Lightened Holiday Cream Cheese

Featured in: Homemade Treats

This creamy, lightened holiday dip combines softened reduced-fat cream cheese with plain nonfat Greek yogurt for smoothness. Dried cranberries add bursts of tart sweetness, while green onions, fresh parsley, and subtle garlic powder introduce fresh, aromatic notes. Lightly seasoned with salt and pepper, the dip yields 8 servings and pairs well with crackers or fresh vegetables. Optional chopped nuts provide crunch or can be omitted for a nut-free version. Ideal for quick preparation and festive occasions.

Updated on Tue, 25 Nov 2025 15:59:00 GMT
Creamy lightened holiday cream cheese dip with vibrant red cranberries and fresh green herbs in a bowl. Pin this
Creamy lightened holiday cream cheese dip with vibrant red cranberries and fresh green herbs in a bowl. | plumoven.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 recipe has been a favorite at our holiday gatherings for years, always bringing compliments and smiles.

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.
A close-up of the lightened holiday cream cheese dip, showing texture and the colorful toppings on top. Pin this
A close-up of the lightened holiday cream cheese dip, showing texture and the colorful toppings on top. | plumoven.com

My family always gathers around this dip, sharing stories and laughter during the holidays.

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

Whole grain crackers surround the lightened holiday cream cheese dip, ready for savory snacking and enjoyment. Pin this
Whole grain crackers surround the lightened holiday cream cheese dip, ready for savory snacking and enjoyment. | plumoven.com

This lightened dip adds a festive touch to any holiday table and can be customized to fit your dietary needs.

Recipe FAQs

Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes, it can be prepared up to 2 days in advance and stored covered in the refrigerator to develop flavors.

Are nuts required in this dip?

Nuts like chopped walnuts or pecans are optional and can be left out for a nut-free option.

What ingredients add tanginess to this dish?

The combination of reduced-fat cream cheese and plain nonfat Greek yogurt gives a tangy, creamy base to the dip.

How can I serve this cream cheese blend?

Serve with whole grain crackers, sliced vegetables, or gluten-free crackers for a wholesome snack option.

Is there a way to add a citrus twist?

A touch of orange zest can be added to brighten and enhance the flavor profile.

Lightened Holiday Cream Cheese

Festive creamy blend of cream cheese, Greek yogurt, cranberries, and herbs for a light holiday snack.

Prep time
10 min
0
Total Duration
10 min
Created by Plum Oven Sophie Warren


Level of challenge Easy

Cuisine type American

Servings made 8 Portions

Dietary details Meat-Free

Ingredient List

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)

How-To Steps

Step 01

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

Step 02

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

Step 03

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

Step 04

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

Equipment Needed

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

Allergy Advisories

Review each item for allergens and talk to your healthcare provider if unsure.
  • Contains dairy and nuts if walnuts or pecans are included. Omit nuts for nut-free preparation.

Nutrition info (per portion)

This nutritional overview is meant for general information. For medical concerns, ask a professional.
  • Caloric Value: 90
  • Fats: 4 g
  • Carbohydrates: 8 g
  • Proteins: 5 g