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Easy Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip with Candied Pecans

A close-up of a serving of cranberry cream cheese dip topped with cranberry sauce and pecans.

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Make this simple, sweet, and tart cranberry cream cheese dip for your next holiday gathering. It features a creamy base topped with a bright cranberry sauce and crunchy pecans for a festive appetizer.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 4 ounces sour cream
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon orange zest
  • 1 cup whole berry cranberry sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • Crackers or baguette slices, for serving

Instructions

  1. Combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, granulated sugar, and orange zest in a medium bowl. Beat with an electric mixer until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
  2. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly onto a serving plate or shallow dish.
  3. Prepare the topping: In a small skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the chopped pecans and brown sugar. Stir constantly until the sugar dissolves and the pecans are lightly coated and toasted, about 3 to 4 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  4. Gently spoon the cranberry sauce over the cream cheese layer, spreading it to cover the surface.
  5. Sprinkle the candied pecans evenly over the cranberry topping.
  6. Chill the dip for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to set.
  7. Serve cold with your choice of crackers or toasted bread slices.

Notes

  • For a slightly spicy kick, add 1/2 teaspoon of finely minced jalapeño to the cranberry sauce layer.
  • If you prefer a warm dip, bake the cream cheese base (without the topping) at 350°F for 15 minutes, then top and serve warm.
  • You can substitute walnuts for pecans if desired.

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