Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. While the oven is heating, take your softened cream cheese and spread it into an even layer at the bottom of a small oven-safe baking dish or a decorative pie plate. Stir in the alcohol-free vanilla extract into the cream cheese before spreading for an extra layer of aromatic flavor.
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the cranberries, granulated sugar, orange juice, orange zest, ground ginger, and salt. Cook the mixture for about 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries begin to burst and the liquid thickens into a glossy sauce. Remove the pan from the heat and let it cool slightly.
Pour the warm cranberry sauce directly over the layer of cream cheese in your baking dish. Use a spoon to spread it out so that it covers the cheese evenly, leaving just a small border around the edges for a beautiful presentation. Sprinkle the chopped pecans or walnuts over the top of the cranberry layer.
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes. You want the cream cheese to be soft and heated through, and the cranberry sauce should be bubbling slightly around the edges. Keep an eye on the nuts to ensure they become toasted and fragrant without burning.
Carefully remove the dish from the oven. Garnish with a few fresh rosemary sprigs to add a piney Christmas aroma and a touch of green. Serve the dip immediately while it is warm and melty, accompanied by your favorite dippers.
