There’s something magical about the first cool breeze of fall that makes you crave warmth from the inside out. That’s when this Hot Cranberry Cream Cheese Bake with Pecans comes out of my oven, bubbling and aromatic, filling the kitchen with holiday spirit. My journey with this recipe started during my time working in a tiny Vermont café tucked away near the foliage trail. Locals would come in just for a bite of this creamy, tart, and nutty delight. It’s now a staple at my family table during fall gatherings, potlucks, or even cozy nights in with a favorite blanket and tea.
This recipe is everything autumn should be warm, welcoming, and just a little indulgent. Whether you’re entertaining guests or just want something that feels like a hug in dessert form, this bake delivers. And the best part? It’s surprisingly easy. With only a handful of ingredients, it creates a stunning flavor profile: creamy tangy cheese, sweet-tart cranberries, and a crunchy, toasted pecan topping. Let’s walk through how to make this seasonal favorite at home.
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Hot Cranberry Cream Cheese Bake with Pecans
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A cozy, bubbling-hot cranberry cream cheese bake with toasted pecans perfect for fall gatherings or holiday parties. Sweet, tart, creamy, and crunchy in every bite.
Ingredients
- 1 block (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole berry cranberry sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- ⅓ cup chopped pecans, toasted
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- Crackers or sliced baguette, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a small baking dish.
- In a bowl, beat cream cheese, sour cream, powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt until smooth and fluffy.
- Spread cream cheese mixture evenly in the baking dish.
- Spoon cranberry sauce on top and swirl lightly for a marbled look.
- Mix chopped pecans with cinnamon and sprinkle over the cranberry layer.
- Bake for 18–22 minutes, until bubbling and golden around the edges.
- Let cool slightly and serve warm with crackers or bread slices.
Notes
Let the cream cheese come to room temperature before mixing for the smoothest texture. Toast pecans in a dry skillet to enhance flavor. Prep ahead up to step 4 and refrigerate until ready to bake. Try variations like swapping nuts or adding streusel topping for added texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients for Hot Cranberry Cream Cheese Bake with Pecans
Before we begin, gather everything you need so you can enjoy a smooth, stress-free cooking process.
What You’ll Need:
- 1 block (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole berry cranberry sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/3 cup chopped pecans, toasted
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- Crackers or sliced baguette, for serving
You’ll also need a small oven-safe baking dish (like a pie plate or mini casserole), mixing bowls, and a spatula.
Step by Step Instructions
1. Preheat & Prepare the Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease your baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Make the Cream Cheese Layer
In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sour cream, powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt until smooth and fluffy. Spread this mixture evenly into the base of your dish. This creamy base sets the tone for every bite.
3. Layer the Cranberries
Spoon the cranberry sauce evenly over the cream cheese mixture. Swirl it lightly with a knife if you want a marbled look.
4. Add the Crunch
In a separate small bowl, mix the chopped pecans with cinnamon. Sprinkle this nutty topping over the cranberry layer. Toasting the pecans before adds an extra depth of flavor you won’t want to skip.
5. Bake to Perfection
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the edges are bubbly and the top is golden. Let it cool slightly before serving.
For another cozy treat, you might also love this Wholesome Banana Bread Baked Oats as part of your brunch table.
Tips for Success
- Room Temperature Cream Cheese: It blends more smoothly and helps avoid lumps.
- Use Real Cranberry Sauce: Whole berry sauce adds texture and bursts of fruit. You can use Apple Cinnamon Bread as an autumnal pairing.
- Toast Your Pecans: A quick toast in a dry pan brings out their nutty aroma.
If you’re making this ahead of time for a party, prep it up to step 4 and refrigerate it. Just bake it when guests arrive.
Tasty Variations
Gluten-Free Version
This bake is naturally gluten-free just pair it with GF crackers or gluten-free crostini. A great addition to a GF holiday table!
Add a Streusel Topping
Craving something sweeter? Mix a simple streusel of flour, brown sugar, and butter and sprinkle it on top for a crumble-like topping. Try this technique on White Lasagna for a savory twist!
Swap the Nuts
No pecans? Walnuts or almonds work too. Or, skip the nuts for a smooth texture if there’s a nut allergy in the family.
Add a Hint of Spice
Stir in a pinch of clove or nutmeg into the cranberry sauce for an even cozier fall flavor. It pairs beautifully with recipes like these Healthy Pumpkin Donut Holes.
How to Store & Reheat
- Refrigerate: Cover tightly and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 300°F for 10–12 minutes, or microwave individual servings for 20–30 seconds.
- Freezing Not Recommended: The texture of the cream cheese may change upon thawing.
Pair leftovers with morning toast or enjoy as a side to your Caramel Apple Puppy Chow for a fun after-school snack.
Conclusion
This Hot Cranberry Cream Cheese Bake with Pecans isn’t just a recipe it’s a celebration of fall. It’s easy enough for a weekday but special enough to shine on your Thanksgiving table. With simple ingredients and a rich, balanced flavor, it’s the kind of dish that disappears fast and gets recipe requests every time. For more seasonal inspiration, check out these Cheesecake Banana Pudding Bites or the always-loved Sweet Sourdough Pumpkin Bread with Cinnamon and Pecans.