Cranberry Jalapeno Dip

Name: Cranberry Jalapeno Dip
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup fresh cranberries; 2 jalapenos, seeded and minced; 1/4 cup green onions, chopped; 1/4 cup sugar; 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

This delightful Cranberry Jalapeno Dip combines sweet and spicy notes for a unique appetizer that will impress your guests. Cream cheese serves as the perfect base, while fresh cranberries and zesty jalapenos bring a burst of flavor that pairs beautifully with crackers or fresh veggies. Ideal for holiday gatherings or casual get-togethers, this dip is a crowd-pleaser that adds a festive touch to any spread.

Created by

Riley Dawson

Last updated on 2025-12-11T13:04:21.729Z

Perfect for Any Occasion

Hosting a holiday party or a casual get-together? This Cranberry Jalapeno Dip is an excellent choice for adding a festive flair to your appetizer table. The vibrant colors of the fresh cranberries and the green jalapenos immediately catch the eye, making it a standout dish. Plus, its delightful balance of sweet and spicy flavors appeals to a variety of palates.

Versatile and easy to prepare, this dip fits seamlessly into various social settings. Whether you are entertaining close friends, family, or coworkers, its approachable yet sophisticated taste will ensure that it becomes a favorite among your guests. Pair it with an assortment of crackers, chips, or fresh vegetables for a delightful snacking experience.

Flavor Profile

The combination of sweet and spicy elements in this dip creates a unique flavor profile that is both refreshing and invigorating. The cream cheese base adds a rich creaminess that balances the tartness of the cranberries and the heat from the jalapenos. As you take a bite, you'll experience a burst of flavors that meld beautifully, making each scoop an adventure for your taste buds.

Green onions and cilantro provide additional depth, offering fresh herbal notes that enhance the overall tasting experience. The sugar adds just the right amount of sweetness, making it a delightful contrast to the spicy jalapenos. This dip truly embodies the essence of holiday cooking—creating feel-good moments with impeccable flavors.

Tips for the Best Results

To ensure that all the ingredients meld together perfectly, it's crucial to allow the dip to chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. This step is vital; it gives the flavors time to develop and enhances the overall enjoyment of the dish. If you're planning ahead, feel free to make it a day in advance—just give it a good stir before serving.

Experimenting with variations is another way to personalize this recipe. If you prefer a milder dip, consider reducing the number of jalapenos or substituting them with sweet bell peppers. Alternatively, if you're a fan of heat, you can add additional jalapenos or even a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup fresh cranberries
2 jalapenos, seeded and minced
1/4 cup green onions, chopped
1/4 cup sugar
1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
Salt to taste

Combine all ingredients for a delightful flavor.

Instructions

Prepare the Dip

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, fresh cranberries, minced jalapenos, chopped green onions, sugar, cilantro, and salt. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.

Chill and Serve

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled with crackers or fresh vegetables.

Enjoy your delicious dip!

Serving Suggestions

This Cranberry Jalapeno Dip pairs wonderfully with a range of dippers. For a classic choice, serve it alongside an array of crunchy crackers—opt for variations like whole-grain or herb-infused for extra flavor. Fresh vegetable sticks such as carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers not only provide a healthy option but also add a refreshing crunch that complements the creamy dip.

If you’re feeling creative, consider adding the dip as a topping for grilled meats or as a spread for sandwiches. It can transform a simple dish into something special, giving your meals an unexpected burst of flavor that leaves everyone wanting more.

Storage Tips

If you have any leftovers, storing them properly is key to maintaining freshness. Transfer the dip to an airtight container and refrigerate it promptly. It should stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. Before serving the leftovers, give them a good stir to reintegrate the ingredients and taste for seasoning—adjust as needed since flavors may intensify over time.

Freezing this dip is also an option for prolonged storage. Just ensure that it's placed in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then mix well before serving for the best quality.

Nutritional Information

This dip not only satisfies taste buds but also offers a handful of nutritional benefits. Fresh cranberries are a great source of vitamins, especially vitamin C and fiber, making this dip a healthier choice for your gatherings. Additionally, jalapenos provide a kick while packing nutrients like vitamin A and antioxidants.

While cream cheese does add some calories, you can easily lighten it up by opting for reduced-fat cream cheese if desired. By balancing the ingredients, you can enjoy a delicious treat that is both flavor-packed and nutritious, making it a win-win for your next event.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes, it's best to make it a few hours in advance or the day before to enhance the flavors.

→ What can I serve with this dip?

This dip pairs well with crackers, fresh vegetables, or toasted baguette slices.