Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Festive and beautiful — perfect for holiday gatherings.
Only a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time.
Combines creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors perfectly.
Can be made ahead of time for easy entertaining.
Pairs wonderfully with crackers, bread, or pretzels.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Cream cheese (softened to room temperature)
Fresh or frozen cranberries
Granulated sugar
Orange juice (or water)
Orange zest (optional, for extra citrus flavor)
Vanilla extract (optional)
Pinch of salt
Fresh rosemary or green onion (optional, for garnish)
Crackers, crostini, or pretzels for serving

Directions

In a small saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, and orange juice. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
Cook for about 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens slightly.
Remove from heat and stir in orange zest, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Allow to cool completely.
While the cranberry mixture cools, spread the softened cream cheese evenly on a serving plate or shallow dish.
Once cooled, spoon the cranberry topping over the cream cheese layer, spreading gently.
Garnish with chopped rosemary, green onions, or a little extra zest if desired.
Serve immediately with crackers, toasted bread, or pretzels.

Servings and timing

Serves about 8 people as an appetizer.
Prep time: 10 minutes.
Cook time: 10 minutes.
Chill time: 10 minutes (optional).
Total time: about 25–30 minutes.

Variations

Spicy version: Add a finely chopped jalapeño or a pinch of chili flakes to the cranberry mixture for a sweet-spicy twist.
Herbed version: Add chopped fresh thyme or rosemary to the cranberry sauce for a savory note.
Nutty topping: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top for crunch.
Whipped version: Blend cream cheese with a bit of sour cream or yogurt for a lighter texture.
Citrus twist: Replace orange juice with pomegranate juice or add a splash of lemon for a different tang.
Layered dip: Spread cream cheese on the bottom, cranberry sauce in the middle, and sprinkle with herbs or nuts on top for a beautiful presentation.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Serve chilled or allow to sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving.
Do not freeze, as the texture of the cream cheese and cranberry topping may change.
If making ahead, keep the cranberry sauce and cream cheese separate until ready to serve.

FAQs

Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the cranberry topping up to 3 days in advance. Keep it refrigerated and assemble the dip just before serving.

Can I use canned cranberry sauce?

Yes — whole-berry cranberry sauce works well in place of homemade. Add a little orange zest or juice to freshen up the flavor.

What can I serve with it?

Crackers, pretzel chips, pita chips, baguette slices, or apple slices all pair beautifully with this dip.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Yes, low-fat or Neufchâtel cheese works fine, though the texture will be slightly lighter.

Can I use dried cranberries?

For best results, use fresh or frozen cranberries. Dried cranberries don’t break down the same way, but can be used in a compote if simmered with extra liquid.

Is this dip served hot or cold?

It’s delicious either way! Serve chilled for a cool, creamy appetizer or warm the cream cheese slightly before topping for a melty version.

Can I make it spicy?

Yes, add diced jalapeño, a pinch of cayenne, or drizzle hot honey over the top before serving.

How do I thicken the cranberry sauce?

Simmer a few extra minutes until it coats the back of a spoon — it will also thicken more as it cools.

Can I use flavored cream cheese?

Yes, plain or lightly flavored (like honey or herb) cream cheese both work well. Avoid strong flavors that might overpower the cranberries.

How long can it sit out?

It can sit at room temperature for up to 2 hours. After that, refrigerate any leftovers.

Conclusion

Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip is a simple yet elegant appetizer that combines sweet-tart cranberry sauce with smooth, tangy cream cheese for an irresistible flavor pairing. With its festive look and effortless preparation, it’s the perfect addition to any holiday table or party spread — creamy, colorful, and crowd-pleasing every time.

Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip is a festive, creamy appetizer featuring a layer of smooth cream cheese topped with tangy, sweet cranberry sauce. Bright, flavorful, and easy to make, it’s the perfect holiday appetizer or last-minute party dip that pairs beautifully with crackers, crostini, or pretzels.

Author: Laura
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25–30 minutes
Yield: Serves 8
Category: Appetizer
Method: Stovetop / No-bake
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

In a small saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, and orange juice. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
Cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cranberries burst and mixture thickens slightly.
Remove from heat and stir in orange zest, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Let cool completely.
Spread the softened cream cheese evenly onto a serving plate or shallow dish.
Spoon the cooled cranberry topping over the cream cheese layer and spread gently.
Garnish with rosemary, green onions, or orange zest if desired.
Serve immediately with crackers, crostini, or pretzels.

Notes

Prepare the cranberry sauce up to 3 days ahead and store separately in the fridge.
For a spicy twist, add diced jalapeño or drizzle hot honey before serving.
Serve warm or chilled — both are delicious.
Whole-berry canned cranberry sauce can be substituted for homemade.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
Calories: 120
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 110mg
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 25mg