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–+ servings
Cranberry Jalapeño Dip 1

Cranberry Jalapeño Dip

This Cranberry Jalapeño Dip transforms the humble cranberry into a show-stopping appetizer that perfectly balances sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors. The brilliant ruby-red dip creates an instant visual impact on any holiday table while the unexpected combination of fresh cranberries with spicy jalapeños creates a uniquely delicious flavor profile.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
Chilling Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 15 minutes
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Servings 24 servings
Calories 92 kcal

Equipment

  • Food Processor
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Slotted Spoon
  • Serving Dish

Ingredients
  

For the Cranberry Mixture

  • 12 ounces fresh cranberries rinsed and picked over
  • 2-3 jalapeños seeded and finely diced (adjust based on desired heat level)
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped
  • 4 green onions thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar can substitute honey or maple syrup for natural sweeteners
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice approximately one fresh lime
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Cream Cheese Layer

  • 16 ounces cream cheese softened to room temperature
  • 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract optional, but adds wonderful depth

For Serving

  • crackers, crostini, or tortilla chips
  • fresh cilantro for garnish
  • lime wedges for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Pulse the cranberries in a food processor until finely chopped but still textured (about 8-10 pulses). Avoid over-processing—you want small pieces, not purée.
  • In a medium bowl, mix the chopped cranberries with the diced jalapeños, green onions, and cilantro.
  • Stir in the sugar, lime juice, and salt. Let the mixture stand for 5 minutes, then stir again to ensure the sugar is dissolving properly.
  • Cover the cranberry mixture and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, though overnight is ideal. This resting period allows the sugar to draw moisture from the cranberries, creating a syrupy consistency while the flavors meld.
  • When ready to serve, spread the softened cream cheese in an even layer on a serving plate or shallow bowl. If using vanilla extract, mix it into the cream cheese before spreading.
  • Using a slotted spoon to drain excess liquid, spoon the cranberry mixture over the cream cheese layer.
  • Garnish with additional cilantro and lime wedges if desired. Serve immediately with crackers, crostini, or tortilla chips arranged around the dip.

Notes

For a lighter version, use Neufchâtel cheese instead of full-fat cream cheese.
Monk fruit sweetener works wonderfully as a sugar substitute for a lower-carb option.
If cilantro isn't your favorite, fresh mint creates a refreshing alternative.
Make-ahead strategy: Prepare the cranberry mixture up to 3 days in advance, then assemble with cream cheese just before serving.
For the smoothest texture, allow cream cheese to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before spreading.

Nutrition

Calories: 92kcalCarbohydrates: 6gProtein: 1gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 4gSodium: 85mgFiber: 1gSugar: 5g
Keyword Cranberry, Jalapeño, Holiday Appetizer, Dip, Cream Cheese Dip
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