Looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s sweet, savory, creamy, and crunchy all in one bite? This Warm Cranberry Cheddar Dip is the perfect choice! It combines the rich flavors of sharp white cheddar cheese, tangy cream cheese, and sweet dried cranberries, with a subtle crunch from chopped pecans. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, game day gathering, or casual family dinner, this baked dip will be a guaranteed hit.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ Quick & Easy – Just mix, bake, and serve! No complicated steps.
✔ Perfect for Entertaining – A warm, gooey, irresistible dip that pairs well with crackers, toasted bread, or even fresh veggies.
✔ Sweet & Savory Flavor – The perfect balance of cheesy, nutty, and fruity goodness.
✔ Customizable – Swap out ingredients to match your taste preferences.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this rich, cheesy, and slightly sweet dip, you’ll need:

• 1 cup shredded white cheddar cheese – Provides a sharp, creamy flavor.
• 1 cup softened cream cheese – Creates a smooth, rich texture.
• ½ cup mayonnaise – Enhances the creaminess and adds tang.
• ½ cup dried cranberries – Adds a sweet-tart contrast to the cheese.
• ¼ cup chopped green onions – Gives a mild oniony freshness.
• ¼ cup chopped pecans – Adds a nutty crunch for extra texture.
• ¼ cup honey – Balances the flavors with a touch of natural sweetness.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a small baking dish or oven-safe skillet to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded white cheddar, softened cream cheese, and mayonnaise. Stir until smooth and well blended.

Next, fold in the dried cranberries, chopped green onions, chopped pecans, and honey. Mix everything together until evenly distributed.

Step 3: Transfer to a Baking Dish

Spread the mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to smooth out the top for even baking.

Step 4: Bake Until Golden & Bubbly

Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. The cheese should be fully melted, and the dip should be warm throughout.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

Remove the dip from the oven and let it cool for a couple of minutes. Serve it warm with crackers, toasted baguette slices, pita chips, or fresh vegetables.

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Tips for the Best Cranberry Cheddar Dip

✅ Use High-Quality Cheese – Opt for sharp white cheddar for the best flavor. Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-packaged shredded cheese.

✅ Customize the Nuts – While pecans add a delicious nutty flavor, you can also use walnuts or almonds for a variation.

✅ Make it Spicier – Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.

✅ Enhance the Sweetness – If you love a sweeter dip, drizzle extra honey on top before serving.

✅ Prep Ahead – Assemble the dip in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake. Just pop it in the oven when guests arrive!

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What to Serve with Warm Cranberry Cheddar Dip

This dip is incredibly versatile and pairs well with various dippers:

• Crackers – Buttery, crunchy crackers work great.
• Toasted Baguette Slices – A crispy base to hold the cheesy goodness.
• Pita Chips – Sturdy and perfect for dipping.
• Pretzels – Adds a salty contrast.
• Apple Slices – A fresh, slightly tart option that pairs beautifully.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can mix all the ingredients and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just bake when you’re ready to serve.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until warm.

3. Can I use a different cheese?

Yes! While white cheddar provides a sharp and creamy taste, you can also try:

• Gruyère for a nutty, slightly sweet flavor.
• Gouda for a smooth, buttery taste.
• Brie for a rich, velvety texture.

4. Can I make this dip without nuts?

Of course! Simply omit the pecans if you prefer a nut-free version.

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Final Thoughts

This Warm Cranberry Cheddar Dip is the ultimate appetizer for any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, potluck, or casual get-together, this creamy, cheesy, and slightly sweet dip will keep everyone coming back for more.

With its quick preparation, irresistible flavors, and easy customization, this dip deserves a spot on your appetizer menu. Give it a try and impress your guests with the perfect blend of creamy, sweet, and savory flavors!

Prep Time: 10 min | Cook Time: 20-25 min | Total Time: 30-35 min | Serves: 6-8