Holiday Cranberry Orange Cream Cheese Dip

Name: Holiday Cranberry Orange Cream Cheese Dip
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1 tsp vanilla extract; Zest of 1 orange; 1/4 cup orange juice; 1 cup cranberry sauce; 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional); Fresh orange segments for garnish

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

This festive Holiday Cranberry Orange Cream Cheese Dip is the perfect blend of sweet and tangy flavors, making it an ideal appetizer for your holiday gatherings.

Created by

Harper Collins

Last updated on 2025-11-26T07:54:50.967Z

Creamy, rich, and topped with vibrant cranberry sauce, this dip is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Serve it with graham crackers, fresh fruit, or your favorite pastries for a delightful treat that embodies the spirit of the season.

Elevate your holiday snacking with this easy-to-make recipe that will keep everyone coming back for more!

Deliciously Tangy and Sweet

This Holiday Cranberry Orange Cream Cheese Dip is a delightful combination of tangy cranberry and sweet orange flavors, making it a standout appetizer for any holiday gathering. The balance between the creamy texture of the dip and the brightness of the toppings creates a mouthwatering experience that guests will love. Whether you serve it during a festive party or as a cozy treat at home, this dip will undoubtedly leave everyone coming back for more.

The incorporation of fresh orange zest and juice adds a refreshing touch to the cream cheese base, enhancing the overall flavor profile. The hint of vanilla ties everything together, providing a lovely backdrop to the main ingredients. It's not just a dip; it's an extraordinary blend that celebrates the flavors of the holiday season!

Easy to Prepare

One of the best features of this dip is how simple it is to prepare. With just a few ingredients and minimal steps, you can whip up this festive treat in no time. Whether you're a novice in the kitchen or an experienced cook, this recipe is designed to be straightforward and hassle-free. Just mix, spread, and serve, and you're ready to impress your guests with a delicious appetizer.

Plus, it can be made ahead of time, so you can enjoy more time with friends and family during your gathering. Keep it refrigerated until you're ready to serve, and it will taste just as fresh and creamy as if you made it on the spot.

Versatile Serving Options

This dip is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a myriad of serving options. Traditionally served with graham crackers, it also tastes fantastic with fresh fruit like apple slices or strawberries. For a more indulgent twist, serve it alongside pastries or use it as a spread for croissants. The options are endless, allowing you to customize your dish for different occasions and preferences.

You can also get creative with the toppings. While cranberry sauce and walnuts are a classic choice, consider adding pomegranate seeds or a drizzle of honey for a unique twist. This adaptability makes it a perfect fit for holiday gatherings, parties, or even cozy nights in!

Ingredients

For the Dip

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1/2 cup sour cream
1 tsp vanilla extract
Zest of 1 orange
1/4 cup orange juice

For the Topping

1 cup cranberry sauce
1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Fresh orange segments for garnish

Mix all the ingredients together for a delightful dip.

Instructions

Prepare the Dip

In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, sour cream, vanilla extract, orange zest, and orange juice. Beat until smooth and creamy.

Add Topping

Spread the cranberry sauce over the dip and sprinkle walnuts on top if using. Garnish with fresh orange segments.

Serve

Serve immediately with graham crackers, fresh fruit, or pastries.

Enjoy your festive dip!

Storage Tips

If you have any leftovers after your gathering, no worries! This dip stores well in the refrigerator. Simply transfer it to an airtight container and keep it chilled. It’s best enjoyed within three days, as this ensures the flavors remain fresh and the texture creamy.

Be sure to keep the dip covered to prevent it from absorbing any odors from the fridge. Although it may lose a bit of texture after a couple of days, stirring it slightly before serving can help bring back its creamy consistency.

Perfect for Any Occasion

While this Holiday Cranberry Orange Cream Cheese Dip is perfect for festive gatherings, it’s suitable for a wide range of occasions. From office parties to family reunions or even casual game nights, its appeal transcends seasons. The creamy dip is a hit with both adults and children, making it a crowd-pleaser no matter where you serve it.

Consider bringing this dish to potluck events or sharing it with neighbors during the holidays. Its beautiful presentation topped with cranberry sauce and orange segments will not only enhance the table décor but will also encourage others to try their hand at making it!

Healthier Alternatives

If you're looking for a lighter version of this dip, consider using Greek yogurt in place of sour cream. It will maintain the creamy texture while adding a boost of protein and decreasing the overall fat content. You can also opt for low-fat cream cheese without sacrificing creaminess, making it a healthier option for your guests.

For those watching their sugar intake, experimenting with a sugar substitute for the powdered sugar can also work well. Just be sure to adjust the quantity to taste, as some sugar alternatives can be sweeter than traditional sugar. This way, you can enjoy your holiday treat guilt-free!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use homemade cranberry sauce?

Absolutely! Homemade cranberry sauce adds a personal touch.

→ How long does the dip last?

The dip can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.