Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip Recipe
Introduction
This Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip is a vibrant and flavorful appetizer perfect for any gathering. The tangy cranberries combined with a spicy kick from jalapeños make it a refreshing twist on classic cream cheese dips. It’s quick to prepare and sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients
- 12 oz fresh cranberries
- 2 medium jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
- 2 blocks (16 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Step 1: Rinse and dry the cranberries, then pulse them in a food processor until finely chopped but not pureed.
- Step 2: Transfer the chopped cranberries to a bowl and stir in the chopped jalapeños, sugar, green onions, cilantro, lime juice, and salt. Let the mixture sit for 15–30 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Step 3: In a separate bowl, whip the softened cream cheese until it is fluffy and smooth.
- Step 4: Spread the whipped cream cheese evenly on a serving plate or shallow dish.
- Step 5: Spoon the cranberry-jalapeño mixture over the cream cheese layer and gently spread it.
- Step 6: Garnish with extra cranberries, jalapeño slices, and herbs if desired.
- Step 7: Serve immediately with crackers, crostini, or pita chips.
Tips & Variations
- For a milder dip, reduce the amount of jalapeño or leave out the seeds entirely.
- Add a teaspoon of honey for a touch of extra sweetness if desired.
- Use fresh herbs like parsley or mint in place of cilantro for a different flavor profile.
Storage
Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The dip is best served fresh, but you can let it come to room temperature before serving to soften the cream cheese. Avoid freezing as it may affect the texture.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cranberry-jalapeño mixture a few hours in advance to allow the flavors to develop. Whip the cream cheese and assemble the dip just before serving for the best texture.
What can I serve with this dip?
This dip pairs well with crackers, crostini, pita chips, or fresh vegetable sticks like cucumber and bell peppers for a tasty appetizer or snack.
PrintCranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip Recipe
A vibrant and tangy Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip that combines the tartness of fresh cranberries with the spicy kick of jalapeños, perfectly balanced by creamy whipped cream cheese. This easy, no-cook appetizer is ideal for parties and holiday gatherings, served best with crackers, crostini, or pita chips.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Dip Ingredients
- 12 oz fresh cranberries
- 2 medium jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
- 2 blocks (16 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Prepare cranberries: Rinse and dry the fresh cranberries thoroughly. Use a food processor to pulse the cranberries until they are finely chopped but not pureed, ensuring a chunky texture for the dip.
- Mix cranberry-jalapeño blend: Transfer the chopped cranberries to a mixing bowl. Add the finely chopped, seeded jalapeños, sugar, green onions, cilantro, lime juice, and salt. Stir everything together well and let the mixture sit for 15 to 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Whip cream cheese: In a separate bowl, whip the softened cream cheese using an electric mixer or whisk until it becomes fluffy and smooth, creating a light base for the dip.
- Assemble dip base: Spread the whipped cream cheese evenly on a serving plate or a shallow dish, forming a smooth layer that will hold the cranberry topping.
- Add cranberry topping: Spoon the cranberry and jalapeño mixture over the whipped cream cheese layer. Gently spread it out evenly to cover the cream cheese completely.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish the dip with extra cranberries, jalapeño slices, and fresh herbs for added color and texture. Serve immediately alongside crackers, crostini, or pita chips.
Notes
- For a milder dip, remove all seeds from jalapeños; leave some seeds for extra heat.
- Letting the cranberry mixture sit longer enhances flavor melding and softens the cranberries slightly.
- Ensure cream cheese is sufficiently softened to make whipping easier and the texture light.
- This dip is best served fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours with covering; stir gently before serving.
- Swap cilantro with parsley if you prefer a milder herb flavor.
Keywords: Cranberry Jalapeño Dip, Cream Cheese Dip, Holiday Appetizer, Spicy Cranberry Dip, Easy Party Dip
