Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip Recipe – Warm Holiday Appetizer with Pecans & Orange Zest
This Warm Cranberry and Cream Cheese Dip is the perfect holiday appetizer—sweet, tangy, and irresistibly creamy! A layer of softened cream cheese is topped with warm cranberry sauce, a hint of orange zest, and crunchy pecans, then baked until bubbly and golden. Serve it with crackers, crostini, or apple slices for a festive starter that’s ready in minutes and guaranteed to impress. Ideal for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any cozy gathering.
Equipment
- Small baking dish or oven-safe ramekin
- Spatula or spoon
- Oven or toaster oven
- Knife and cutting board (for optional toppings)
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened (full-fat recommended)
- ½–¾ cup whole berry cranberry sauce (homemade or canned)
- Optional toppings:
- ½ cup shredded white cheddar ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts1 tbsp diced jalapeños2 tbsp chopped green onions or rosemary
- Optional seasonings: pinch of salt, pepper, or garlic powder
- For serving: crackers, crostini, pita chips, or apple slices
Instructions
- Preheat Oven Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a small baking dish.
- Layer Cream Cheese Spread softened cream cheese evenly in the bottom of the dish.
- Add Cranberry Sauce Spoon cranberry sauce over the cream cheese and gently spread.
- Customize with Toppings Sprinkle on cheddar, pecans, jalapeños, or herbs if using.
- Bake Bake for 15–20 minutes, until bubbly and warmed through.
- Garnish and Rest Let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with rosemary or orange zest.
- Serve Warm Serve with crackers, crostini, or apple slices.
Notes
- Make-Ahead: Assemble up to 2 days in advance and refrigerate unbaked.
- Reheating: Warm leftovers in the oven or microwave until bubbly.
- No Freezing: Cream cheese may become grainy when thawed.
- Flavor Tip: Homemade cranberry sauce with orange zest adds a gourmet touch.
- Leftovers: Spread on toast or turkey sandwiches the next day!