This Pineapple Cranberry Cream Cheese Dessert Dip delivers the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and creamy holiday flavor. With juicy pineapple, chewy cranberries, and smooth cream cheese, this dreamy dip comes together in minutes and is ideal for parties, potlucks, or effortless seasonal snacking. Serve it with graham crackers or fresh fruit for a simple yet irresistible treat everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
- Graham crackers or fresh fruit, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Base:
In a medium mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. - Mix in the Flavors:
Add the drained crushed pineapple, dried cranberries, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until fully combined. - Add Crunch (Optional):
Fold in the chopped pecans for added texture and nutty flavor. - Chill:
Transfer the dip to a serving bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld and thicken. - Serve:
Enjoy chilled with graham crackers, apple slices, strawberries, or your favorite dipping fruit.
Variation
- Coconut Holiday Blend: Stir in 2–3 tablespoons shredded coconut for extra tropical sweetness.
- Zesty Citrus Twist: Add 1 teaspoon orange zest for a bright, refreshing flavor that pairs beautifully with the cranberries.
- Chocolate Chip Surprise: Fold in mini white chocolate chips for a fun dessert-style treat.
Cooking Notes
- Drain Pineapple Thoroughly: Any excess liquid can thin the dip, so pressing the pineapple lightly with paper towels helps maintain the creamy texture.
- Soft Cream Cheese Matters: Starting with room-temperature cream cheese ensures a smooth, lump-free dip.
- Adjust Sweetness: Add more powdered sugar if you prefer a sweeter dessert dip; reduce it for a tangier flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Dessert Board Favorite: Serve alongside cookies, fruit, and pretzels on a holiday dessert charcuterie board.
- Brunch Table Addition: Pair with muffins, pastries, and fresh fruit for an easy festive brunch spread.
- Giftable Treat: Package the dip in a mason jar with a ribbon and gift it with a sleeve of graham crackers.
Tips
- Make Ahead: This dip tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge, making it perfect for prepping ahead of parties.
- Texture Control: Mix less for chunkier texture or blend more thoroughly for a smoother finish.
- Nut-Free Option: Simply omit the pecans no other adjustments needed.
Prep Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes (including chilling)
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Protein: ~3 g
- Sodium: ~85 mg
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes just make sure it’s finely crushed and well drained to avoid adding extra liquid. - How long does this dip last?
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. - Can I freeze this dip?
Freezing is not recommended, as cream cheese can become grainy once thawed. - What can I serve with this besides graham crackers?
Apples, strawberries, pretzels, vanilla cookies, or even waffle cone pieces work wonderfully.
Conclusion
This Pineapple Cranberry Cream Cheese Dessert Dip is a quick, festive, and crowd-pleasing holiday treat that brightens any table. With its creamy texture and cheerful flavors, it’s perfect for gatherings big and small simple, delightful, and absolutely delicious.
Print
Pineapple Cranberry Cream Cheese Dessert Dip
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Pineapple Cranberry Cream Cheese Dessert Dip delivers the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and creamy holiday flavor. With juicy pineapple, chewy cranberries, and smooth cream cheese, this dreamy dip comes together in minutes and is ideal for parties, potlucks, or effortless seasonal snacking. Serve it with graham crackers or fresh fruit for a simple yet irresistible treat everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
- Graham crackers or fresh fruit, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Base:
In a medium mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. - Mix in the Flavors:
Add the drained crushed pineapple, dried cranberries, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until fully combined. - Add Crunch (Optional):
Fold in the chopped pecans for added texture and nutty flavor. - Chill:
Transfer the dip to a serving bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld and thicken. - Serve:
Enjoy chilled with graham crackers, apple slices, strawberries, or your favorite dipping fruit.
Notes
- Drain Pineapple Thoroughly: Any excess liquid can thin the dip, so pressing the pineapple lightly with paper towels helps maintain the creamy texture.
- Soft Cream Cheese Matters: Starting with room-temperature cream cheese ensures a smooth, lump-free dip.
- Adjust Sweetness: Add more powdered sugar if you prefer a sweeter dessert dip; reduce it for a tangier flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Appetizer
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ~1/6 of dip
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: ~18 g
- Sodium: ~85 mg
- Fat: ~10 g
- Saturated Fat: ~5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: ~4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: ~26 g
- Fiber: ~1 g
- Protein: ~3 g
- Cholesterol: ~25 mg
Keywords: pineapple cranberry dip, holiday dessert dip, cream cheese fruit dip, Christmas appetizer, festive dip