This Cranberry Walnut Cream Cheese Dip is a fun and tasty treat! It’s creamy, tangy, and topped with crunchy walnuts and sweet cranberries. Perfect for spreading on crackers or bagels!
Every time I make this dip, my friends can’t get enough! It’s a crowd-pleaser at parties, and I love how easy it is to put together—just mix, chill, and serve. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: This is the base of the dip, giving it creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try Neufchâtel cheese. Vegan cream cheese also works well for a dairy-free version.
Dried Cranberries: They add sweetness and chewiness. If cranberries aren’t available, chopped cherries or raisins make great substitutes. Be mindful of cherry’s flavor being more pronounced.
Walnuts: They provide a nice crunch. Pecans or sliced almonds can also be used. For nut allergies, sunflower seeds offer a similar texture without the allergens.
Honey or Maple Syrup: This adds sweetness. If you prefer a sugar-free option, try agave syrup or a sugar substitute like stevia. Adjust to taste as needed.
Green Onions: They add a fresh, oniony zing. Chives or finely diced red onion can be used when green onions are not available.
How Can I Make Sure My Dip is Smooth and Creamy?
A smooth and creamy dip is easy to achieve! Here are some tips:
- Start with softened cream cheese for easier mixing. Leave it out for about 30 minutes before use or gently microwave it for 10-15 seconds.
- Mix the cream cheese and honey until fully combined and smooth before adding other ingredients. This ensures an even texture.
- When folding in the cranberries, walnuts, and green onions, do it gently to keep the mixture light.
Lastly, chilling the dip allows it to firm up slightly and the flavors to blend beautifully. Enjoy your dip with your favorite crackers or bread!
Cranberry Walnut Cream Cheese Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz (1 package) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup dried cranberries, chopped (reserve a few whole for garnish)
- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
- 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- Optional: 1 tsp fresh rosemary or thyme, finely chopped (plus a sprig for garnish)
- Crackers or sliced baguette, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dip takes about 10 minutes to prepare and should be chilled for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors come together. So, overall, you’ll be ready to enjoy it in about 40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cream Cheese Base:
In a medium bowl, take your softened cream cheese and add the honey (or maple syrup). Use a hand mixer or a spatula to mix them together until it’s nice and smooth. This will be the creamy foundation of your dip!
2. Mix in the Extras:
Now, gently fold in the chopped dried cranberries, chopped walnuts, and finely chopped green onions. Make sure everything is evenly mixed, so you get those delicious flavors in every bite!
3. Spice it Up:
Next, sprinkle in the black pepper and the optional chopped rosemary or thyme if you’re using it. Stir everything together one last time to make sure those herbs blend in.
4. Transfer and Garnish:
Take your mixture and transfer it to a serving bowl. For a lovely presentation, garnish the top with a few whole cranberries, some pieces of walnut, and a sprig of fresh herb on top.
5. Serve it Up!
Surround the dip with crackers or sliced baguette on a serving platter. This makes it easy for everyone to dig in! To get the best flavor, chill the dip for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Enjoy your creamy, tangy, and crunchy Cranberry Walnut Cream Cheese Dip! It’s sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Fresh Cranberries Instead of Dried?
Fresh cranberries can be very tart and wouldn’t provide the same sweetness as dried cranberries. If you want to use fresh cranberries, consider cooking them down with a bit of sugar to create a sweet cranberry compote before adding it to the dip.
How Long Does This Dip Last in the Fridge?
The dip can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again, as it might firm up a bit after chilling.
Can I Make This Dip Vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute the cream cheese with a plant-based cream cheese alternative and use maple syrup instead of honey. It will still be delicious and creamy!
What Can I Serve with This Dip Besides Crackers?
In addition to crackers and sliced baguette, you can serve the dip with fresh veggies like carrot sticks, cucumber slices, or bell pepper strips. It also pairs wonderfully with pretzels!
