This raspberry dip is one of those recipes where the ingredient list sounds a little strange until you take the first bite. Sharp cheddar, pecans and green onions create a creamy, savory base, then raspberry preserves add a sweet layer on top. Scoop everything up with a buttery Ritz cracker and somehow it just works.
I’ve made this dip for gatherings for years, and the dish is consistently scraped clean. What I’ve learned is not to mess with the odd little combination that makes it so good. The sharp cheese, crunchy pecans, fresh green onions and sweet raspberry preserves all need to make it onto the cracker together.
My stepmom’s friend Mary originally shared this raspberry dip recipe with me, and I’m so glad I trusted her because it has become one of my favorite easy appetizers to bring to a party.
It takes just a few minutes to assemble, then the refrigerator does the rest. If easy make-ahead appetizers are your thing, I’ve got plenty more cold dip recipes to choose from.
Why This Raspberry Dip Works
- The sweet and savory combination really works. Sharp cheddar, mayo and green onions sound like unlikely partners for raspberry preserves, but the salty, tangy base balances the sweetness so perfectly.
- Every bite has multiple textures. Chopped pecans add crunch to the cheese mixture, while buttery Ritz crackers add even more crunch to every bite.
- It is ridiculously simple to make ahead. There is no cooking involved. Assemble the dip, refrigerate it for at least an hour and pull it out when you’re ready to serve. My creamy vegetable dip is another easy cold appetizer when you need something you can prep ahead.
- It has been party-tested for years. I’ve brought this raspberry appetizer to so many gatherings over the years, and an empty dish at the end of the night is the norm.
Recipe Ingredients
Cheddar cheese – Sharp cheddar is my favorite for this raspberry dip because its stronger flavor balances the sweet preserves. I prefer a thick or fancy-cut shred. Monterey Jack, Colby Jack or pepper Jack can also be used.
Mayonnaise – Mayo binds the cheese mixture together and gives the savory layer its creamy texture. I recommend using regular mayonnaise for the best flavor and consistency.
Pecans – Chopped pecans add crunch and a slightly nutty flavor. For a nut-free dip, simply leave them out.
Green onions – These add freshness and a mild onion flavor that helps balance the rich cheese and sweet raspberry layer.
Raspberry preserves – Use your favorite raspberry preserves or jam. You can experiment with other flavors, such as apricot preserves, but raspberry is the combination I make and recommend.
Ritz crackers – Buttery Ritz crackers are my first choice because they work so well with the sweet and savory flavors. Pretzels, Wheat Thins or Triscuits are good alternatives.
How To Make Raspberry Dip
- Combine the ingredients. Add the shredded cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, chopped pecans and sliced green onions to a large mixing bowl.
- Mix the base. Stir until everything is evenly coated with the mayonnaise and the mixture holds together.
- Transfer to the pan. Spoon the cheese mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Spread into an even layer. Use a spoon or spatula to spread the mixture evenly across the bottom of the dish.
- Add the raspberry preserves. Spoon the preserves over the cheese mixture and gently spread them evenly over the top.
- Chill and serve. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. Serve cold with Ritz crackers or your favorite crackers for dipping.
Recipe Notes
- Add fresh raspberries just before serving for a pretty finishing touch, especially when making this for a holiday or party.
- Make it ahead. Assemble, cover and refrigerate up to 24 hours before serving.
- Try a cream cheese variation. Replace half of the mayonnaise with softened cream cheese for a thicker, tangier dip.
- Don’t skip the chill time. Refrigerate the assembled dip for at least 1 hour before serving so the layers are cold and the flavors have time to come together.
Raspberry Dip FAQs
Can I make raspberry dip with cream cheese?
Yes. For a raspberry cream cheese dip, replace half of the mayonnaise with softened cream cheese. This creates a thicker, tangier base while keeping the sweet and savory combination that makes this dip so good.
Can I make raspberry dip ahead of time?
Yes! This is a great make-ahead appetizer. Assemble the dip as directed, cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before serving. Add fresh raspberries just before serving, if using.
What do you serve with raspberry dip?
Ritz crackers are my favorite because their buttery, salty flavor works especially well with the raspberry preserves and savory cheese layer. Pretzels, Wheat Thins and Triscuits are also good options.
Can I use raspberry jam instead of raspberry preserves?
Yes. Raspberry jam can be used in place of preserves. The texture may be slightly smoother depending on the brand, but either works well for the raspberry layer.
How long does raspberry dip last in the fridge?
Store leftover raspberry dip covered tightly in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. Keep the dip covered and refrigerated when you’re not serving it.
How long can raspberry dip sit out?
Raspberry dip should not sit at room temperature for more than 2 hours. If you’re serving it outdoors and the temperature is above 90°F, limit that time to 1 hour. For a longer party or buffet, keep the dip chilled or set out a smaller portion and replenish it from the refrigerator as needed.
More Easy Appetizer and Dip Recipes
- Sausage Cheese Dip is a hearty, cheesy crockpot appetizer made with just 6 ingredients.
- 7-Layer Taco Dip is another easy cold dip that’s perfect for parties, holidays and game day.
- Slow Cooker Corn Dip is a warm, creamy option when you want an easy party dip that can stay warm in the crockpot.
- Spinach Artichoke Dip is a classic hot dip made in the slow cooker and served with crackers, chips or bread.
- Creamy Vegetable Dip is an easy cold appetizer to serve with fresh vegetables or crackers.
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Raspberry Dip
Ingredients
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup pecans chopped
- 1 bunch green onions thinly sliced
- 18 oz raspberry preserves
- 2 sleeves Ritz crackers
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine the cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, pecans and green onions. Stir until evenly combined. Spread the mixture in an even layer in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, 1 cup mayonnaise, 1 cup pecans, 1 bunch green onions
- Spoon the raspberry preserves over the cheese mixture and gently spread into an even layer. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. Serve cold with Ritz crackers.18 oz raspberry preserves, 2 sleeves Ritz crackers
Video
Notes
- Add fresh raspberries to the top just before serving for a pretty finishing touch.
