whole berry cranberry sauce, enhanced by fresh rosemary and a hint of orange zest. It’s warm, bubbly, and irresistible, making it the perfect starter to elevate any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a festive party or craving a comforting snack, this dip delivers incredible flavor with simple, wholesome ingredients.

Baked Cream Cheese Cranberry Dip Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Baked Cream Cheese Cranberry Dip Recipe uses straightforward, easy-to-find ingredients that all play a crucial role in balancing flavor and texture. Each element is selected to complement the others perfectly, ensuring a creamy yet lively dish with just the right freshness and aroma.

Cream cheese (8 oz block, softened): The rich, creamy base that makes the dip smooth and indulgent.
Sour cream (½ cup): Adds a subtle tang and helps keep the dip light and luscious.
Whole berry cranberry sauce (1 cup): Brings a burst of sweet and tart flavor with a lovely texture.
Orange zest (½ teaspoon): Provides a bright citrus note to balance the sweetness.
Fresh rosemary (1 teaspoon chopped or ¼ teaspoon dried): Offers an earthy, aromatic depth that lifts the dip.
Garlic powder (½ teaspoon): Adds a mild savory kick without overpowering the other flavors.
Salt (¼ teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors and rounds out the taste.
Shredded white cheddar or mozzarella (½ cup, optional): For a gooey, golden topping that makes the dip even more inviting.
Crackers, crostini, or sliced baguette: Perfect for scooping and enjoying every creamy bite.

How to Make Baked Cream Cheese Cranberry Dip Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Base

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. This temp is just right to warm the dip through without drying it out. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, salt, and orange zest. Stir everything until the mixture is silky smooth and creamy, ensuring no lumps remain. This blend forms the luscious base of the dip that will beautifully contrast with the cranberry topping.

Step 2: Layer the Ingredients

Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly into a small oven-safe baking dish. This step is key to getting even cooking and a nice presentation. Next, spoon the whole berry cranberry sauce generously over the creamy layer. The vibrant red color will look stunning against the white base. Sprinkle the chopped rosemary on top for that fresh, herbaceous aroma that makes the dip irresistible before baking.

Step 3: Add Cheese Topping (Optional)

If you love a little cheesy indulgence, sprinkle shredded white cheddar or mozzarella on top now. This optional step creates a beautifully melted and slightly golden crust that adds texture and extra flavor. If you prefer a lighter dip, you can skip the cheese and still enjoy a rich, creamy bite bursting with cranberry goodness.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 18 to 22 minutes, until the dip is warm, bubbly around the edges, and the cheese is melted and lightly browned if used. Baking helps all the flavors meld together, delivering a luscious, comforting dip that’s best enjoyed fresh from the oven while warm.

How to Serve Baked Cream Cheese Cranberry Dip Recipe

Garnishes

Add a few fresh rosemary sprigs or an extra sprinkle of orange zest on top just before serving to enhance the aroma and make your dip look as stunning as it tastes. You can also scatter chopped pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch and festive flair.

Side Dishes

Serve the dip alongside an array of crackers, toasted crostini, or sliced baguette to provide the perfect vehicle for scooping up every bite. For a lighter option, crisp vegetable sticks like celery or carrot can add a refreshing crunch and balance the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider serving the dip in a charming ceramic dish surrounded by a ring of crackers and fresh herbs for an attractive appetizer spread. You can also make individual portions in small ramekins for an elegant party presentation. For a fun twist, hollow out a small round bread loaf and use it as an edible bowl for the dip.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Baked Cream Cheese Cranberry Dip Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy the flavors with minimal effort later on.

Freezing

This dip freezes well if you want to prepare ahead of time. Transfer it to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to one month. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 10 to 15 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions on medium power, stirring occasionally to keep the creamy texture perfect.

FAQs

Can I make this Baked Cream Cheese Cranberry Dip Recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute dairy-free cream cheese and sour cream alternatives to suit your dietary needs, and choose a dairy-free cheese or skip it altogether. The cranberry and herb flavors will still shine brilliantly.

What can I use instead of fresh rosemary?

If fresh rosemary isn’t available, dried rosemary works well in this recipe. Just use about a quarter of the amount you would fresh. Thyme can be a nice herb substitute too if you want a slightly different flavor profile.

Is homemade cranberry sauce better than canned for this recipe?

Both canned and homemade cranberry sauce work wonderfully here. Homemade cranberry sauce offers a fresher, sometimes less sweet option while canned is super convenient and adds the classic flavor we all love.

Can I prepare this dip in advance?

Absolutely! You can mix everything except the cranberry topping and cheese the night before. On the day of your event, just add the toppings and bake fresh for the best texture and flavor.

How spicy or savory is this dip?

This dip leans more towards mildly savory with a nice balance of sweet tartness from the cranberries. The garlic powder and rosemary add subtle depth without overpowering, making it a crowd-friendly choice.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly magical about the Baked Cream Cheese Cranberry Dip Recipe that makes every gathering feel a little more special. It’s easy to prepare, packed with layers of flavor, and perfect for sharing with loved ones. Give it a try at your next celebration, and I promise it will become a beloved favorite just like it is in my kitchen!

Baked Cream Cheese Cranberry Dip Recipe

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4 from 71 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Baked Cream Cheese Cranberry Dip is a warm, festive appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings. Creamy softened cream cheese and sour cream are combined with subtle flavors of orange zest, garlic, and rosemary, then topped with vibrant whole berry cranberry sauce and optional shredded cheese. Baked until bubbly and served with crackers or sliced bread, this dip is both delicious and visually appealing, making it an ideal starter for parties and celebrations.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened
½ cup sour cream
½ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon orange zest
1 teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary (or ¼ teaspoon dried)
1 cup whole berry cranberry sauce (canned or homemade)
½ cup shredded white cheddar or mozzarella cheese (optional, for topping)

For Serving

Crackers, crostini, or sliced baguette

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Instructions

Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to preheat while you prepare the dip.
Mix Base Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, salt, and orange zest. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and creamy without lumps.
Assemble Dip: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly into a small oven-safe baking dish to create a uniform layer.
Add Cranberry and Herbs: Spoon the whole berry cranberry sauce over the cream cheese layer. Then sprinkle the chopped fresh rosemary evenly over the top. If using, sprinkle shredded white cheddar or mozzarella cheese on top as a finishing touch.
Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the dip is warm and bubbly around the edges, and the cheese topping is melted and lightly golden if used.
Serve: Remove from oven and serve immediately with crackers, crostini, or sliced baguette for dipping.

Notes

For a festive twist, add a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking to add crunch and flavor.
You can substitute goat cheese for cream cheese for a tangier and slightly different texture.
This dip can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving to save effort during gatherings.
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving again.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American