The Holiday Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip is a festive appetizer that perfectly blends tangy, sweet, and spicy flavors. With its vibrant colors and creamy texture, it’s an eye-catching dish for holiday gatherings. Whether served with crackers, chips, or fresh veggies, this dip is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 12 oz (340 g) fresh cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 jalapeño pepper, finely diced (remove seeds for less heat)
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 8 oz (226 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Crackers or tortilla chips, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the cranberry topping:
- Rinse the cranberries thoroughly and pat them dry.
- In a food processor, pulse the cranberries a few times until they are coarsely chopped (not pureed).
- Transfer the chopped cranberries to a mixing bowl.
- Add flavor to the cranberries:
- Stir in the sugar, lemon juice, diced jalapeño, green onions, and salt.
- Mix well and let the cranberry mixture marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to allow the flavors to meld.
- Prepare the cream cheese base:
- Spread the softened cream cheese evenly on a serving platter or shallow dish. Use a spatula to smooth the surface.
- Assemble the dip:
- Just before serving, spoon the cranberry mixture over the cream cheese layer. Spread it out evenly, leaving a small border around the edges for a clean presentation.
- Garnish and serve:
- Sprinkle fresh cilantro on top (if using) for added flavor and color.
- Serve with crackers, tortilla chips, or sliced vegetables for dipping.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving: This dip is best served chilled to maintain its refreshing flavor and texture. Arrange it on a holiday-themed platter for a festive touch.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the cream cheese base from becoming soggy, store the cranberry topping and cream cheese separately, if possible.
1. Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cranberry topping a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Assemble the dip just before serving to keep it fresh.
2. How can I make this dip less spicy?
Remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeño before dicing. You can also reduce the amount of jalapeño or omit it entirely for a milder dip.
3. Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen cranberries can be used. Allow them to thaw completely and drain any excess liquid before chopping.
4. What can I substitute for cream cheese?
For a lighter option, you can use whipped cream cheese, Greek yogurt, or a plant-based cream cheese alternative. These will still provide a creamy base for the dip.
Enjoy the Holiday Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip as a standout appetizer at your next celebration!
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Holiday Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8–10 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer, Dip
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American, Holiday
Description
This Holiday Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip is a festive, vibrant appetizer that combines sweet, tangy cranberries with the mild heat of jalapeños, layered over creamy cream cheese. It’s the perfect holiday party dip that’s as beautiful as it is delicious!
Ingredients
For the cranberry topping:
- 1 (12 oz / 340 g) bag of fresh cranberries, rinsed and drained
- 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1–2 jalapeños, finely chopped (seeds removed for less heat)
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 1/4 cup (10 g) fresh cilantro, finely chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the dip:
- 16 oz (450 g) cream cheese, softened
- Crackers, tortilla chips, or fresh veggies, for serving
Instructions
- Make the cranberry topping:
- In a food processor, pulse the cranberries until coarsely chopped (do not over-process).
- Transfer the chopped cranberries to a bowl and stir in the sugar, lime juice, jalapeños, cilantro, and salt. Mix well and let sit for 15–20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Prepare the cream cheese layer:
- Spread the softened cream cheese evenly onto a serving plate or shallow dish. Use a spatula to smooth it into a thin layer.
- Assemble the dip:
- Spoon the cranberry topping over the cream cheese, spreading it out evenly.
- Chill and serve:
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to develop. Serve chilled with crackers, tortilla chips, or fresh veggies.
Notes
- Make-ahead tip: Prepare the cranberry topping a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Assemble the dip just before serving.
- Adjust heat: Add more jalapeños for extra spice, or swap with a milder pepper if preferred.
- Presentation: Garnish with extra cilantro or a few whole cranberries for a festive touch.