- Make ahead: Assemble, cover and refrigerate up to 24 hours before serving.
- Cream cheese variation: Replace half of the mayonnaise with softened cream cheese for a thicker, tangier raspberry cream cheese dip.
- Keep leftovers covered in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.Make sure you get every layer in each bite! The sharp cheddar, pecans, green onions and sweet raspberry preserves are an unusual combination, but together they’re what make this dip so good.
Nutrition
Megan Porta is a comfort food recipe creator who specializes in easy family meals and Instant Pot desserts, and the founder of Pip and Ebby. She has been cooking for three decades and developing recipes for over fifteen years, helping home cooks make reliable, cozy recipes for real life.
This is such an unlikely combo that I wasn’t sure it was going to work, but it does! Both my husband and I tried it and were pleasantly surprised. Would be great for gatherings this summer!
I agree with that sentiment but I also became a believer, Thanks for giving it a try, then letting me know you enjoyed it!
Hello, great dip! How long will it last in the fridge?
Great question! If you have it in a sealed container, it should be fine in the fridge for 3-5 days.
Can u make this with other preserves. Like blueberry rhubarb?
Yes, it would totally work. I don’t have experience with any to speak to, but I imagine it would be pretty good. Thanks for asking!
This is one of those recipes that sound weird but the ingredients are great together. I have made it for years and it is always a big hit with my guests. I am interested in trying the cream cheese or greek yogurt as a substitute for mayonnaise.
I agree, it doesn’t sound like a combo you’d normally put together. But it so delicious so I’m glad you agree!
Big hit at our house! Who knew onions and fruit would be so yummy together?!
This got eaten in outs 5 minutes!
That might be a record! Glad it was enjoyed. Thank you for sharing!
I tried this last night and it was absolutely delicious! I’ll be making it again soon!
So glad you tried it. Thank you for letting me know!
I’ve had this dip before and it is delish. I wanted it to be moldable so I used approx 2-3 Oz. of softened cream cheese and 2/3 cup mayo instead of the full cup of mayo. I mixed everything else as directed. I lined an oval container with plastic wrap.and packed mixture inside. I refrigerated well and then turned onto an attractive plate. Topped with raspberry jam, fresh raspberries, and finely sliced green onion.
I love that! Thank you so much for sharing those tips. I’m sure that someone else would love to use that tweak.
What a fun idea! I’ve never thought to make raspberry dip before. My kids are going to love this!
I’m so glad – hope you love it like we do! Make sure to come back and let me know!
I make the same recipe but instead of the raspberry jam, which I think may be a little too sweet, I spread a jar of red pepper jelly on top. It is absolutely amazing! It is sweet with a little heat. It will blow your mind!
Sounds amazing! Thanks for sharing!
if you were going to add cream cheese, how much cream cheese and how much mayonaisse? Can you also use miracle whip
Hi Terry, great questions! If you were going to substitute cream cheese for mayonnaise, I would say 4oz would be where I started and you could add more. 8 oz would be a cup, but the consistency is different, so it’d be a preference. If you wanted to go half and half, I’d do 4 oz cream cheese and half cup mayonnaise. As to the miracle whip vs mayo, miracle whip has a sweeter tangy flavor compared to mayo. If you already use miracle whip, I think you’d be ok using it and not be thrown off by the flavor. I’d love to hear what you decide and how it turns out! Thanks for reaching out.
The jam is actually delicious with it! Perfect combo of sweet & savory!
Agreed. Thank you for commenting!
I have done this before and decorated it with fresh raspberries. Delicious!
You can’t go wrong with fresh raspberries!
I wonder if anyone has made this with sour cream or maybe 1/2 C sour cream, 1/2C mayo or possibly cream cheese? I’m having a hard time getting past the 1 cup of mayonnaise. Seems like it would be overpowering and taste too much like mayonnaise.
Hi, I can understand that it seems like a lot. It turns out great, I promise! But I haven’t experimented with your suggestions, but I’d love to hear how they turn out if you do. You could substitute greek plain yogurt, that would be my suggestion. Make sure to let us know how it turns out!
I made this last night for a Christmas party. My family loved it. I used the seedless jam, but that’s the only thing I changed. Thanks for a great recipe!
Hi Ginger! I’m so glad your family loved this dip! Yay! Merry Christmas!
Megan
Megan every year I make this recipe. My family loves it and it looks festive and just like Christmas. Everyone loves it! Merry Christmas!!
I’m so glad to read this, Ronda! I love this recipe, too. It’s such a festive, delicious little holiday treat. Glad you enjoy it! Merry Christmas to you!
Megan
Exactly as you said, I was a little unsure, but with good reviews, I had to try it…and it looks so festive! My family loved it, and I was told I can and should make it again. THANKS!
Best if you use Palmers seedless raspberry
Does it matter, mayo or Miracle Whip?
Yes, will change the entire flavor of cheese. Miracle Whip much sweeter. I’ve tried both…stick with mayonnaise.
Sorry, that should have been a five star rating with mayo. Didn’t notice the other two stars weren’t there. A winning recipe. Fun to put in a small spring form pan.
Thank you for sharing! spring form pan is a great way to serve it.
one of the best things about your blog, besides the killer recipes, is that there is a PRINTABLE Recipe. THANKS and keep on posting!
This sounds different, and weird, and amazing all at the same time! I have to try!
it is also good with strawberry preserves. my aunt made this one time and made me try it before she told me what was in it. it is delicious!!!