This creamy dip combines tangy cranberries and crunchy walnuts for a tasty treat. Perfect as a spread on crackers or a dip for fresh fruit!
It’s a hit at parties! I can’t resist double-dipping—who could say no to that smooth, creamy goodness? Just spread it out and watch it disappear!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: The star of this dip! Make sure to use full-fat cream cheese for the best texture and flavor. If you want a lighter version, you can use low-fat cream cheese or even Greek yogurt as a substitute, though the flavor will vary a bit.
Dried Cranberries: These add a beautiful sweetness and tartness. If cranberries aren’t available, you can use other dried fruits like raisins or chopped apricots. Just remember to chop them up if they’re larger!
Walnuts: They bring a nice crunch. If you have nut allergies or are looking for a different flavor, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds are great alternatives. Just toast them lightly for extra flavor!
Green Onions: These add a fresh, mild onion flavor. If you don’t have green onions, regular onions will work, but use them sparingly as they’re more potent. Chives are also a lovely alternative.
Honey or Maple Syrup: This is optional but adds a touch of sweetness. You can skip it or use agave syrup or a sugar substitute if you’re watching sugar intake.
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Consistency for Your Dip?
To ensure your dip has the ideal creaminess, start with room temperature cream cheese. If it’s too cold, it won’t blend smoothly. Here’s how you can do it right:
- Let the cream cheese sit out for about 30 minutes before mixing.
- Mix the cream cheese with honey or maple syrup until smooth in a medium bowl.
- Carefully fold in each ingredient, being gentle to keep some texture from the nuts and cranberries.
For extra creaminess, you might consider adding a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, especially if you prefer a tangy twist!
How to Make Cranberry Walnut Cream Cheese Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dip:
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1/3 cup walnuts, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 tsp dried thyme)
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional, for slight sweetness)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Serving:
- Crackers or sliced baguette
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dip takes about 10 minutes to prepare. You can serve it right away or let it chill in the fridge for a bit for even better flavor. Enjoy it at room temperature or cold for the best experience!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base:
Start by taking your softened cream cheese and placing it in a medium bowl. If you’re using honey or maple syrup, add it to the bowl as well. With a mixer or a sturdy spoon, mix everything together until it’s nice and smooth and creamy. It should be easy to stir without any lumps!
2. Fold in the Goodies:
Next, it’s time to add in the fun ingredients! Gently fold in the chopped dried cranberries, walnuts, green onions, red bell pepper, and thyme leaves. Be careful not to overmix; you want to keep a bit of texture from the add-ins for a delightful crunch.
3. Season to Taste:
Now, sprinkle in some salt and freshly ground black pepper. Stir everything together until all the flavors are well combined. Give it a taste! Adjust the seasoning if needed—maybe a little more salt or a splash of sweetness if you like.
4. Serve it Up:
Transfer the creamy dip to a pretty serving bowl. For a lovely touch, garnish the top with extra dried cranberries and walnut pieces. This not only looks great but makes it extra tasty, too!
5. Enjoy!
Serve your dip chilled or at room temperature with crispy crackers or slices of baguette for dipping. It’s perfect for parties or just a fun snack at home! If you have leftovers, store the dip covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I Use Low-Fat Cream Cheese?
Yes, you can substitute with low-fat cream cheese for a lighter dip. Just keep in mind that it might alter the richness and texture slightly, but it will still be delicious!
What Can I Substitute for Walnuts?
If you have nut allergies or simply prefer a different flavor, consider using sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds. They provide a similar crunch without the nuts!
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again, as it might firm up a little.
Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! This dip can be prepared a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 15-30 minutes before serving to soften it up a bit.
