Thank you for being here today, friend. I can’t think of a cozier way to welcome sweater season than with this ooey-gooey, sweet-meets-savory Sweater Weather Dip. Just imagine—melty cheeses, tangy cranberry, and creamy goodness, all bubbling together in one glorious dish. It’s the kind of warm hug your taste buds didn’t know they needed. 🧣✨
This dip is the ultimate holiday or game-day appetizer: easy to prep, quick to bake, and guaranteed to disappear fast.
💌 Want more comforting appetizers and seasonal bakes like this? Subscribe for recipes straight from my kitchen to your inbox!
Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Dip
- 🧀 Ultra creamy with a perfect cheese pull
- 🍒 Sweet & tangy cranberry swirl to balance the richness
- 🕒 Only 15 minutes of bake time
- 🥣 No mixer needed—just stir and bake
- 🧡 Ideal for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or cozy nights in
What Does It Taste Like?
It’s the best of cheesy dip meets holiday comfort—tangy cranberries, rich sour cream, savory cheddar, and that ever-so-slight sweet swirl of cranberry jam. The top turns golden and bubbly while the inside stays lusciously creamy. Spread it on crackers, dip with pretzels, or serve it with warm crostini… any way you go, it’s heavenly.
🛒 Ingredients (Serves 8)
- 8 oz cream cheese, room temperature
- 1 cup full-fat sour cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella, divided
- ½ cup white cheddar cheese, divided
- ½ cup cranberry sauce or jam (whole berry or preserves work best)
- ½ cup dried cranberries, divided
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Crackers, crostini, or pita chips, for serving
⏱ Time Breakdown
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
🧑🍳 How to Make Sweater Weather Dip
1. Prep the Oven & Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a 9×5-inch baking dish or a 9-inch pie plate.
2. Make the Creamy Base
In a medium bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth and creamy—no lumps! (A fork works fine if it’s softened.)
Add in:
- Sour cream
- ½ cup mozzarella
- ¼ cup cheddar
- ¼ cup dried cranberries
- Salt & black pepper to taste
Stir until well combined.
3. Assemble the Dip
Spread the mixture evenly into your prepared dish.
Spoon cranberry sauce or jam over the top and gently swirl it in using a knife. Don’t fully mix—it’s all about those pretty marbled streaks!
Top with the remaining mozzarella, cheddar, and dried cranberries.
4. Bake
Bake uncovered for 15 minutes, or until golden, bubbly, and the cheese on top is melted and lightly browned.
5. Serve It Up
Let cool slightly, then serve warm with your favorite dippers. It’s especially good with:
- Buttery crackers
- Pretzel crisps
- Baguette slices
- Pita chips
- Even apple slices for a sweet contrast!
💡 Tips & Variations
- Add chopped pecans or walnuts for a little crunch on top before baking.
- Swap white cheddar for gruyère or fontina for a more elegant spin.
- Want it spicier? Add a pinch of crushed red pepper or a spoonful of hot pepper jelly into the cranberry swirl.
Storage & Make-Ahead Notes
- Make ahead: Assemble up to 1 day ahead, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
- Store leftovers: In an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
- Not freezer-friendly—the texture won’t hold up.
FAQs
Can I use low-fat cream cheese or sour cream?
You can, but for the best texture and flavor, full-fat is highly recommended.
Can I use homemade cranberry sauce?
Absolutely! Whole berry homemade sauce or even leftover Thanksgiving cranberry relish works great here.
What kind of dish works best?
A shallow baking dish like a pie plate gives the best ratio of bubbly top to creamy center.
In Conclusion
This Sweater Weather Dip is everything we love about cozy food—rich, melty, sweet, savory, and absolutely addictive. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, planning a wine night, or just want a dip that delivers all the comfort vibes, this one’s a winner.
🧀✨ Want more warm, cheesy inspiration? Try these next:
- Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip
- Spinach Artichoke Skillet Dip
- Garlic Herb Whipped Feta
🍒 Made It? Show Me!
Did you bake up this cozy delight? I’d love to see it! Tag me on Pinterest, drop a comment below, and let me know what you served it with. Bonus points if you enjoyed it in a sweater with a glass of mulled wine. 😉
Nutritional Info (Per Serving – Approximate)
Calories: ~210
Fat: 18g
Carbs: 5g
Sugar: 4g
Protein: 6g
Sodium: ~200mg
Thanks for getting cozy in the kitchen with me today! May your dips be hot, your crackers crispy, and your sweater season delicious. 🧣🍁🧀
