How to Make Baked Cream Cheese Cranberry Dip for Your Next Party

Looking for a festive, flavorful, and guilt-free appetizer to impress your guests? This Baked Cream Cheese Cranberry Dip is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, balancing the tangy sweetness of cranberries with creamy, cheesy goodness. Perfect for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or any special occasion, this dip is easy to prepare and fits seamlessly into your Weight Watchers plan. With just a few simple ingredients and a touch of creativity, you’ll have a warm, indulgent dip that everyone will rave about.

Ingredients

• 8 oz reduced-fat cream cheese (softened)
• 1/2 cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt
• 1/3 cup reduced-fat shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/3 cup reduced-fat shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup fresh or canned whole cranberry sauce (unsweetened or low-sugar)
• 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Cooking spray

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Lightly spray a small baking dish or pie pan with cooking spray.

Mix the Creamy Base

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, Greek yogurt, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
2. Fold in the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses, reserving a small amount of each for topping.

Assemble the Dip

1. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
2. Top with the cranberry sauce, spreading it gently over the creamy layer.
3. Sprinkle the reserved shredded cheeses over the cranberry layer.
4. If using, add the chopped pecans for an extra crunch and nutty flavor.
5. Finish by sprinkling the green onions on top.

Bake to Perfection

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is bubbling around the edges and the cheese is melted and golden.
2. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This dip pairs perfectly with:

• Vegetable sticks like celery, carrot, and cucumber slices.
• Low-point crackers or whole-grain pita chips.
• Apple slices for a sweet and savory combination.

Nutritional Information

(Per Serving, ~2 tablespoons)

• Calories: ~110
• Protein: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fat: 7g
• Fiber: 1g
• WW Points: ~3 (varies based on the exact ingredients used).

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Holiday Ready: The cranberry topping adds a festive touch, making this dip perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any winter gathering.
2. Rich Yet Light: By using reduced-fat cheeses and Greek yogurt, you get all the creamy indulgence with fewer calories and points.
3. Customizable: Swap out the cranberry sauce for your favorite fruit preserves, such as apricot or raspberry, to keep the recipe fresh and exciting.
4. Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and bake time, this dip is a go-to for last-minute hosting or potluck contributions.

Tips for Success

• Softened Cream Cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature to ensure a smooth and creamy mixture.
• Homemade Cranberry Sauce: For a fresher flavor, use homemade cranberry sauce made with fresh cranberries and a touch of sweetener.
• Make It Ahead: Assemble the dip a few hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake as directed.
• Extra Tang: Add a splash of orange juice to the cranberry sauce for a citrusy twist.

This Baked Cream Cheese Cranberry Dip is the perfect blend of sweet, savory, and creamy. It’s an easy-to-make appetizer that’s low in points yet rich in flavor, making it an excellent choice for holiday parties or cozy nights at home. With its vibrant colors and irresistible taste, this dish is sure to become a favorite among your family and friends.