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Perfect Homemade Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 3.9 from 44 reviews
  • Author: Mariam
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Perfect Homemade Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip combines the tartness of fresh cranberries with the rich creaminess of smooth cream cheese, enhanced by crunchy pecans and fresh green onions. Warmed cranberry and sugar mixture creates a luscious, slightly thickened base that blends beautifully, making it a delightful and festive appetizer perfect for gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Base

  • 8 ounces Cream Cheese (Softened at room temperature for about 30 minutes)

Cranberry Mixture

  • 1 cup Fresh Cranberries (Rinsed and stems removed)
  • 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar (Adjust sweetness to taste)

Add-ins and Seasoning

  • 1/4 cup Chopped Pecans (Finely chopped, toasting optional)
  • 2 tablespoons Chopped Green Onions (Finely chopped for freshness)
  • 1 pinch Salt (Enhances flavors)

Instructions

  1. Soften Cream Cheese: Allow the cream cheese to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to become soft and easy to blend.
  2. Prepare Cranberries: Rinse the fresh cranberries thoroughly under cold water, removing any stems or blemished berries to ensure a clean taste and texture.
  3. Cook Cranberries and Sugar: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the cranberries and granulated sugar. Cook for approximately 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens slightly, creating a sweet-tart sauce.
  4. Cool Cranberry Mixture: Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the cranberry mixture to cool for about 15 minutes to prevent melting the cream cheese in the next step.
  5. Beat Cream Cheese: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it becomes creamy and smooth, ensuring a perfect dip texture.
  6. Combine Ingredients: Gently fold the cooled cranberry mixture into the cream cheese, mixing evenly for a well-blended dip.
  7. Add Pecans and Green Onions: Fold in the finely chopped pecans and fresh green onions to add texture and flavor contrasts.
  8. Season and Adjust: Add a pinch of salt to enhance flavors and taste to adjust sweetness if needed for balance.
  9. Chill the Dip: Transfer the dip to a serving bowl, cover, and refrigerate for at least one hour to let the flavors meld and the texture firm up.
  10. Serve: Present the dip with assorted dippers such as crackers, fresh fruit, or vegetable sticks for guests to enjoy.

Notes

  • Softening the cream cheese properly is key for a smooth dip.
  • Toasting the pecans enhances their flavor but is optional.
  • Adjust sugar quantity based on the tartness of cranberries and personal preference.
  • Refrigeration time helps the dip firm up and the flavors combine.
  • This dip is perfect for holiday parties and casual gatherings alike.

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Find it online: https://quickcookingmagic.com/perfect-homemade-cranberry-cream-cheese-dip-recipe/