Lightened Holiday Cream Cheese

Featured in: Retro American Dishes

This creamy dip blends softened reduced-fat cream cheese and plain nonfat Greek yogurt for smoothness and tang. Chopped dried cranberries and optional walnuts add bursts of flavor and texture, while fresh green onions and parsley bring brightness. Garlic powder, salt, and pepper round out the seasoning. Serve garnished with extra cranberries and herbs alongside crackers or sliced vegetables for a light, festive appetizer.

Updated on Tue, 25 Nov 2025 10:32:00 GMT
Creamy Lightened Holiday Cream Cheese Dip, ready to serve with crackers, is a beautiful appetizer. Save It
Creamy Lightened Holiday Cream Cheese Dip, ready to serve with crackers, is a beautiful appetizer. | zetluna.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 has been my go-to holiday appetizer for years it always impresses guests without the extra calories.

Ingredients

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

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.
Save It
| zetluna.com

This dip always brings my family together during holidays creating warm joyful memories.

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

Nutritional Information

Calories 90 Total Fat 4 g Carbohydrates 8 g Protein 5 g per serving

This festive photo shows a bowl of Lightened Holiday Cream Cheese Dip, garnished with tasty cranberries. Save It
This festive photo shows a bowl of Lightened Holiday Cream Cheese Dip, garnished with tasty cranberries. | zetluna.com

Enjoy this lightened dip as a festive and flavorful addition to your holiday spread.

Common Questions About Recipes

Can I make this dip nut-free?

Yes, simply omit the walnuts or pecans to keep the dip nut-free without affecting its creamy texture.

How do I store the dip?

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

What are good serving suggestions?

Serve with whole grain or gluten-free crackers, sliced vegetables, or fresh bread for a tasty snack or appetizer.

Can I add a citrus twist to this dip?

Yes, a touch of orange zest added to the dip brightens flavors and complements the cranberries well.

Is this dip suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, using dairy ingredients and plant-based additions makes it suitable for a vegetarian diet.

Lightened Holiday Cream Cheese

A creamy, lightened dip with tangy cheese, Greek yogurt, cranberries, and herbs, perfect for festive snacking.

Prep Time
10 mins
0
Overall Time
10 mins
Authored by Clara

Recipe Type Retro American Dishes

Skill Level Required Easy

Cuisine Type American

Recipe Output 8 Number of Portions

Dietary Needs Veggie-Friendly

The Ingredients You'll Need

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 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
03 1/2 tsp garlic powder

Seasonings

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

Garnish

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

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 01

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

Step 02

Incorporate Flavorings: Stir in dried cranberries, nuts if desired, green onions, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until fully combined.

Step 03

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

Step 04

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

Tools You'll Need

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

Allergy Information

Review each ingredient to identify allergens and consult an expert if needed.
  • Contains dairy (cream cheese, Greek yogurt) and nuts if walnuts or pecans are included.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

Keep in mind these details are for general guidance and shouldn't replace professional advice.
  • Caloric Content: 90
  • Fats: 4 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 8 grams
  • Proteins: 5 grams