Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces Cream Cheese, softened: Full-fat cream cheese is recommended for the best texture and flavor. Ensure it’s properly softened to room temperature to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth, creamy dip.
- 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar: Provides sweetness to balance the tanginess of the cream cheese. You can adjust the amount to your preference for sweetness.
- 1/2 cup Sour Cream: Adds a delightful tang and thins the dip to a perfect consistency, making it dippable without being too runny. Full-fat sour cream contributes to a richer flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile, adding a warm and aromatic note to the dip. Pure vanilla extract is preferable for the best taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (optional): A subtle hint of cinnamon adds warmth and complexity, complementing the sweetness and fruit flavors. This is optional but highly recommended for an extra layer of flavor.
Instructions
- Prepare the Cream Cheese: Begin by ensuring your cream cheese is softened to room temperature. This is crucial for a smooth, lump-free dip. If you’re short on time, you can carefully microwave it in 15-second intervals, checking and stirring in between, until just softened. Be careful not to melt it.
- Combine Cream Cheese and Sugar: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, add the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer (hand mixer or stand mixer) or a sturdy whisk, beat the cream cheese and sugar together until they are completely smooth and creamy. This step is important to fully incorporate the sugar and eliminate any graininess from the cream cheese. Continue mixing for about 1-2 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Incorporate Sour Cream: Add the sour cream to the bowl with the cream cheese and sugar mixture. Gently fold it in using a spatula or spoon until it is just combined. Be careful not to overmix at this stage, as overmixing can sometimes make the dip too thin. You want to achieve a homogenous mixture where the sour cream is evenly distributed.
- Add Vanilla Extract and Cinnamon (if using): Pour in the vanilla extract and, if desired, ground cinnamon. Stir them into the dip until they are thoroughly incorporated. Ensure the vanilla extract and cinnamon are evenly distributed throughout the dip to ensure a consistent flavor in every bite. Taste the dip at this point and adjust sweetness or cinnamon to your liking.
- Chill (Optional but Recommended): While the dip is delicious immediately, chilling it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (or up to a few hours) allows the flavors to meld together and the dip to firm up slightly, resulting in an even more enjoyable texture. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or transfer the dip to an airtight container before chilling.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once chilled (or immediately if you prefer), transfer the dip to a serving bowl. Arrange your selection of fresh fruits, cookies, crackers, or other dippers around the bowl. Encourage your guests to dip and enjoy! Garnish the dip with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a few fresh berries for visual appeal if desired. Keep the dip refrigerated if it’s not being served immediately, especially if it’s a warm day.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: one normal portion
- Calories: 130
- Fat: 10 grams