Lightened Holiday Cream Cheese

Featured in: Retro American Dishes

This lightened holiday cream cheese dip blends softened cream cheese and nonfat Greek yogurt into a smooth, creamy base. Infused with chopped dried cranberries, nuts, green onions, parsley, and a hint of garlic powder, it offers a bright, tangy flavor perfect for festive gatherings. Ready in just 10 minutes, it pairs well with whole grain crackers or sliced vegetables. Optional garnishes add extra texture and color, making it an easy, flavorful snack for any celebration.

Updated on Fri, 28 Nov 2025 08:16:00 GMT
A close-up of lightened holiday cream cheese dip, a creamy appetizer with cranberry and herbs. Save It
A close-up of lightened holiday cream cheese dip, a creamy appetizer with cranberry and herbs. | 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 quickly became a holiday favorite, loved by family and guests alike for its creamy texture and bright flavors.

Ingredients

  • Reduced-fat cream cheese: 8 oz (225 g), softened
  • Plain nonfat Greek yogurt: 1/2 cup (120 g)
  • Dried cranberries: 1/3 cup (50 g), chopped
  • Chopped walnuts or pecans (optional): 1/4 cup (30 g)
  • Green onions: 2, thinly sliced
  • Fresh parsley: 2 tbsp, finely chopped
  • Garlic powder: 1/2 tsp
  • Salt: 1/4 tsp
  • Black pepper: 1/4 tsp
  • Additional chopped cranberries herbs and nuts (optional): for 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.
This festive lightened holiday cream cheese dip sparkles with cranberry and fresh herb garnish. Save It
This festive lightened holiday cream cheese dip sparkles with cranberry and fresh herb garnish. | zetluna.com

A beloved recipe that often brings everyone together around the holiday table.

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

Enjoy the smooth texture of lightened holiday cream cheese dip, served with crackers, a perfect snack. Save It
Enjoy the smooth texture of lightened holiday cream cheese dip, served with crackers, a perfect snack. | zetluna.com

This lightened dip is perfect for holiday gatherings or anytime you want a tasty yet guilt-free treat.

Common Questions About Recipes

What are the main ingredients in this creamy dip?

It combines reduced-fat cream cheese, plain nonfat Greek yogurt, dried cranberries, green onions, parsley, and seasonings like garlic powder and pepper.

Can I make this dip nut-free?

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

How should I serve and store this dip?

Serve immediately with crackers or sliced veggies. Refrigerate covered if preparing ahead; best consumed within 2 days.

Is this dip suitable for a gluten-free diet?

Yes, paired with gluten-free crackers or vegetables, it fits a gluten-reduced or gluten-free plan.

Can I add any extra flavors to enhance it?

Adding orange zest provides a bright citrus twist, complementing the tangy and herbal notes nicely.

Lightened Holiday Cream Cheese

Festive creamy dip with tangy cream cheese, Greek yogurt, cranberries, and fresh herbs for lighter holiday snacking.

Prep Time
10 mins
Time to Cook
1 mins
Overall Time
11 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 Ingredients: In a medium bowl, beat softened cream cheese and Greek yogurt together until smooth and creamy.

Step 02

Incorporate Mix-Ins: Fold in dried cranberries, nuts if using, green onions, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until evenly combined.

Step 03

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

Step 04

Serve or Chill: Serve immediately alongside 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 and may contain nuts. Omit nuts to achieve a nut-free option.

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