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Easy Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip for Holiday Gatherings

Close-up of a layered cranberry cream cheese dip topped with whole pecans and chopped green onions.
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Make this simple, layered Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip for your next party. It features a creamy base topped with a sweet and tangy cranberry mixture, finished with pecans for texture. This no-bake appetizer is perfect for Thanksgiving or Christmas.

Ingredients

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  • 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 (14 ounce) can whole berry cranberry sauce
  • 1/4 cup chopped pecans, toasted
  • 1 tablespoon orange zest
  • 1 tablespoon finely chopped green onion (optional garnish)

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sour cream, sugar, and vanilla extract together until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
  2. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly onto a shallow serving plate or pie dish.
  3. In a separate small bowl, gently stir the whole berry cranberry sauce, toasted pecans, and orange zest together. Do not overmix; you want some texture remaining.
  4. Carefully spoon the cranberry mixture over the cream cheese layer, spreading it gently to cover the surface.
  5. Chill the dip in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the dip to firm up.
  6. Before serving this festive cream cheese appetizer, sprinkle the top with chopped green onion, if using.
  7. Serve cold with crackers, cinnamon pita chips, or fresh apple slices.

Notes

  • For a slightly different flavor profile, substitute walnuts for pecans in the topping.
  • If you prefer a spicier kick in your holiday appetizer dip, stir 1/2 teaspoon of finely minced jalapeño (seeds removed) into the cranberry topping mixture.
  • You can prepare the cream cheese base one day ahead and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Add the topping just before serving.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://mdlatdmm.com/cranberry-cream-cheese-dip-recipe/