Description
This festive dip combines tangy homemade cranberry sauce, velvety cream cheese, and sparkly sugared cranberries for a sweet-tart, creamy, and crunchy appetizer that’s perfect for parties, brunches, or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz fresh or frozen cranberries
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 8 oz full-fat cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup fresh cranberries (for topping)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for coating cranberries)
- 2 tablespoons water (for sugared cranberries)
Instructions
- Make the Sugared Cranberries: In a small saucepan, combine 2 tablespoons water and 1/4 cup granulated sugar over medium heat. Stir until sugar is dissolved, but do not boil.
- Remove from heat and add 1/2 cup fresh cranberries, tossing to coat. Let sit for 2 minutes.
- Using a slotted spoon, transfer cranberries to a wire rack and let dry for 30 minutes.
- Roll cranberries in another 1/4 cup granulated sugar until well coated. Set aside for topping.
- Prepare the Cranberry Sauce: In a medium saucepan, add 12 oz cranberries, 3/4 cup granulated sugar, 1/4 cup orange juice, 1 tablespoon orange zest, 1/2 cup water, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract.
- Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Cook for 10-12 minutes, until cranberries burst and sauce thickens.
- Remove from heat and let cool for 10 minutes. For a smooth dip, puree sauce in a blender or food processor.
- Mix the Creamy Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine 8 oz softened cream cheese, 1/2 cup sour cream, and 2 tablespoons powdered sugar.
- Beat with electric mixer or whisk for 2-3 minutes, until smooth and fluffy.
- Combine & Layer: Fold cooled cranberry sauce into the cream cheese mixture. For a layered look, swirl sauce on top instead of mixing completely.
- Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.
- Serve & Garnish: Spoon dip into a serving bowl. Top with sugared cranberries and extra orange zest. Optionally, garnish with fresh mint or crushed pecans.
- Serve immediately, or chill for up to 2 hours for a firmer texture.
Notes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Mixing and Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: Creamy Cranberry Dip, Holiday Appetizer, Party Dip