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Sweet & Savory Baked Cranberry Cheddar Dip: An Irresistible Holiday Appetizer

Sweet & Savory Baked Cranberry Cheddar Dip: An Irresistible Holiday Appetizer

As the chill of autumn deepens and the scent of cinnamon and pine begins to fill the air, my thoughts inevitably turn to holiday gatherings. There’s a cert...
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 18 minutes
Total Time 33 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Calories: 145
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 8 ounces full-fat cream cheese, softened to room temperature for smooth mixing (Neufchâtel cheese can be substituted for a slightly lighter option).
  • 2 cups (approximately 8 ounces) extra-sharp white cheddar cheese, freshly grated and divided (1½ cups for mixing, ½ cup for topping). While yellow cheddar works, white cheddar provides a cleaner visual.
  • ¼ heaping cup cranberry sauce, either store-bought, homemade (see recipe below), or leftover from your holiday feast.
  • ½ cup fresh whole cranberries, for a delightful burst of tartness and texture (frozen cranberries can be used directly, without thawing).
  • ⅛ to ¼ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg, optional but highly recommended for adding a subtle warmth and aromatic complexity.
  • For the Optional Homemade Cranberry Sauce:
  • 12 ounces fresh or frozen cranberries (do not thaw if using frozen).
  • 1 cup granulated sugar (cane sugar or white sugar both work well).
  • 3 tablespoons fresh orange juice, ideally from a naval orange for best flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice.
  • ¼ cup water.

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Prepare the Optional Homemade Cranberry Sauce (If Using): If you're making your own cranberry sauce from scratch, begin by combining the 12 ounces of fresh or frozen cranberries, 1 cup of granulated sugar, 3 tablespoons of orange juice, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, and ¼ cup of water in a medium saucepan. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar. Continue to cook for about 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cranberries have burst open and the sauce has visibly thickened. This simmering process allows the pectin in the cranberries to release, creating a naturally thick and luscious sauce. Remove from the heat and let it cool completely before incorporating it into your dip.
  2. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a small oven-safe baking dish, such as an 8x8 inch square, an oval gratin dish, or a shallow round pie plate. A quick spray of cooking oil or a thin smear of butter will prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
  3. Combine the Creamy Base: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the 8 ounces of softened cream cheese, 1½ cups of the freshly grated extra-sharp white cheddar cheese, the ¼ heaping cup of cranberry sauce, and the optional ⅛ to ¼ teaspoon of nutmeg. Using a sturdy spoon or a rubber spatula, mix all the ingredients together until they are thoroughly combined and relatively smooth. The softened cream cheese is crucial here for achieving a uniform, lump-free base.
  4. Assemble the Dip: Carefully spread the prepared cream cheese mixture evenly into the bottom of your lightly greased baking dish. Aim for an even layer to ensure consistent baking.
  5. Top and Adorn: Evenly sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of grated extra-sharp white cheddar cheese over the top of the cream cheese mixture. This layer will melt into a beautiful, golden-brown crust. Finally, scatter the ½ cup of whole fresh (or frozen) cranberries over the top. These will soften and burst slightly during baking, adding both visual appeal and a fresh pop of tartness.
  6. Bake to Bubbly Perfection: Place the baking dish into the preheated oven. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the dip is gloriously bubbly around the edges and the top layer of cheddar has melted and turned a beautiful, lightly golden brown. The bubbling indicates that the dip is heated through and the flavors have melded.
  7. Rest and Serve: Once baked, carefully remove the dip from the oven. Allow it to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This brief resting period allows the dip to set slightly, making it easier to scoop and preventing it from being too runny. Serve warm with your favorite accompaniments.