Description
This lighter Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip is a festive and delicious holiday appetizer that perfectly balances sweet and tangy flavors. Made with low-fat cream cheese, powdered sugar, fresh cranberries, and Greek yogurt, it’s easy to prepare and ideal for serving with crackers, pretzels, or sliced apples. Chill the dip to meld the flavors and enjoy a creamy, refreshing treat perfect for any gathering or party.
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 your ingredients. If the low-fat cream cheese is not softened, microwave it for 10-15 seconds to soften slightly, making it easier to beat smooth.
- Beat Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese for 1-2 minutes until it becomes smooth and creamy without lumps.
- Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar to the cream cheese, mixing continuously until fully incorporated and smooth.
- Mix in Greek Yogurt: Add the Greek yogurt to the mixture and stir until well combined, creating a creamy base for the dip.
- Incorporate Cranberries: Chop fresh cranberries finely or thaw and drain frozen cranberries thoroughly, then fold them into the cream cheese mixture.
- Add Nuts: If using, chop pecans or walnuts and add them into the mixture to add texture and flavor.
- Season the Dip: Add vanilla extract, optional cinnamon, and salt into the bowl. Mix thoroughly so that cranberries and nuts are evenly distributed.
- Chill the Dip: Transfer the dip to a serving bowl. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to blend; chilling overnight enhances taste further.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, stir the dip gently. Garnish with extra chopped nuts, whole cranberries, and fresh herbs like mint or parsley, if desired.
- Enjoy: Serve the cranberry cream cheese dip with assorted crackers, pretzels, or sliced apples as a delightful festive appetizer.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or finely chopped jalapeños into the dip.
- Swap cranberries with chopped apples, pears, or dried fruits to customize the flavor profile.
- Using low-fat cream cheese and Greek yogurt makes this dip lighter and healthier without compromising taste.
