Description
This lighter Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip combines the sweet tartness of cranberries with creamy low-fat cream cheese and Greek yogurt, enhanced with vanilla and cinnamon. Perfectly chilled and served with crackers, pretzels, or sliced apples, it’s an easy and festive appetizer ideal for holiday gatherings or any party occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Dip Ingredients
- 8 oz low-fat cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries, chopped
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon (optional)
- 1/4 tsp salt
For Serving
- Assorted crackers, pretzels, or sliced apples
- Fresh herbs like mint or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Gather all ingredients. If the cream cheese is not soft enough, microwave it for 10-15 seconds to reach a smooth, spreadable consistency.
- Beat Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese for 1-2 minutes until smooth and creamy.
- Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing thoroughly until completely incorporated and the texture is smooth.
- Incorporate Greek Yogurt: Add the Greek yogurt to the mixture and mix until the ingredients combine evenly, creating a creamy base.
- Prepare Cranberries: Chop fresh cranberries or thaw and drain frozen cranberries before adding to the dip mixture.
- Add Cranberries and Nuts: Fold the chopped cranberries into the cream cheese mixture. If using, chop and add the pecans or walnuts at this stage.
- Season Dip: Add vanilla extract, optional cinnamon, and salt; mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors and ingredients.
- Refrigerate: Transfer the dip into a serving bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld. For best flavor, refrigerate overnight.
- Garnish Before Serving: Stir the dip well, then garnish with additional chopped nuts, whole cranberries, and fresh herbs if desired.
- Serve: Present the dip with a variety of crackers, pretzels, or sliced apples. Enjoy as a festive and flavorful appetizer!
Notes
- For a spicy variation, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or finely chopped jalapeños.
- Try swapping cranberries with chopped apples, pears, or dried fruits for a different flavor profile.
- Using low-fat cream cheese and Greek yogurt makes this dip lighter without sacrificing creaminess and taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: cranberry cream cheese dip, holiday appetizer, low-fat dip, festive dip, creamy cranberry dip
