Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip

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Festive, fresh, and just the right amount of spicy, this Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip brings the perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and creamy to your appetizer table. It’s a holiday party favorite, but honestly? It deserves a spot at every gathering year-round. The zesty jalapeño kick mingles with tart cranberries, softened by the rich cream cheese base—every bite is a surprise of flavor and texture.

Whether you’re entertaining or need a quick dish for a potluck, this dip is a show-stopper with minimal effort. It’s colorful, bold, and versatile enough to serve with crackers, crostini, or even veggie sticks. Don’t be surprised when people ask for the recipe!

What Kind of Jalapeño and Cranberries Should I Use?

Fresh is best. Choose firm, bright jalapeños for that signature heat and crunch—remove the seeds if you prefer milder flavor. As for cranberries, go with fresh when in season for that vibrant, natural tartness. Frozen cranberries also work well if thawed and drained. Dried cranberries are not ideal here, as they bring a chewy texture and extra sweetness that can overpower the dip.

Ingredients for the Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip

• Cranberries: The star of the show, providing bright tartness and color.
• Jalapeños: For heat and contrast; adjust the quantity based on your spice preference.
• Cream Cheese: Softened to make blending smooth and to balance the sharpness of other ingredients.
• Sugar: Enhances the natural cranberry flavor and mellows the heat.
• Green Onion: Adds a mild, fresh bite.
• Cilantro: Lends herbaceous depth and a pop of green.
• Lime Juice: For tang and brightness.
• Salt: Essential for balance.

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How To Make the Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip

Step 1: Pulse the Cranberries

Place fresh cranberries in a food processor and pulse until finely chopped. Be careful not to puree—you want texture.

Step 2: Mix in Flavor

In a bowl, combine the chopped cranberries, minced jalapeños, sugar, lime juice, chopped green onion, chopped cilantro, and a pinch of salt. Stir to combine and let it sit in the fridge for 2-4 hours to marinate. This helps the flavors meld and slightly soften the cranberries.

Step 3: Prep the Cream Cheese Base

Soften the cream cheese by letting it sit at room temperature. Spread it evenly onto a serving dish or platter, creating a thick, creamy layer.

Step 4: Assemble the Dip

Drain any excess liquid from the cranberry-jalapeño mix, then spoon it evenly over the cream cheese layer. Garnish with extra cranberries, jalapeño slices, or cilantro if desired.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve chilled or at room temperature with sturdy crackers, toasted baguette slices, or pita chips.

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Tips for Serving and Storing This Dip

This dip is best assembled just before serving to keep the layers vibrant. You can make the cranberry-jalapeño mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 days, though the cream cheese may absorb the juices and turn pink—still delicious, just a bit messier!

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What to Serve With Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip?

Toasted Baguette Slices

Crunchy and neutral, they highlight the dip’s vibrant flavors.

Wheat Crackers or Water Crackers

The mildness lets the dip shine.

Pita Chips

Thicker texture holds up well to the layered topping.

Celery Sticks

For a fresh, crisp, low-carb option.

Carrot Chips

Naturally sweet and great for scooping.

Bagel Chips

Heartier and crunchy—a great match for creamy dips.

Crostini

Adds a rustic, bakery-style touch to your spread.

Pretzel Thins

Salty and snappy, they pair beautifully with the creamy base.

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Want More Dip Ideas with Bold Flavors?

If you’re into this zingy cranberry-jalapeño combo, you might fall in love with these too:

• The Ultimate Spicy Ranch Taco Dip for game-day perfection.
• Cream Cheese Olive Spread if you’re feeling fancy with Mediterranean flair.
• Green Olive Dip for a salty, creamy twist.
• Cheesy Rotel Ranch Queso for a melty, cheesy crowd-pleaser.
• The Ultimate Rotel Chicken Salad Dip if you’re looking for creamy protein-packed punch.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest appetizer board so you can whip it up for your next party!

Tried this dip already? Let me know how it went in the comments. Did you go heavy on the jalapeños or mellow it out? Maybe added some honey?

I love seeing your creative spins on my recipes. Don’t hesitate to ask questions or share your party-perfect ideas.

Explore more sweet, spicy, and savory appetizers on ChefAlchemy’s Pinterest and take your snack game to the next level!

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