Holiday Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip layers smooth cream cheese with a bright, fresh cranberry salsa for a dip that always stands out. Serve with pretzel crisps, crackers, or sturdy pita chips.
Easy Holiday Party Dip
I like this recipe because it’s such an easy appetizer and a total crowd pleaser, especially during the holiday season. I served this dip on New Year’s Eve, and it was a big hit, earning rave reviews from our guests. None was left at midnight!
The cranberry topping has a crisp texture and a tart-sweet balance that works well with the smooth cream cheese layer underneath. Making the salsa ahead gives it time to settle and keeps the flavors sharp without losing freshness.
We keep this dip chilled until serving, so the layers stay distinct and the cream cheese stays firm enough to hold the topping. It’s a simple holiday appetizer that fits easily into a make-ahead routine and always stands out on a snack board.
Prep Ahead for the Best Texture
- Making this dip is super simple, but it is a 2-day process. This recipe works best when the cranberry topping is made the day before serving. As it chills overnight, the cranberries soften slightly and release their excess juice. Drain the liquid the next day, then layer the topping over the whipped cream cheese before serving. The flavors stay bright, the texture stays crisp, and the layers hold together beautifully.
Ingredients for Holiday Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip
Here’s what you’ll need to make it. Exact amounts are listed in the recipe card below.
- Fresh Cranberries – Fresh is best, but thawed frozen cranberries will work too.
- Scallions – Adds a subtle bite to the salsa.
- Jalapeno Pepper – Remove the seeds to get the mild flavor of the jalapeno without the heat. If you prefer a hint of heat, leave them in.
- Granulated Sugar - For mild sweetness and contrast to the naturally tart cranberries.
- Lemon Juice – A little acidity to balance the sweetness.
- Kosher Salt – Just a touch to mellow the flavors.
- Cream Cheese – Let the cream cheese come to room temperature so it spreads easily when you layer the dip.
How to Make Holiday Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip
STEP ONE: Make the Cranberry Salsa. In a medium bowl, combine the chopped cranberries, scallions, and jalapeno. Stir in the sugar, lemon juice, and salt.
STEP TWO: Refrigerate Overnight. Cover and refrigerate overnight or at least 6-8 hours. Remove from the fridge and pour into a fine mesh strainer. Press the cranberry mixture into the strainer to drain the excess liquid.
STEP THREE: Whip the Cream Cheese. In a medium bowl, use a hand mixer and beat the softened cream cheese for 1 minute, until smooth.
STEP FOUR: Spread the Cream Cheese Layer. Transfer the cream cheese to a 6-8-inch serving dish and spread it into an even layer.
STEP FIVE: Top with Cranberry Salsa. Spread cranberry mixture over the top of the cream cheese. Serve cool or at room temperature.
Make it Vegan 🌱
- For a plant-based dip, use dairy-free cream cheese. The cranberry topping is naturally vegan.
Recipe FAQs
Can I make this dip ahead?
Yes! Make the cranberry topping the day before, drain it the next day, and assemble just before serving.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. Use a larger serving dish and keep the layers the same thickness.
Can I use frozen cranberries?
Yes. Thaw completely and dry well before chopping.
More Cranberry Recipes You’ll Love!
- Cranberry Streusel Bars
- Cranberry Thumbprint Cookies
- Cranberry Walnut Chickpea Sandwiches
- Cranberry Banana Bread
- Cranberry Pie
Save this recipe to Pinterest! ⤵️ 📌
Tried this recipe? Leave a ⭐ Star Rating ⭐️ and share your thoughts in the comments below. Thanks for being part of our home cooking community!
Follow This Wife Cooks on Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest | YouTube
Holiday Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip Recipe
Ingredients
- 12 ounces fresh cranberries finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons scallions finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons jalapeno pepper stem and seeds removed, finely chopped
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/8 teaspoon kosher salt
- 16 ounces cream cheese softened
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine the chopped cranberries, scallions, and jalapeno. Stir in the sugar, lemon juice, and salt.
- Cover and refrigerate overnight or at least 6-8 hours. Remove from the fridge and pour into a fine mesh strainer. Press the cranberry mixture into the strainer to drain the excess liquid.
- In a medium bowl, use a hand mixer and beat the softened cream cheese for 1 minute, until smooth.
- Transfer the cream cheese to a 6-8-inch serving dish and spread it into an even layer.
- Spread cranberry mixture over the top of the cream cheese. Serve cool or at room temperature.
Nutrition
This post was updated November 14, 2025.
Leave a Reply