CHRISTMAS PARTY CRANBERRY DIP RECIPE - (4.3/5)

Christmas Party Cranberry Dip Recipe - (4.3/5) image

Provided by msippigrl

Number Of Ingredients 6

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1 (12-ounce) bag fresh cranberries (Ocean Spray)
1 cup water
1 cup sugar
Pinch of salt
1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese (reduced fat ok)
Honey Graham Crackers or Buttery crackers (such as Club or Waverly)

Steps:

CRANBERRY SAUCE: Sort through berries and remove any stems and blemished berries (brown or mushy ones). Rinse with water and drain well in a colander. Meanwhile, in 3-quart saucepan over medium/medium heat, bring water, sugar, and salt to a boil; then boil for 5 minutes, whisking occasionally. Stir in the cranberries and bring back to a boil; continue boiling 5-6 minutes longer, stirring occasionally, until cranberries "pop". It's important that they "pop" to release the natural pectin which thickens the sauce. TIP: For a different flavor twist, after the sauce has finished cooking, stir in 1 tablespoon grated orange zest, 1 finely minced fresh jalapeno pepper (remove seeds first), or 2 to 3 tablespoons peach or pineapple preserves. (Shown with a little peach preserves). Pour sauce into a serving dish and cool to room temperature or refrigerate until chilled. Spread the cream cheese in the bottom of a pie plate. Top with cooled cranberry sauce. Serve with crackers. Cover leftovers and store in the refrigerator.