Cranberry Pecan Cream Cheese Dip Recipe
This creamy and festive dip combines tangy cranberries, crunchy pecans, and smooth cream cheese for a perfect appetizer during the holidays or any gathering.
This festive dip combines the tangy sweetness of cranberries with the crunch of toasted pecans, all atop a creamy and slightly tangy base of cream cheese. It’s perfect as an appetizer for holiday gatherings or special occasions.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 6-8
Ingredients:
For the Cranberry Mixture:
1 (12 oz) bag of fresh cranberries (or 3 cups frozen, thawed)
1 cup granulated sugar (stevia or honey)
1 tablespoon orange zest
1 tablespoon orange juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cream Cheese Base:
2 (8 oz) blocks of cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup powdered sugar (maple syrup)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Toppings:
1/2 cup pecans, toasted and roughly chopped
2 green onions, thinly sliced (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Prepare the Cranberry Mixture:
Rinse the cranberries and remove any bad ones. Place them in a food processor and pulse until finely chopped (but not pureed).
In a medium bowl, mix the chopped cranberries with sugar, orange zest, orange juice, and vanilla extract. Stir well and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to let the flavors meld.
Make the Cream Cheese Base:
In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Spread the mixture evenly onto a serving dish or platter.
Assemble the Dip:
Remove the cranberry mixture from the fridge and drain off any excess liquid.
Spoon the cranberry mixture evenly over the cream cheese layer.
Add Toppings:
Sprinkle the toasted pecans over the cranberry mixture. Garnish with green onions, if desired.
Serve:
Serve with crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh veggies for dipping.
Enjoy your delicious Cranberry Pecan Cream Cheese Dip!
Notes:
Prep Time: 10-15 minutes (if using canned cranberry sauce or pre-chopped ingredients).
Serving Suggestions: Serve with crackers, baguette slices, or fresh veggies.
Customization:
Add jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Substitute pecans with walnuts if preferred.
Storage: Best served fresh, but leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Tips
Use full-fat cream cheese for a richer taste or light cream cheese for a healthier alternative.
Toast pecans beforehand for enhanced flavor.
For added sweetness, drizzle honey or maple syrup over the top before serving.
Let the cream cheese soften at room temperature for easy spreading.
Benefits:
Cranberries: Rich in antioxidants and Vitamin C, promoting immune health.
Pecans: Provide healthy fats, fiber, and minerals like zinc and magnesium.
Cream Cheese: Source of calcium and protein, though it should be consumed in moderation.
Nutritional Info (approximate per 2 tbsp serving)
Calories: 120
Protein: 2g
Carbohydrates: 6g
Fat: 10g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 4g