Holiday Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Holiday Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip is a festive, flavorful appetizer that’s perfect for holiday gatherings. It combines the tartness of fresh cranberries, the spicy kick of jalapeños, and the creamy, rich texture of cream cheese to create a dip that’s both refreshing and indulgent. Its vibrant colors and bold flavors make it a standout dish on any holiday table.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Fresh cranberries
• Jalapeño peppers
• Green onions
• Fresh cilantro
• Granulated sugar
• Lime juice
• Cream cheese
• Crackers or baguette slices for serving

Directions

1. Prepare the Cranberry Mixture: Finely chop the fresh cranberries, jalapeños (seeds removed for less heat), green onions, and cilantro.
2. Mix Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the chopped cranberries, jalapeños, green onions, cilantro, granulated sugar, and lime juice. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are evenly mixed.
3. Chill: Cover and refrigerate the mixture for at least 2 hours or overnight. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
4. Prepare the Cream Cheese Base: Spread the cream cheese evenly on a serving platter or in a shallow dish.
5. Assemble the Dip: Spoon the chilled cranberry-jalapeño mixture over the cream cheese layer, spreading it out evenly.
6. Serve: Pair with crackers, baguette slices, or your favorite dippables.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Approximately 8-10 servings
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Chill Time: 2 hours (or overnight for best flavor)
• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes

Variations

• Add Nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch.
• Sweet and Spicy: Add a drizzle of honey for a touch of extra sweetness to balance the heat.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free cream cheese to accommodate dietary preferences.
• Extra Heat: Leave some jalapeño seeds in if you prefer a spicier kick.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: This dip is best served cold or at room temperature, so no reheating is necessary. Simply stir the topping before serving again to redistribute the juices.

FAQs

How far in advance can I make this dip?

You can prepare the cranberry-jalapeño mixture a day in advance. Assemble the dip just before serving for the best texture.

Can I freeze this dip?

Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the cream cheese and cranberries may become watery after thawing.

What crackers pair best with this dip?

Buttery crackers, whole grain crisps, or sliced baguette work wonderfully.

Is this dip spicy?

The level of spice can be adjusted by the amount of jalapeño used and whether you include the seeds.

Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?

Fresh cranberries are recommended for the best texture and tartness. Dried cranberries will alter the flavor and consistency.

How do I reduce the tartness of the cranberries?

Adding a bit more sugar can help balance the tartness if desired.

Can I make this dip vegan?

Yes, substitute the cream cheese with a plant-based cream cheese alternative.

What if I don’t like cilantro?

You can substitute cilantro with fresh parsley for a different but still fresh flavor.

How long does the cranberry mixture need to chill?

Chilling for at least 2 hours is recommended, but overnight yields the best flavor.

Can I add other fruits to the dip?

Yes, diced apples or pomegranate seeds can add an extra burst of flavor and texture.

Conclusion

The Holiday Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip is the perfect balance of tart, sweet, and spicy flavors with a creamy base that makes it irresistible. It’s an easy, colorful appetizer that will impress guests and add a festive touch to your holiday spread. Try it at your next gathering and watch it disappear in no time!

Print