Slow Cooker Raspberry Cream Cheese Dip

## Slow Cooker Raspberry Cream Cheese Dip

• Prep time: 5 minutes

• Cook time: 1.5 to 2 hours (Low)

• Servings: 10–12

• Difficulty: Beginner-friendly

### Ingredients

• Cream Cheese: 2 blocks (8 oz each), cubed for faster melting.

• Raspberry Preserves: 1 cup (seedless is preferred for a smoother texture).

• Fresh Raspberries: ½ cup (adds a pop of tartness).

• Jalapeño: 1 small, finely minced (remove seeds for less heat).

• Honey: 1 tablespoon (to balance the tartness).

• Fresh Thyme or Mint: 1 teaspoon, chopped (optional garnish).

• To Serve: Toasted baguette slices, graham crackers, or salty pretzels.

### Instructions

1. Layering: Lightly grease your slow cooker or use a liner. Place the cubed cream cheese at the bottom.

2. Topping: In a small bowl, whisk together the raspberry preserves, minced jalapeño, and honey. Pour this mixture over the cream cheese.

3. Slow Cook: Cover and cook on Low for 1.5 to 2 hours. Avoid using the High setting, as dairy can break or scorch around the edges.

4. The Swirl: Once the cheese is soft and the sauce is bubbly, use a knife or spoon to gently swirl the raspberry mixture into the cheese. Don’t over-mix; you want beautiful pink streaks.

5. Final Touch: Top with fresh raspberries and herbs just before serving.

### Notes & Pro-Tips

• Temperature Matters: Use full-fat cream cheese for the best consistency. Low-fat versions tend to become watery when heated.

• The “Slow” in Slow Cooker: If you are in a rush, you can do this in 45 minutes on high, but keep a close eye on the edges to prevent burning.

• Acid Balance: If the dip feels too sweet, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end will brighten the whole dish.

### Nutritional Info (Per Serving)

Estimate based on 1/12th of the recipe.

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	185 kcal
Total Fat	12g
Carbohydrates	16g
Protein	3g
Sugar	12g

### Benefits of This Recipe

• Hands-Off Entertaining: Keeps itself warm throughout the entire party.

• Versatility: It bridges the gap between sweet and savory, meaning it works as an appetizer or a light dessert.

• Customizable Heat: You can swap the jalapeño for habanero for a kick, or omit it entirely for kids.

### Q&A

Q: Can I use frozen raspberries?

A: Yes! However, frozen berries release more water. Thaw and pat them dry first to avoid a runny dip.

Q: How long can it stay in the slow cooker?

A: Once melted, switch to the “Warm” setting. It’s best consumed within 3 hours; after that, the cheese may begin to darken or toughen.

Q: What do I do with leftovers?

A: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. It actually makes a fantastic spread for a turkey sandwich or a morning bagel!