Tangy fresh cranberries and a combination of rich cream cheese and Greek yogurt come together for a simple but delicious appetizer dip for a holiday gathering. The chopped cranberries can be prepared up to 2 days in advance and the recipe is easily doubled for those epic gatherings!
Prep Time: 20 minutes Chill Time: Minimum 1 hour Total Time: 1 hour, 20 mins Servings: 10 Calories: approx. 77 kcal
Ingredients:
- 6 ounces (¾ cup) fresh cranberries, rinsed, chopped
- 3 - 4 tablespoons granulated sugar, to taste
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 4 ounces plain Greek yogurt
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 - 3 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar, to taste
Fruits for dipping:
Strawberries, Green grapes, Blueberries, Bananas, Pineapple wedges
Note: This dip is also delicious spread on crackers (and we know of at least one person who likes it with tortilla chips.)
Instructions:
- Using your food processor, pulse the fresh cranberries until they are coarsely chopped.
- Transfer the cranberries into a bowl and add the sugar. Stir well, adding more sugar if needed. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least one hour, or overnight.
- Add the cream cheese, yogurt, and vanilla in a medium bowl. Using a microplane zester, zest the lemon peel into the mixture. Use a hand-held mixer to mix the ingredients. You can whisk it by hand.
- Add the cranberries and any juice and stir well. Taste the dip for sweetness. If desired you can add confectioner’s sugar. (We added 2 tablespoons.)
- You can chill the dip until your guests arrive, or serve it immediately with your favorite fruits.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
The combination of brightly colored fresh cranberries, tart and sweet flavors, and a creamy texture make for a mouth-watering holiday dip that will delight you and your guests.
Photos and recipes: Carrie of Pantry To Table
