### Lighter Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip

**Recipe Summary:**
This lighter version of Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip combines sweet and tangy flavors, making it a perfect appetizer for any gathering. Easy to whip up and customizable, serve it with crackers, pretzels, or sliced apples for a delightful treat!

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**Recipe Description (Short):**
Enjoy a lighter take on this Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip, ideal for holiday parties. Quick to prepare and versatile, pair it with your favorite snacks for a tasty appetizer!

**Full Ingredients:**
– 8 oz low-fat cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries, chopped
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (instead of sour cream)
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 tsp cinnamon (optional)
– 1/4 tsp salt
– Fresh herbs (like mint or parsley) for garnish (optional)
– Assorted crackers, pretzels, or sliced apples for serving

**Full Instructions:**
1. Gather all your ingredients. If needed, microwave the low-fat cream cheese for 10-15 seconds to soften.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy (1-2 minutes).
3. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until fully incorporated and smooth.
4. Add the Greek yogurt and mix until well combined.
5. Chop fresh cranberries or ensure frozen ones are thawed and drained, then add to the mixture.
6. If using nuts, chop and add them to the bowl.
7. Add vanilla extract, cinnamon (if using), and salt. Mix until cranberries and nuts are evenly distributed.
8. Transfer the dip to a serving bowl, cover, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (overnight for best flavor).
9. Before serving, stir the dip and garnish with chopped nuts or whole cranberries and fresh herbs if desired.
10. Serve with assorted crackers, pretzels, or sliced apples. Enjoy!

**Notes:**
– For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or finely chopped jalapeños.
– Feel free to swap cranberries for chopped apples, pears, or dried fruits for a different flavor profile.
– Using low-fat cream cheese and Greek yogurt makes this dip lighter without sacrificing taste.

**Prep Time:** 15 minutes
**Cook Time:** 0 minutes
**Total Time:** 1 hour 15 minutes (including chilling time)
**Yield:** Approximately 2 cups of dip