Lightened Holiday Cream Cheese

Featured in: Snack Attack Fix

This creamy holiday dip blends softened cream cheese with plain nonfat Greek yogurt to create a lighter base. Dried cranberries add bursts of tartness, while green onions and parsley bring fresh herbal notes. Optional chopped nuts provide a crunchy contrast. Perfectly seasoned with garlic powder, salt, and pepper, this easy dish comes together in minutes and pairs beautifully with crackers or vegetables for festive snacking.

Updated on Tue, 25 Nov 2025 12:20:00 GMT
Festive Lightened Holiday Cream Cheese Dip, creamy and bursting with cranberries, ready to serve with crackers. Save
Festive Lightened Holiday Cream Cheese Dip, creamy and bursting with cranberries, ready to serve with crackers. | fizznib.com

A festive, creamy dip made lighter for guilt-free holiday snacking, featuring tangy cream cheese, Greek yogurt, and bursts of cranberry and herbs.

This dip is a holiday favorite that I enjoy making every year because it's quick and loved by all.

Ingredients

  • 8 oz (225 g) reduced-fat cream cheese: softened
  • 1/2 cup (120 g) plain nonfat Greek yogurt:
  • 1/3 cup (50 g) dried cranberries: chopped
  • 1/4 cup (30 g) chopped walnuts or pecans: optional
  • 2 green onions: thinly sliced
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley: finely chopped
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder:
  • 1/4 tsp salt:
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper:
  • Additional chopped cranberries herbs and nuts: optional garnish

Instructions

Step 1:
In a medium bowl beat together the softened cream cheese and Greek yogurt until smooth and creamy.
Step 2:
Stir in dried cranberries nuts (if using) green onions parsley garlic powder salt and pepper until thoroughly combined.
Step 3:
Transfer to a serving bowl. Garnish with extra cranberries herbs and nuts if desired.
Step 4:
Serve immediately with whole grain crackers sliced vegetables or refrigerate until ready to serve.
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Making this dip has brought a lot of joy to my family gatherings especially during the holiday season.

Notes

For a nut-free version omit walnuts or pecans.Add a touch of orange zest for a citrus twist.Serve with gluten-free crackers for a gluten-free option.This dip can be prepared up to 2 days ahead and stored covered in the refrigerator.

Required Tools

Medium mixing bowl.Hand mixer or spatula.Measuring cups and spoons.Serving bowl

Allergen Information

Contains dairy (cream cheese Greek yogurt) and nuts (if using walnuts or pecans).Omit nuts for a nut-free version.Always check ingredient labels for potential allergens.

A bowl of refreshing Lightened Holiday Cream Cheese Dip, garnished with herbs and nuts, perfect for sharing. Save
A bowl of refreshing Lightened Holiday Cream Cheese Dip, garnished with herbs and nuts, perfect for sharing. | fizznib.com

This lightened cream cheese dip is perfect for festive occasions and easy to prepare in no time.

Cooking Guide

Can I make this dip nut-free?

Yes, simply omit the walnuts or pecans to keep it nut-free without sacrificing flavor.

How long can the dip be stored?

Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to maintain freshness.

What can I serve this dip with?

It pairs well with whole grain crackers, sliced vegetables, or gluten-free crackers for varied snacking options.

Is there a way to add a citrus twist?

Adding a touch of orange zest brightens the dip with a refreshing citrus flavor.

Can I prepare this dip ahead of time?

Yes, the dip can be made up to 2 days in advance and refrigerated until serving.

Lightened Holiday Cream Cheese

A creamy, lighter dip featuring cream cheese, Greek yogurt, cranberries, and fresh herbs perfect for holidays.

Setup duration
10 min
Heat duration
1 min
Complete duration
11 min
Created by Chloe Bennett


Complexity Easy

Heritage American

Output 8 Portions

Nutrition Categories Meat-Free

Components

Dairy

01 8 oz reduced-fat cream cheese, softened
02 1/2 cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt

Fruits & Nuts

01 1/3 cup dried cranberries, chopped
02 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Vegetables & Aromatics

01 2 green onions, thinly sliced
02 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
03 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Seasonings

01 1/4 teaspoon salt
02 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Garnish

01 Additional chopped cranberries, herbs, and nuts (optional)

Method

Phase 01

Combine Base Ingredients: In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and Greek yogurt until smooth and creamy.

Phase 02

Incorporate Add-ins: Stir in dried cranberries, nuts if using, green onions, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until thoroughly combined.

Phase 03

Transfer and Garnish: Transfer the mixture to a serving bowl and garnish with extra cranberries, herbs, and nuts as desired.

Phase 04

Serve or Store: Serve immediately with whole grain crackers or sliced vegetables, or refrigerate covered until ready to serve.

Kitchen Tools

  • Medium mixing bowl
  • Hand mixer or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Serving bowl

Sensitivity Guide

Review ingredients carefully for potential allergens and seek professional medical guidance if uncertain.
  • Contains dairy and nuts if walnuts or pecans are included. Check ingredient labels for potential allergens.

Dietary Information (per portion)

Values shown are estimates only - consult healthcare providers for specific advice.
  • Energy: 90
  • Fats: 4 g
  • Carbohydrates: 8 g
  • Proteins: 5 g