1-Preparation Steps: First, preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish. This ensures the dip won’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze later. Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature, as this will make it much easier to work with and result in a smoother texture.

2-Mixing the Base: In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy. This is an important step that helps ensure there are no lumps in your finished dip. Once the cream cheese is smooth, add 2 cups of mozzarella cheese, rosemary, and garlic powder, mixing until combined. The herbs and spices add a wonderful savory note that balances perfectly with the sweet-tart cranberries.

3-Adding the Cranberries: Gently fold in the cranberry sauce and fresh cranberries. Be careful not to overmix at this point, as you want to maintain some of the texture of the fresh berries. The contrast between the softened berries and those that retain their shape adds interest to every bite.

4-Baking to Perfection: Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese on top. This creates a beautiful golden cheesy crust that will make your dip look as good as it tastes. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 22-26 minutes or until the edges are browned and the cheese is bubbly.

5-Serving Suggestions: Remove the dip from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the dip to set slightly and makes it easier to scoop. Serve the dip hot with crackers, bread, or pita chips for best taste. The contrast of the warm, creamy dip with crisp crackers is simply divine.

For a festive presentation, arrange your dipping vessels in a circle around the baking dish and garnish with a few fresh cranberries or a sprig of rosemary. This simple touch makes the dish look even more appealing on your holiday table.