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A hand dipping a round cracker into a festive bowl of Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip, topped with herbs and surrounded by fresh cranberries.

Sweet & Tangy Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip

This easy-to-make dip features a creamy, sweet cream cheese base topped with vibrant whole berry cranberry sauce and a hint of orange zest. It's perfect for holiday gatherings or a festive snack.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 10 servings
Course: Appetizer, Holiday, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 280
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cream Cheese Layer
  • 2 blocks Cream Cheese 8 oz each, softened at room temperature
  • 1/2 cup Powdered Sugar
  • 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
  • 1 tsp Orange Zest from about 1/2 a medium orange
For the Cranberry Topping
  • 1 can Whole Berry Cranberry Sauce 14 oz
  • 1/4 cup Chopped Pecans toasted, optional for garnish
For Serving
  • 1 box Assorted Crackers
  • 1 cup Apple Slices or Pear Slices

Equipment

  • Medium Mixing Bowl
  • Electric mixer (handheld or stand)
  • Rubber Spatula
  • Serving Dish or Platter
  • Zester (optional)

Method
 

Prepare the Cream Cheese Base
  1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and orange zest. Use an electric mixer to beat the mixture on medium speed until it is smooth, creamy, and well combined, about 2-3 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
Assemble the Dip
  1. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly onto a shallow serving dish or platter, forming a layer about 1/2 to 1 inch thick.
  2. Carefully spoon the whole berry cranberry sauce over the cream cheese layer, spreading it gently to cover. If desired, sprinkle the toasted chopped pecans over the cranberry sauce for added crunch and garnish.
Chill and Serve
  1. Cover the dip with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the dip to firm up slightly. This also makes it easier to scoop.
  2. Serve chilled with an assortment of crackers, gingerbread cookies, or fresh fruit slices like apples and pears.

Notes

This dip can be made up to 24 hours in advance. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For a slightly tarter dip, you can add 1 tablespoon of fresh orange juice to the cream cheese mixture.