How to make the Perfect Appetizer Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip

Make no mistake, this Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip is excellent loaded with Extra Sharp White Cheddar Cheese, Cream Cheese, Cranberry Sauce and Fresh Cranberries. It's a little party in your mouth! Who doesn't love an appetizer to get your tastebuds ready for the main event. Am I right? I've got you covered with this easy to make Appetizer Recipe for the Holidays and you will come back for more, trust me.

Tillamook makes a delicious Extra Sharp White Cheddar Cheese, don't be mistaken as they also make a Sharp White Cheddar Cheese. I prefer using the Extra Sharp White Cheddar in this recipe. The cheddar pairs so nicely with the sweet and tangy Cranberry Sauce, you will love it.

I love a meal that starts with an appetizer or two, but do you know how many appetizers you will want to serve for your party? I've got you covered with the perfect amount of appetizers for your gathering to keep everyone happy while still having a nice variety. Trust me, I've followed this guid for years and it has never failed me.

How Many Appetizers do I need?

Number of Appetizer Recipes	When Hosting # of people
3 Appetizer Recipes	8-10 People
4-5 Appetizer Recipes	14-16 People
6 Appetizer Recipes	20+ People

Depending on the appetizer served will determine portions but keep in mind that when you host an event having multiple appetizers is always welcome.

Let's talk about making this delicious Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip, It's easily thrown together but I've tested this recipe over and over and one thing I know, make Fresh Cranberry Sauce. It can easily made in the Instant Pot or on the Stove in just a few mins with only a few ingredients and let me tell you. It makes a difference!

How to make Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip

Start by making sure you use Softened Cream Cheese. Don't fool yourself into thinking you can microwave cream cheese for a few seconds and get away with it. Set Cream Cheese out on the counter for at least an hour before you wish to make this Appetizer Recipe.

Grate Extra Sharp White Cheddar. I like to use a cheese grater with larger grating holes so I have nice big texture. I wouldn't recommend using pre-graded cheese as it's tossed in flour and tends to melt a little differently than a block of cheese that has been grated.

In a large bowl combine softened cream cheese with grated cheese and Cranberry Sauce. Then go ahead and dice up a few fresh cranberries into small diced pieces. Fresh cranberries can be very tart, almost bitter. Once they are cooked the flavor tends to soften and mesh with other ingredients so much more.

Stir mixture until well combined and place in a baking dish. Sprinkle extra cheese on top and Bake at 350 Degrees for 20-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.

Serve with sliced French Baguette, French Bread, or Artisan Bread. I like to have many dipping options to allow my family and guests to choose what they prefer. I find this recipe will feed 4-6 people nicely or 6-8 people when served with other Appetizer Recipes.

Ingredients in Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip

• 2 Cups Extra Sharp White Cheddar Cheese (8oz)
• 8oz Cream Cheese Softened
• ⅓ Cup Cranberry Sauce
• ¼ Diced Fresh Cranberries
• 2 Tbs Orange Zest

How to Reheat Cranberry Dip

This recipe is best served hot. To reheat, place covered in preheated 350 oven for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.

How long will Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip Last?

Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip will last up to a week if stored properly in the refrigerator.

Can I make Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip ahead?

Yes, you can make Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip ahead of time if needed. Make as direction and cover with Aluminum Foil and store in refrigerator until ready to heat. You can make this the day before if needed

Can I use Canned Cranberry Sauce?

Canned Cranberry Sauce, either whole or Jelly, can be used in this recipe. Fresh Cranberry Sauce is wonderful and won't disappoint with only a little extra effort.

Can I cut recipe in half?

Making a small batch is easily done when cutting recipe in half. Perfect for a small family gathering.

Can I freeze Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip

I would not recommend freezing Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip. Some of the ingredients don't freeze well.

Guest Approved Appetizer Recipes

• Cranberry Brie Bites
• French Onion Meatballs
• Easy Cheese Fondue
• White Cheddar Cheese Ball
• Pineapple Cheese Ball
• Caramelized Onion and Mushroom Appetizer
• Honey Teriyaki Chicken Wings
• Mac and Cheese Bites
• Honey Balsamic Steak Bites
• Tater Tot Kabobs
• Cowboy Dipping Sauce

The holidays are rapidly approaching, and while holiday get-togethers may not look the same as every other year, the entertaining, food and drinks are still just as important. These simple entertaining ideas are sure to help. Smoked Salmon Cream Cheese Appetizer from Chipa by the DozenChristmas Appetizer Tree from Design Dazzle Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip from Devour DinnerCranberry Brie Bites from Fresh Coast EatsEasy Holiday Bar from Hoosier HomemadeSausage Balls from House of Nash Eats Spinach Artichoke Dip Wonton Cups from J Z Eats Dried Beef Cheese Balls from Marty's Musings Cherry Cream Cheese Puff Bundles from My Uncommon Slice of Suburbia Christmas Crunch Popcorn Snack Mix from Rose BakesEggnog from Savory Experiments Blue and White Tablescape from Sondra Lyn at Home Cranberry Goat Cheese Tarts from Tastes of Homemade Mushroom Puff Pastry Bites from The How to Home