Print

Sweet and Tangy Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip with Pecans

Close-up of a rich cranberry cream cheese dip topped with whole pecans and orange zest.
Print Recipe
Save Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Create an elegant, crowd-pleasing appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings. This dip features a smooth cream cheese base topped with a bright, homemade cranberry sauce and finished with crunchy pecans and fresh orange zest.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 (12 ounce) bag fresh or frozen cranberries
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 teaspoon orange zest
  • 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans, toasted
  • 1 tablespoon chopped green onion, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Make the cranberry topping: Combine cranberries, sugar, and water in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens.
  2. Remove the sauce from the heat. Stir in the orange zest and orange juice. Let the cranberry sauce cool completely, about 30 minutes.
  3. Prepare the cream cheese base: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and salt together until the mixture is smooth and light.
  4. Assemble the dip: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly onto a serving plate or shallow bowl.
  5. Spoon the cooled cranberry topping over the cream cheese layer. Spread gently to cover the surface.
  6. Sprinkle the toasted pecans evenly over the cranberry topping.
  7. Garnish with chopped green onion just before serving.
  8. Chill the dip for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to set. Serve cold with crackers or crostini.

Notes

  • For a quick version, substitute the homemade cranberry sauce with one 12-ounce can of whole-berry cranberry sauce.
  • To toast pecans, spread them on a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring often until fragrant.
  • If you prefer a warm appetizer, you can bake this dip. Combine cream cheese, sour cream, and salt in an oven-safe dish. Top with cranberry sauce and pecans. Bake at 350 degrees F for 15-20 minutes until warm.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.unfoldrecipes.com/cranberry-cream-cheese-dip-recipe-easy-holiday/