White Cheddar Cranberry Dip

A bowl of White Cheddar Cranberry Dip instantly brings cozy, seasonal charm to any table. This creamy, sweet-savory spread blends tangy cream cheese with sharp white cheddar, creating a smooth base that pairs beautifully with bright pops of dried cranberry. Because the ingredients come together so effortlessly, it’s the perfect last-minute appetizer that still feels polished and festive. Even better, it’s a dish everyone recognizes but tastes completely unexpected thanks to the fresh herbs and gentle touch of honey.

Historically, pairings of cheese and fruit date back centuries, appearing on European farm tables long before modern appetizers existed. Today, that classic combination still shines — especially when cold dips like this offer a refreshing break from heavier holiday dishes.

This recipe delivers balance, texture, and flavor in every bite. It spreads easily on crackers, layers beautifully on baguette slices, and works wonderfully alongside charcuterie. With simple ingredients and just a few minutes of prep, this dip becomes a go-to favorite that guests always request. Easy, delicious, and visually inviting, it elevates any gathering while keeping your hosting stress-free.

Recipe Yield: 6 servings

INGREDIENTS

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded white cheddar cheese
1/3 cup dried cranberries, finely chopped
1/4 cup sour cream
2 tbsp mayonnaise
1 tbsp honey
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp finely chopped chives
1 tbsp finely chopped parsley (plus more for garnish)

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Mix the base:
In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise until smooth and fluffy.

2. Add flavor:
Stir in white cheddar cheese, dried cranberries, honey, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until evenly distributed.

3. Fold in herbs:
Gently fold in the chives and parsley, mixing just until combined for a fresh, bright finish.

4. Chill and serve:
Transfer the dip to a serving bowl, garnish with extra parsley, and chill 30 minutes before serving. Enjoy with crackers, sliced baguette, or crisp veggies.

Helpful Tips to Perfect This Recipe

• Balance Sweet + Savory:
  Because dried cranberries vary in sweetness, taste the dip before serving and adjust honey slightly. This ensures the flavor stays bright, balanced, and crave-worthy.
• Use Freshly Shredded Cheese:
  Fresh white cheddar melts smoother and blends better than pre-shredded options, which often contain starches that dull the flavor and texture.
• Chill for Better Texture:
  Although you can serve immediately, chilling for at least 30 minutes allows the cranberries to soften slightly and the flavors to blend beautifully.