Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip – This Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip recipe is the perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, making it the perfect party appetizer. The creamy and smooth texture of the cream cheese combined with the tangy and slightly tart cranberries and the crunch of the pecans, all make for a delicious and addictive dip that everyone will love. This recipe is so easy to make and can be whipped up in no time for any special occasion or even just as a snack.
I love this Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip so much because it has become a staple in my household. Whenever we have a party or guests over, this is the first thing we make, and it’s always a hit. My husband is a big fan of this recipe and he always asks me to make it for him. I remember the first time I made it, I was a little hesitant because I wasn’t sure how it would turn out, but it ended up being a huge success. The combination of cranberries, sugar, and pecans just works so well together and creates a flavor that is both sweet and tangy, which is so delicious.
Why This Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip is the Perfect Appetizer?
- The sweet and savory combination of flavors is addictive and will have everyone coming back for more.
- The recipe is incredibly easy to make, and you can have it ready in no time.
- The dish is perfect for parties or gatherings and can be served with crackers or pretzel chips.
- The cranberries provide a tangy flavor that is balanced out by the sweetness of the apricot preserves and sugar.
- The addition of chopped pecans adds a delightful crunch to the dip.
- The dip can be made ahead of time, making it a perfect make-ahead appetizer for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 1 package (340 g) frozen whole cranberries (no sugar added), thawed
- 1 cup (200 g) white sugar
- 1 cup (320 g) apricot preserves or jam
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) water
- 1 cup (120 g) chopped pecans
- 2 bricks (8 oz. each, or 454 g) cream cheese, softened
- Buttery crackers or pretzel chips, for serving
- Fresh mint to garnish (optional)
Directions:
Add cranberries, sugar, preserves, and water to a large saucepan.
Heat the saucepan over medium-high heat until boiling.
The mixture will begin to bubble and get frothy as it heats, and you may hear the cranberries sizzling and popping.
Continue to boil for 5 minutes, stirring constantly until the berries are popped open and the mixture begins to darken.
Remove from heat and stir in chopped pecans.
Let the mixture cool from the stove and then refrigerate until completely cooled.
Gently press a spoon in the center of each cream cheese brick to create a divot.
Spoon the cranberry mixture on top of the cream cheese and serve with crackers or pretzel chips.
Garnish with fresh mint, if desired.
Notes:
- For a more tart flavor, you can use unsweetened cranberries or reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe.
- The dip can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
- You can use any type of nuts in this recipe, but pecans add a nice crunch and flavor.
- If you prefer a smoother texture, you can blend the mixture in a food processor before adding the pecans.
- Garnish with fresh mint for a pop of color and added freshness.
In conclusion, this Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip is a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer that is perfect for any occasion. The combination of sweet cranberries, creamy cream cheese, and crunchy pecans creates a flavor and texture explosion that your taste buds will love. Whether you’re hosting a party, bringing a dish to a potluck, or just looking for a tasty snack, this dip is sure to impress. So, grab some crackers or pretzel chips, and get ready to enjoy this irresistible dip!
FAQ
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh cranberries instead of frozen. Just be sure to rinse them and remove any stems before using.
Can I use a different type of nut?
Yes, you can use any type of nuts in this recipe, such as almonds or walnuts. Pecans are recommended for their flavor and texture, but feel free to experiment!
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this dip a day ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature before serving.
What can I serve this dip with?
This dip pairs well with buttery crackers or pretzel chips, but you can also serve it with sliced fruit or vegetables for a healthier option.
Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip
Ingredients
- 1 package 340 g frozen whole cranberries (no sugar added), thawed
- 1 cup 200 g white sugar
- 1 cup 320 g apricot preserves or jam
- 1/2 cup 120 ml water
- 1 cup 120 g chopped pecans
- 2 bricks 8 oz. each, or 454 g cream cheese, softened
- Buttery crackers or pretzel chips for serving
- Fresh mint to garnish optional
Instructions
- Add cranberries, sugar, preserves, and water to a large saucepan.
- Heat the saucepan over medium-high heat until boiling.
- The mixture will begin to bubble and get frothy as it heats, and you may hear the cranberries sizzling and popping.
- Continue to boil for 5 minutes, stirring constantly until the berries are popped open and the mixture begins to darken.
- Remove from heat and stir in chopped pecans.
- Let the mixture cool from the stove and then refrigerate until completely cooled.
- Gently press a spoon in the center of each cream cheese brick to create a divot.
- Spoon the cranberry mixture on top of the cream cheese and serve with crackers or pretzel chips.
- Garnish with fresh mint, if desired.
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