Cranberry Jalapeno Dip

Discover the perfect blend of sweet and spicy with this Cranberry Jalapeno Dip recipe. Creamy and zesty, this easy-to-make dip combines cream cheese with tart cranberries and a kick of jalapeno, making it a delicious addition to any holiday gathering or snack spread. Serve with crackers or fresh veggies for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that elevates your entertaining game.

Tom

Created by

Tom

Last updated on 2025-11-24T09:12:40.037Z

This delectable dip is a crowd favorite, bringing a delightful combination of flavors that are perfect for any occasion.

The Perfect Balance of Flavor

Cranberry Jalapeno Dip is a delightful fusion of sweet and spicy flavors that is sure to tantalize your taste buds. The tartness of fresh cranberries provides a refreshing contrast to the heat of jalapeno peppers, creating a unique taste experience. When you combine this with the creamy texture of softened cream cheese, you get a dip that is indulgent yet light. This flavor combination makes it an irresistible choice for any social gathering, whether it’s a casual get-together or a festive holiday party.

In addition to its exceptional flavor profile, this dip is visually appealing. The vibrant reds and greens create an inviting presentation that will catch the eye of your guests. Served in a colorful bowl alongside a variety of dippers, such as crackers or fresh vegetables, it's sure to become the centerpiece of your snack table. Guests will not only enjoy the explosion of flavors but also appreciate the visually appealing details.

Easy to Make and Customize

One of the best aspects of the Cranberry Jalapeno Dip is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal preparation time, you can whip up this delicious dip in no time. Perfect for busy hosts, it allows you to spend more time enjoying the company of your friends and family rather than slaving away in the kitchen. Additionally, because it can be made ahead of time, it’s an excellent option for meal prep, ensuring you have a tasty snack on hand whenever you need it.

Moreover, this dip is easily customizable. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can adjust the amount of jalapeno or even choose to leave it out. Want to add a bit more depth? Consider incorporating additional spices or herbs, such as garlic powder or green onions. This flexibility makes it a versatile option, appealing to various palates and dietary preferences.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving your Cranberry Jalapeno Dip, the possibilities are endless. It pairs wonderfully with an assortment of crackers, from savory to sweet, giving your guests plenty of tasty options. For those looking for a healthier choice, offer fresh vegetable sticks like carrots, celery, and bell peppers for dipping. This not only adds a crunchy texture but also complements the creamy dip beautifully.

Consider creating a beautiful appetizer platter by mixing in other dips, cheeses, and fruits. This creates a colorful and diverse spread that encourages guests to mingle and try different combinations. You can also serve the dip alongside grilled meats or fish as a zesty sauce, making it a versatile addition to any meal.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your dip:

Ingredients

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup fresh cranberries
  • 1 jalapeno, seeded and finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Once you have collected your ingredients, you are ready to start prepping!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious dip:

Prepare the Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cranberries, jalapeno, sugar, lime juice, and cilantro.

Mix Until Smooth

Using a hand mixer, beat the mixture until it reaches a creamy consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Chill and Serve

Transfer the dip to a serving bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. Enjoy with crackers or fresh vegetables.

Your Cranberry Jalapeno Dip is ready to impress!

Storing and Reheating

To keep your Cranberry Jalapeno Dip fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors can actually deepen over time, making it just as delicious the next day as it is when freshly made. Typically, it can be kept in the fridge for about 3-5 days without compromising taste or texture.

If you prefer to make this dip in advance for an upcoming event, consider preparing it a day or two ahead of time. Just ensure you give it adequate time to chill in the refrigerator, which enhances the flavors. When you're ready to serve, simply take it out, give it a quick stir, and enjoy!

Nutrition and Health Benefits

This Cranberry Jalapeno Dip is not only delicious but also packs a nutritional punch. Fresh cranberries are known for their high antioxidant content and can support overall health. They provide essential vitamins and nutrients, making them a great addition to your diet.

Jalapenos, on the other hand, contain capsaicin, a compound that can boost metabolism and enhance the immune system. By enjoying this dip, you not only satisfy your taste buds but also take a step towards a healthier lifestyle. Paired with fresh veggie dippers, it becomes a guilt-free snack option for health-conscious individuals.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes, this dip can be made a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

→ What can I serve with this dip?

This dip goes great with crackers, tortilla chips, fresh veggies, or even spread on sandwiches!

Cranberry Jalapeno Dip

Discover the perfect blend of sweet and spicy with this Cranberry Jalapeno Dip recipe. Creamy and zesty, this easy-to-make dip combines cream cheese with tart cranberries and a kick of jalapeno, making it a delicious addition to any holiday gathering or snack spread. Serve with crackers or fresh veggies for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that elevates your entertaining game.

Prep Time10 minutes
Cooking Duration0 minutes
Overall Time10 minutes

Created by: Tom

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 8 servings

What You'll Need

Ingredients

  1. 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  2. 1 cup fresh cranberries
  3. 1 jalapeno, seeded and finely chopped
  4. 1/4 cup sugar
  5. 1 tablespoon lime juice
  6. 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
  7. Salt and pepper to taste

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cranberries, jalapeno, sugar, lime juice, and cilantro.

Step 02

Using a hand mixer, beat the mixture until it reaches a creamy consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 03

Transfer the dip to a serving bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. Enjoy with crackers or fresh vegetables.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 200
  • Fat: 15g
  • Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Protein: 3g