This Cranberry Jalapeno Cream Cheese Dip is a fun mix of sweet and spicy! Creamy cream cheese pairs beautifully with tangy cranberries and a kick from jalapeños.
Perfect for parties, this dip is always a hit! It’s so easy to whip up—I like to serve it with crackers, and it disappears fast. Who knew something this tasty could be so simple? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: The base of the dip, cream cheese gives that silky texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, Neufchâtel cheese works well, or for dairy-free, try vegan cream cheese.
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries bring tartness, but you can use frozen ones if fresh aren’t available. Dried cranberries can work too, but they’ll make the dip sweeter, so adjust the sugar accordingly.
Jalapeño: Raw jalapeños add a spicy kick. If you want less heat, remove the seeds and ribs. For a milder flavor, you could substitute with a bell pepper.
Green Onions: They add freshness and crunch. You can swap them for chives or even shallots if you prefer a milder onion flavor.
Lime Juice: This adds brightness. If you don’t have lime, lemon juice is a great alternative.
How Do I Make the Best Cranberry Sauce for This Dip?
The cranberry mixture is key. Cook the cranberries slowly to develop their flavor. Here’s how:
- Combine cranberries, sugar, and water in a saucepan.
- Cook on medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst—about 8-10 minutes.
- Be patient! This is where the flavors come together. Once thickened, mix in the chopped jalapeño and let it cool down to really meld flavors.
By taking your time, you’ll add depth to this delicious dip! And remember, it’s great for parties but also perfect for enjoying on a cozy night in.
Cranberry Jalapeno Cream Cheese Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1/4 to 1/2 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 jalapeño pepper, finely chopped (remove seeds for less heat)
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped green onions (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- Crackers or sliced baguette, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dip takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 15 to 20 minutes for the cranberry mixture to cool. That’s it! In just a short time, you’ll have a tasty appetizer ready to impress your guests or enjoy yourself!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cranberry Mixture:
In a small saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, and 2 tablespoons of water. Cook over medium heat until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens slightly, which should take about 8-10 minutes. Once done, take it off the heat and stir in the finely chopped jalapeño. Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature.
2. Mix the Cream Cheese:
While the cranberry mixture is cooling, grab a mixing bowl and beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer or a spatula until it’s smooth and creamy. This gives the dip that fluffy texture we love!
3. Combine Ingredients:
Next, stir in the finely chopped green onions and fresh lime juice into the cream cheese. This adds extra flavor and freshness!
4. Incorporate the Cranberry Mixture:
Gently fold half of the cooled cranberry-jalapeño mixture into the cream cheese mixture. Be careful not to over-mix—keeping some chunks adds texture. Save the remaining cranberry mixture for topping the dip later.
5. Assemble the Dip:
Transfer the creamy dip mixture to a serving bowl. Spread the remainder of the cranberry mixture on top, creating a colorful, tempting layer.
6. Garnish and Serve:
For a finishing touch, garnish with extra finely chopped green onions. Now, it’s ready to serve! Offer it with crackers or sliced baguette, and watch it disappear. Enjoy your delicious creation!
This Cranberry Jalapeno Cream Cheese Dip is a fantastic blend of creamy, sweet, tart, and spicy flavors, making it the perfect appetizer for holiday gatherings or any fun gathering!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Yes! If you want a lighter option, you can substitute Neufchâtel cheese for cream cheese. For a dairy-free version, try using a vegan cream cheese alternative.
How Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cranberry mixture and the cream cheese blend a day ahead. Just store them separately in the fridge, then combine before serving for the best texture and flavor.
What if I Don’t Have Fresh Cranberries?
If fresh cranberries aren’t available, frozen ones can work just fine! Just make sure to thaw them before cooking. You can also use dried cranberries, but adjust the sugar since they are usually sweeter.
Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
Definitely! If you want less heat, simply remove the seeds and veins from the jalapeño. For even milder flavor, you could use a milder pepper or substitute with bell peppers.
