Thank you so much for dropping by today! Whether you’re planning your holiday menu, hosting a game day get-together, or just in the mood for something warm, melty, and downright irresistible—this Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip is exactly what you need. 🎄🧀
It’s sweet, savory, tangy, and ooey-gooey cheesy in all the best ways. The cream cheese gives it that rich, creamy base, the mozzarella melts into a glorious golden blanket, and the cranberries add that beautiful burst of color and tartness. In other words… it’s the kind of dip that disappears in minutes. Seriously—don’t blink!
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Why You’ll Love This Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip
- 🧀 Ultra creamy & cheesy with a hint of rosemary
- 🍒 Perfectly balanced with tangy cranberries and savory cheese
- 🎄 Holiday-perfect in color and flavor
- ⏱️ Quick to make—just 10 minutes to prep, 25 to bake!
- ⭐ A guaranteed hit at every party
What Does It Taste Like?
This dip is the ultimate combo of cozy and festive. The cream cheese base is rich and silky, the mozzarella gives you that stretchy, cheesy pull, and the cranberries (both fresh and saucy!) cut through it with just enough tart sweetness to keep you coming back for more.
Add in a touch of rosemary and garlic, and it becomes this rustic, savory-sweet dip that feels both elegant and comforting. It’s like a cheeseboard in warm, melty dip form!
🥣 Ingredients
- 2 (8 oz) blocks cream cheese, softened
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- ½ teaspoon crushed dried rosemary
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ cup whole berry cranberry sauce (canned is perfect)
- ⅔ cup fresh cranberries
🧰 Tools You’ll Need
- 8×8-inch baking dish or small cast-iron skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Hand mixer or spatula
- Measuring spoons
- Oven, of course!
👩🍳 Directions – How to Make Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 375°F and lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish (or use a small cast-iron skillet for rustic vibes).
2. Mix the Creamy Base
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
3. Add the Cheese & Seasoning
Stir in 2 cups of shredded mozzarella, rosemary, and garlic powder. Mix until well combined.
4. Fold in the Cranberries
Gently fold in the cranberry sauce and fresh cranberries, keeping a few whole for texture and pop.
5. Transfer to Baking Dish
Spread the mixture evenly into your prepared dish or skillet.
6. Top with More Cheese
Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella on top for that gooey, golden finish.
7. Bake Until Bubbly
Bake for 22–26 minutes, or until hot, bubbly, and lightly golden around the edges.
8. Serve Warm
Serve immediately with your favorite crackers, toasted baguette slices, or pita chips. It’s best hot out of the oven—melty and magical!
💡 Tips & Serving Ideas
- Drizzle with hot honey after baking for a sweet-heat combo you’ll crave again and again.
- Swap the rosemary for fresh thyme or a touch of sage for a different flavor profile.
- Serve in a mini skillet or holiday-themed dish for extra charm.
- Want to prep ahead? Assemble the dip, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake (up to 24 hours in advance).
- Leftovers? Spread it on a toasted sandwich or use it as a stuffing for crescent rolls!
What to Serve With Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip
- Buttery Ritz crackers
- Toasted baguette rounds
- Pita chips or flatbread wedges
- Pretzel crisps for salty crunch
- Apple slices (seriously—game changer!)
Storage & Reheating
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 325°F until bubbly again, or microwave individual portions for 30 seconds.
FAQs About Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip
Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?
Fresh cranberries give the best pop and tartness, but dried cranberries can be used in a pinch—just soak them in warm water first to plump them up.
Can I use homemade cranberry sauce?
Absolutely! Just make sure it’s thick and not too runny.
Is this very sweet?
Not overly! The cranberry sauce adds mild sweetness, but the garlic, rosemary, and cheeses keep it balanced and savory.
Can I make this without mozzarella?
You can substitute with Monterey Jack, white cheddar, or a mozzarella-cheddar blend!
In Conclusion
This Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip is the kind of recipe that turns a casual gathering into a memorable moment. It’s warm, comforting, and festive—everything you want from a holiday appetizer or cozy winter snack. Whether you’re feeding friends, family, or just yourself (no judgment!), this is a dish that brings everyone together around the table.
🍷 Pair it with a glass of wine, cue up the holiday music, and dig in—it’s that kind of dish.
Want More Cozy Dips?
- 🧀 Hot Spinach Artichoke Dip
- 🥓 Warm Bacon Cheddar Ranch Dip
- 🍅 Baked Caprese Dip with Toasted Baguette
Made This Recipe? Let’s See It!
I’d love to see your cranberry creations! Tag me on Pinterest, leave a review below, and let me know: did you add hot honey? Serve it in a skillet? I can’t wait to hear how it turned out. 💬✨
Nutritional Info (Approx. Per Serving – 1 of 8)
Calories: ~280
Fat: 22g
Carbs: 7g
Protein: 10g
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: ~320mg
Thanks again for joining me in the kitchen today! Here’s to dips that dazzle, cheese that stretches, and cranberries that make everything just a little more magical. 🍒🧀
