Ingredients
Scale
- 16 oz block of cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup cranberries (fresh or dried)
- 1 tbsp orange zest (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 tbsp orange juice or water
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Base
Allow the cream cheese to soften to room temperature. In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until it becomes light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt, and mix well. - Create the Cranberry Topping
In a small saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, and orange juice or water. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries soften and the sauce thickens (about 10-15 minutes). Once done, remove from heat and let it cool slightly. - Assemble the Dip
After cooling, gently fold the cranberry topping into the cream cheese. Don’t over-mix. Transfer the mixture into a serving bowl and create a shallow well in the middle. This will allow the cranberry topping to sit nicely on top. - Garnish and Serve
Garnish the dip with chopped thyme or rosemary. Serve with crackers, toasted baguette slices, or fresh vegetables.
Notes
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Kcal: 250 kcal | Servings: 8 servings