In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer or whisk until smooth and creamy.
Add the chopped cranberries, brown sugar, sour cream, green onions, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to the cream cheese. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.
Taste the dip and adjust sweetness or seasoning as needed by adding more brown sugar or salt.
Transfer the dip to a serving dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (optional, but helps flavors meld).
Serve chilled or at room temperature with crackers or vegetable sticks.
If using dried cranberries, adjust the amount of brown sugar based on desired sweetness.
This dip can be made a day ahead. Just cover it well and refrigerate until ready to serve.