This Cranberry Jalapeño Dip is a vibrant holiday appetizer that perfectly balances sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors. Fresh cranberries bring a tart pop, while jalapeños add a gentle kick — all smoothed out by creamy cream cheese.
It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any festive gathering! 🎄✨
🧄 Ingredients
For the Cranberry Mixture:
- 12 oz fresh cranberries (about 3 cups)
- 1 cup sugar (or use ¾ cup maple syrup for a healthier version)
- ¼ cup chopped green onions
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1–2 jalapeños, finely diced (remove seeds for less heat)
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- A pinch of salt
For Serving:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- Crackers, pita chips, or toasted baguette slices
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Make the Cranberry Mixture
In a food processor, pulse cranberries until coarsely chopped (don’t purée).
Transfer to a mixing bowl and stir in sugar (or maple syrup), green onions, cilantro, jalapeños, lime juice, and salt.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight). This allows the flavors to meld and the sugar to soften the cranberries.
Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Base
Spread softened cream cheese evenly over the bottom of a serving platter or pie dish.
Step 3: Assemble the Dip
Before serving, drain off any excess liquid from the cranberry mixture.
Spoon the cranberry-jalapeño mixture over the cream cheese layer.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy!
Serve immediately with crackers, pretzel crisps, or toasted baguette slices.
🌿 Tips & Variations
✨ Add a touch of honey if you prefer it sweeter.
✨ Use whipped cream cheese for a lighter texture.
✨ Add diced red bell pepper for more color and mild flavor.
✨ Make it festive! Garnish with extra cilantro or a sprinkle of chopped jalapeños before serving.
🧊 Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
(It’s best enjoyed fresh — the cranberry mixture can be made a day ahead.)
🎉 Perfect For
- Holiday parties & potlucks
- Thanksgiving or Christmas appetizers
- Game day snacks
- Gift platters with crackers or crostini
🌶️ Cranberry Jalapeño Dip – Sweet, Spicy & Festive!
Ingredients
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened (or dairy-free alternative)
• ½ cup dried cranberries, finely chopped
• 1–2 jalapeños, seeded and minced (adjust for heat)
• ¼ cup green onions, sliced
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp lime juice or apple cider vinegar
• ½ tsp cumin
• Salt & black pepper to taste
• Optional: ¼ cup shredded cheddar or cotija cheese
• Tortilla chips, crackers, or baguette slices (for serving)
Instructions
- In a bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth.
- Mix in cranberries, jalapeños, green onions, garlic, lime juice, cumin, salt, and pepper. Fold in cheddar if using.
- Chill at least 30 minutes to let flavors blend.
- Serve cold with your favorite dippers—great on toasted baguette slices!
✨ Perfect for:
• Holiday appetizer trays
• Game day spreads
• A surprising twist on cranberry sauce
💡 Make ahead: Assemble up to 2 days in advance—store covered in the fridge.
PREP TIME & NUTRITION :
Prep Time : 15 mins , Cook Time : 0 mins , Total Time : 45 mins (includes chilling) , Servings : 8 (¼-cup servings) , Calories : 120 per serving , Net Carbs: 8g , Fats: 9g , Protein: 3g