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Holiday Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip

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  • Author: samahkitchen
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2 hours
  • Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 10-12 1x
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: No-Bake
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Holiday Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip is the perfect combination of sweet, tangy, and spicy. It features fresh cranberries, zesty jalapeños, and a touch of sugar, all layered over creamy, smooth cream cheese. This festive dip is a hit at holiday parties, served with crackers, chips, or toasted baguette slices.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 12 oz fresh cranberries, rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely diced (adjust for spice preference)
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 small bunch green onions, finely chopped (about 1/4 cup)
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 16 oz cream cheese, softened (two 8 oz blocks)
  • Crackers, tortilla chips, or toasted baguette slices for serving

Instructions

  • Prepare the Cranberry Mixture: In a food processor, pulse the cranberries until finely chopped (don’t over-process). Transfer to a medium bowl.
  • Add Flavorings: Add the sugar, diced jalapeño, chopped cilantro, green onions, lime juice, and salt to the cranberries. Mix well to combine.
  • Chill: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the cranberry mixture for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best flavor.
  • Assemble the Dip: When ready to serve, spread the softened cream cheese evenly on a serving platter or in a shallow dish.
  • Top and Serve: Spoon the cranberry-jalapeño mixture over the cream cheese. Serve with crackers, chips, or baguette slices.

Notes

  • Make-Ahead Tip: The cranberry mixture can be made a day ahead. Add it to the cream cheese just before serving.
  • Adjust the Heat: Use more or fewer jalapeños depending on your spice preference. For extra heat, leave some seeds in.
  • Flavor Boost: Add a dash of orange zest for a citrusy twist.