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Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip with a Golden Puff Pastry Crust Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.2 from 87 reviews
  • Author: Deborah
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip with a Golden Crust is a delightful appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings or any party. Cream cheese and sour cream create a smooth, tangy base sweetened with powdered sugar and vanilla, topped with vibrant whole berry cranberry sauce swirled in for bursts of flavor. A flaky puff pastry crust baked to golden perfection adds a beautiful presentation and delicious texture. Serve warm with crackers, bread, or fresh vegetables for a crowd-pleasing treat.


Ingredients

Scale

Cream Cheese Mixture

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/3 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Topping

  • 1 cup whole berry cranberry sauce
  • 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Crust and Garnish

  • 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • Crackers, bread, or veggies for serving


Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), ensuring it reaches the right temperature before baking. Lightly grease a small baking dish or an oven-safe skillet to prevent sticking.
  2. Mix the cream cheese base: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix well until the mixture is smooth and creamy, free of lumps.
  3. Prepare the dip base: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly into the greased baking dish or skillet, creating a smooth and level surface.
  4. Add the cranberry sauce: Spoon the whole berry cranberry sauce over the cream cheese layer. Using a knife or spatula, gently swirl the cranberry sauce into the cream cheese mixture to create a marbled effect. Sprinkle with chopped walnuts or pecans if using, to add a crunchy texture.
  5. Apply the puff pastry: Lay the thawed puff pastry sheet over the top of the dip, trimming any excess pastry around the edges. Press the edges lightly against the sides of the dish to seal the pastry over the filling.
  6. Brush with egg wash: Using a pastry brush, apply the beaten egg over the top surface of the puff pastry. This will give the crust a shiny, golden-brown finish when baked.
  7. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the puff pastry is puffed, golden brown, and flaky.
  8. Cool and serve: Remove from the oven and let the dip cool slightly to set. Serve warm with crackers, bread, or fresh vegetables for dipping.

Notes

  • Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easy mixing and a smooth consistency.
  • Thaw the puff pastry fully before use to prevent tearing or uneven baking.
  • Use whole berry cranberry sauce for a textured, flavorful topping, but you can substitute with jellied cranberry sauce if preferred.
  • Optionally, nuts add a nice crunch, but you can omit them for a nut-free version.
  • Serve the dip warm for the best flavor and texture; leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated gently.