This Cranberry JalapeƱo Dip is a vibrant holiday appetizer that perfectly balances sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors. Fresh cranberries bring a tart pop, while jalapeƱos add a gentle kick ā all smoothed out by creamy cream cheese.
Itās the ultimate crowd-pleaser for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any festive gathering! šāØ
š§ Ingredients
For the Cranberry Mixture:
- 12 oz fresh cranberries (about 3 cups)
- 1 cup sugar (or use Ā¾ cup maple syrup for a healthier version)
- Ā¼ cup chopped green onions
- Ā¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1ā2 jalapeƱos, 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
š©āš³ Instructions
Step 1: Make the Cranberry Mixture
In a food processor, pulse cranberries until coarsely chopped (donāt purĆ©e).
Transfer to a mixing bowl and stir in sugar (or maple syrup), green onions, cilantro, jalapeƱos, 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-jalapeƱo mixture over the cream cheese layer.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy!
Serve immediately with crackers, pretzel crisps, or toasted baguette slices.
šæ Tips & Variations
āØ Add a touch of honey if you prefer it sweeter.
āØ Use whipped cream cheese for a lighter texture.
āØ Add diced red bell pepper for more color and mild flavor.
āØ Make it festive! Garnish with extra cilantro or a sprinkle of chopped jalapeƱos before serving.
š§ Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
(Itās best enjoyed fresh ā the cranberry mixture can be made a day ahead.)
š Perfect For
- Holiday parties & potlucks
- Thanksgiving or Christmas appetizers
- Game day snacks
- Gift platters with crackers or crostini
š¶ļø Cranberry JalapeƱo Dip ā Sweet, Spicy & Festive!
Ingredients
ā¢ 8 oz cream cheese, softened (or dairy-free alternative)
ā¢ Ā½ cup dried cranberries, finely chopped
ā¢ 1ā2 jalapeƱos, seeded and minced (adjust for heat)
ā¢ Ā¼ cup green onions, sliced
ā¢ 1 clove garlic, minced
ā¢ 1 tbsp lime juice or apple cider vinegar
ā¢ Ā½ tsp cumin
ā¢ Salt & black pepper to taste
ā¢ Optional: Ā¼ cup shredded cheddar or cotija cheese
ā¢ Tortilla chips, crackers, or baguette slices (for serving)
Instructions
- In a bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth.
- Mix in cranberries, jalapeƱos, 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 dippersāgreat on toasted baguette slices!
āØ Perfect for:
ā¢ Holiday appetizer trays
ā¢ Game day spreads
ā¢ A surprising twist on cranberry sauce
š” Make ahead: Assemble up to 2 days in advanceāstore covered in the fridge.
PREP TIME & NUTRITION :
Prep Time : 15 mins , Cook Time : 0 mins , Total Time : 45 mins (includes chilling) , Servings : 8 (Ā¼-cup servings) , Calories : 120 per serving , Net Carbs: 8g , Fats: 9g , Protein: 3g