Get ready to dip into deliciousness with this Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip! It’s a delightful side dish that adds a pop of color and burst of flavor to any meal. This sweet and tangy dip, with its vibrant cranberries and rich cream cheese, is a crowd-pleaser that you simply have to try.
My small family simply adores this Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip. It all started when my youngest decided to experiment with some leftover cranberries during the holidays. She mixed them with cream cheese and presented her creation at our dinner table. The explosion of flavors was a delightful surprise and since then, this dip has become a must-have in our holiday spreads.
Why This Cranberry Cream Cheese Creation is a Hit ?
This Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip is a true star. With its vibrant red cranberries and creamy white cheese, it is as visually appealing as it is delicious. The sweetness of the apricot preserves pairs beautifully with the tart cranberries, while the pecans add a delightful crunch. Not to mention, it’s a breeze to prepare. Serve it up with some crackers or pretzel chips, and watch your guests come back for seconds!
Ingredients:
- Whole cranberries (frozen, no sugar added) – 340g (1 package)
- White sugar – 200g (1 cup)
- Apricot preserves or jam – 320g (1 cup)
- Water – 120 ml (1/2 cup)
- Pecans (chopped) – 120g (1 cup)
- Cream cheese (softened) – 454g (2 bricks)
- Buttery crackers or pretzel chips – for serving
- Fresh mint – optional, to garnish
How to Masterfully Prepare Your Cranberry Cream Cheese Delight ?
Start off by gathering your cranberries, sugar, apricot preserves, and water into a spacious saucepan.
Apply medium-high heat, stirring the ingredients occasionally, until you achieve a boil.
As the heat intensifies, you’ll notice the mixture beginning to bubble and froth, and the cranberries will start to sizzle and pop.
Stay with the boiling mixture for approximately 5 minutes, making sure to continuously stir. Continue this until you notice the berries have opened up and the concoction has taken on a darker shade.
Once achieved, take the saucepan away from the heat and mix in your chopped pecans.
Let the mixture cool down to room temperature before placing it in the refrigerator until it cools completely.
Using a spoon, make a shallow well in the center of each cream cheese brick.
Ladle the now cooled cranberry mixture onto the cream cheese and serve with your chosen crackers or pretzel chips.
Optionally, elevate your presentation by garnishing with fresh mint.
Notes:
You can experiment with different types of nuts for a twist on flavor and texture. You can also use fresh cranberries if available. This Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip is also a fantastic make-ahead option for parties!
Conclusion: This Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip offers a delightful blend of sweet, tart, and creamy flavors. It’s a versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of snacks. Try it out and experience the burst of flavors in this delectable dip!
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Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of frozen ones?
Yes, fresh cranberries can be used if they’re available. The result will be equally delicious!
Can I substitute the pecans with other nuts?
Definitely! Feel free to use your favorite nuts. Walnuts or almonds would be great alternatives.
Can this dip be made ahead of time?
Yes, this Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip can be prepared a day ahead, refrigerated and served when needed. It’s a fantastic time-saver for parties!
Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip
Ingredients
- Whole cranberries frozen, no sugar added - 340g (1 package)
- White sugar - 200g 1 cup
- Apricot preserves or jam - 320g 1 cup
- Water - 120 ml 1/2 cup
- Pecans chopped - 120g (1 cup)
- Cream cheese softened - 454g (2 bricks)
- Buttery crackers or pretzel chips - for serving
- Fresh mint - optional to garnish
Instructions
- Start off by gathering your cranberries, sugar, apricot preserves, and water into a spacious saucepan.
- Apply medium-high heat, stirring the ingredients occasionally, until you achieve a boil.
- As the heat intensifies, you'll notice the mixture beginning to bubble and froth, and the cranberries will start to sizzle and pop.
- Stay with the boiling mixture for approximately 5 minutes, making sure to continuously stir. Continue this until you notice the berries have opened up and the concoction has taken on a darker shade.
- Once achieved, take the saucepan away from the heat and mix in your chopped pecans.
- Let the mixture cool down to room temperature before placing it in the refrigerator until it cools completely.
- Using a spoon, make a shallow well in the center of each cream cheese brick.
- Ladle the now cooled cranberry mixture onto the cream cheese and serve with your chosen crackers or pretzel chips.
- Optionally, elevate your presentation by garnishing with fresh mint.
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