Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup extra-sharp white cheddar cheese, grated
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, grated
- ⅛ to ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon orange zest (optional)
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped or ½ teaspoon dried
Fruit Ingredients
- ½ cup fresh cranberries (may substitute with frozen, but do not thaw)
- ⅓ cup cranberry sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Spray a small baking dish with nonstick cooking spray and preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect baking temperature.
- Mix the Cheese Base: In a medium-large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with ¾ of the grated cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Add the nutmeg, orange zest (if using), and rosemary. Stir well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated, creating a flavorful and creamy base.
- Fold in Cranberries: Gently fold in the fresh cranberries to the cheese mixture, being careful not to crush them, to maintain bursts of tart flavor throughout the dip.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Spoon the cranberry and cheese mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish, smoothing the surface for even baking.
- Add Cranberry Sauce Swirls: Add dollops of the cranberry sauce on top of the mixture. Using a spoon or knife, swirl the sauce gently into the top layer to create a marbled effect and enhance the sweet-tart contrast.
- Top with Remaining Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining grated cheddar and mozzarella evenly over the top. This creates a golden, bubbly crust once baked.
- Bake the Dip: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the dip is bubbly in the center and the edges turn golden brown. If the top browns too quickly, cover loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve immediately while hot and gooey. Pair with crostini, Triscuits, seeded crackers, or pita chips for dipping.
Notes
- Use fresh cranberries for the best texture; if using frozen, do not thaw to avoid excess moisture.
- Adjust the nutmeg amount according to your preference for a subtle warm spice.
- Orange zest adds a nice citrus brightness but can be omitted if unavailable.
- If you prefer a smoother dip, double the mozzarella cheese for extra gooeyness instead of cheddar.
- Cover with foil during baking if the top starts to brown too quickly.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the dip warm and melty.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
