Ingredients
Dip Base
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups sour cream
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Cranberry Topping
- 1/2 cup fresh cranberries
- 3 tablespoons sugar
To Garnish & Serve
- Chopped parsley, for garnish
- Crackers, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the dip.
- Mix the dip base: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, shredded mozzarella, dried cranberries, and salt. Stir until the mixture is smooth and the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Spread mixture in dish: Transfer the cheese mixture into a 9-inch round baking dish, spreading it out evenly to ensure uniform baking.
- Prepare cranberry topping: In a small bowl, toss the fresh cranberries with sugar until coated. This adds sweetness and balances the tartness of the berries.
- Add topping and press: Arrange the sugared fresh cranberries over the top of the cheese mixture. Gently press them into the surface to help them adhere during baking.
- Bake the dip: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, until the dip is hot and bubbly. For a golden top, optionally broil for 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the dip from the oven, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley, and serve warm with crackers for dipping.
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened for easier mixing and a smoother dip.
- Use a shallow baking dish for quicker and even baking.
- Fresh cranberries can be substituted with more dried cranberries if preferred, but fresh offers a nice tart burst.
- Broiling is optional but adds a lovely golden brown top; watch carefully to avoid burning.
- Serve immediately for best taste and texture; leftovers can be refrigerated and gently reheated.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 17 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
