Hey y’all! If you’re searching for the ultimate party starter, this Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip Appetizer is about to become your go-to. It’s got the perfect balance of sweet, tart cranberries, zippy jalapeños, and cool, creamy cheese—all layered in one irresistible bite. Whether you’re hosting a holiday bash, game day party, or casual get-together, this dip always disappears fast. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip Appetizer
- Combines sweet, spicy, creamy, and tangy flavors in every scoop.
- Takes just 15 minutes to prepare—no baking required!
- Perfect make-ahead appetizer for holidays, potlucks, and gatherings.
- Gluten-free and easy to adapt for different diets.
- Looks stunning on any appetizer table with vibrant colors!
Ingredients for Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip Appetizer
- 1 (12 oz) bag fresh cranberries, rinsed and drained
- 1–2 fresh jalapeños, seeded and finely diced (adjust to spice preference)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- ¼ cup finely chopped green onions
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
- 16 oz (2 blocks) cream cheese, softened
- Crackers, crostini, or chips for serving
Directions: How to Make Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip Appetizer
Step 1: Chop and Prep the Cranberry Mixture
Add the cranberries to a food processor and pulse 7-8 times until finely chopped (not pureed). Place chopped cranberries in a medium bowl.
Stir in the diced jalapeños, sugar, cilantro, green onions, lime juice, and salt. Mix well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (up to overnight) to allow flavors to meld and sugar to dissolve.
Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer
Spread the softened cream cheese in an even layer onto a serving platter or shallow dish. Use a spatula to smooth it out for a nice base.
Step 3: Assemble and Serve the Appetizer
After chilling, drain any excess liquid from the cranberry mixture. Spoon the cranberry jalapeño topping evenly over the cream cheese layer just before serving.
Serve immediately with crackers, crostini, or your favorite chips!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 2 hours (or overnight)
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Notes: Tips for the Best Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip Appetizer
- For extra smooth cream cheese, beat it with a hand mixer before spreading. Learn how to soften cream cheese quickly.
- If you like it spicier, leave some seeds in the jalapeños or use a serrano pepper.
- This dip is best made ahead—the flavors intensify as it chills. Check out more cranberry prep tips at Ocean Spray.
Variations on Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip Appetizer
- Greek Yogurt Version: Swap half the cream cheese for Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier dip.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top for extra texture.
- Vegan Option: Use dairy-free cream cheese and plant-based sweetener.
Required Equipment for Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip Appetizer
- Food processor or sharp knife
- Medium mixing bowl
- Spatula
- Serving platter or shallow dish
Storage Instructions for Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip Appetizer
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For freshest texture, store the cranberry mixture and cream cheese separately and assemble just before serving.
Suggested Pairings & Serving Recommendations
- Serve with buttery crackers, baguette slices, or tortilla chips.
- Pairs beautifully with sparkling cider, festive cocktails, or a crisp Riesling.
- Try it as a spread for turkey or chicken sandwiches for a next-day treat!
Pro Tips for the Best Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip Appetizer
- Finely chop cranberries for the perfect texture—avoid overprocessing to mush. Read more about handling jalapeños safely.
- Soften cream cheese at room temperature for at least 30 minutes for easy spreading.
- Let the cranberry mixture chill overnight for the boldest flavor.
FAQ: Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip Appetizer
Can I use frozen cranberries?
Yes! Just thaw and drain frozen cranberries before chopping. The texture is slightly softer but works well.
How spicy is this dip?
It’s mildly spicy with one jalapeño (seeds removed). For more heat, add a second jalapeño or include some seeds.
Can I make Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip Appetizer ahead?
Absolutely! Prepare the cranberry topping up to 2 days ahead and assemble with cream cheese just before serving for best freshness.
Ingredients
- 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup fresh cranberries, chopped
- 2 medium jalapeño peppers, seeded and finely diced
- ¼ cup green onions, finely sliced
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- Crackers or sliced baguette, for serving
Instructions
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1In a medium bowl, combine chopped cranberries, jalapeños, green onions, cilantro, sugar, lime juice, and salt. Mix well.
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2Cover the cranberry mixture and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
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3Spread the softened cream cheese evenly on a serving plate or platter.
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4Spoon the chilled cranberry jalapeño mixture over the cream cheese layer.
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5Serve immediately with crackers or sliced baguette.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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