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Cozy Caramelized Onion Apple Cheese Dip: Best Easy Appetizer

caramelized onion apple cheese dip - featured image
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This warm, bubbly dip combines sweet caramelized onions, tart apples, and melty cheese for an irresistible appetizer that’s perfect for any gathering. It’s simple enough for a weeknight snack but impressive enough for company.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 medium Honeycrisp or Fuji apple, peeled and diced small
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 1 cup shredded sharp white cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves, plus more for garnish
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • For serving: crusty bread, apple slices, crackers, or pretzels

Instructions

  1. Caramelize the onions. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the butter. Once melted and foamy, add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Stir to coat. Cook for 30-40 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes, until the onions are deep amber and jammy. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  2. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  3. Prepare the apple. Peel, core, and dice the apple into small cubes (about 1/4 inch). Set aside.
  4. Mix the cheese base. In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, shredded Gruyère, grated Parmesan, fresh thyme leaves, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika (if using). Mix until well combined.
  5. Fold in the caramelized onions and apples. Add the cooled onions and diced apple to the cheese mixture. Gently fold until evenly distributed.
  6. Transfer to the baking dish. Spoon the mixture into an 8×8 or 9-inch baking dish and spread into an even layer.
  7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until hot, bubbly, and golden on top. For a deeper golden crust, broil for the last 1-2 minutes, watching closely.
  8. Rest and garnish. Let the dip cool for 5 minutes before serving. Sprinkle fresh thyme leaves on top.
  9. Serve warm with crusty bread, apple slices, crackers, or pretzels.

Notes

Don’t rush the caramelized onions; low and slow is key. Use room temperature cream cheese for smooth blending. Grate your own cheese for best melting. Let the dip rest 5 minutes before serving to set. Can be assembled a day ahead and baked fresh.

Nutrition

Keywords: caramelized onion dip, apple cheese dip, easy appetizer, party dip, holiday appetizer, cheese dip, caramelized onion apple dip

Find it online: https://tastytuck.com/cozy-caramelized-onion-apple-cheese-dip-best-easy-appetizer/