The Ultimate Holiday Appetizer: Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip

By boom Last updated May 7, 2025

Introduction

As the holiday season approaches, finding the perfect appetizer that combines festive flavors with ease of preparation is a culinary goal for many. Enter the Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip—a harmonious blend of tart cranberries, spicy jalapeños, and creamy cheese that promises to be the star of any gathering. This dip not only delights the palate but also adds a vibrant touch to your holiday spread.

📝 Ingredients

To create this delightful dip, gather the following ingredients:

12 oz (340g) fresh cranberries

1–2 fresh jalapeño peppers, seeds and ribs removed, finely chopped
¼ cup green onions, finely chopped
2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

¾ to 1 cup granulated sugar, adjusted to taste
1 tablespoon fresh lemon or lime juice
⅛ teaspoon salt

16 oz (454g) cream cheese, softenedMeatloaf and Melodrama+3Mel’s Kitchen Cafe+3Sweet Beginnings Blog+3 Meatloaf and Melodrama Sparrows + Lily – Hope in real life+1Mel’s Kitchen Cafe+1 The Kitchn+1Mel’s Kitchen Cafe+1 Sweet Beginnings Blog+1Sparrows + Lily – Hope in real life+1

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Prepare the Cranberry Mixture:

In a food processor, pulse the fresh cranberries until coarsely chopped.

Add the chopped jalapeños, green onions, cilantro (if using), sugar, lemon or lime juice, and salt. Pulse until the mixture is finely chopped and well combined.
Transfer the mixture to a bowl, cover, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.Mel’s Kitchen Cafe+1Mel’s Kitchen Cafe+1 Meatloaf and Melodrama+7Mel’s Kitchen Cafe+7Sparrows + Lily – Hope in real life+7

2. Assemble the Dip:

After the cranberry mixture has chilled, strain it to remove excess liquid.
In a separate bowl, whip the softened cream cheese until smooth and spreadable.
Spread the cream cheese evenly on a serving platter or dish.

Spoon the strained cranberry mixture over the cream cheese layer.
Refrigerate until ready to serve.Mel’s Kitchen Cafe

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

This dip pairs wonderfully with a variety of dippers:

Crackers: Ritz, wheat thins, or multigrain varieties
Tortilla chips: For a crunchy contrast
Sliced baguette: Toasted for added texture

Vegetable sticks: Such as celery, carrots, or bell peppersthelovenerds.com+21Sip + Sanity+21Healthy Little Peach+21

Additionally, consider using the dip as a spread for sandwiches or wraps, adding a festive twist to your meals.

💡 Tips and Variations

Adjusting Heat Levels: For a milder dip, use only one jalapeño and remove all seeds and membranes. For more heat, include the seeds or add an extra pepper.

Sweetness Control: Start with ¾ cup of sugar and adjust to taste. Some prefer a more tart flavor, while others enjoy added sweetness.
Make-Ahead: Both the cranberry mixture and the assembled dip can be prepared a day in advance. Store covered in the refrigerator until serving.Meatloaf and Melodrama
Dairy-Free Option: Substitute regular cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative to accommodate dietary restrictions.

🎉 Conclusion

The Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip is a festive, flavorful, and easy-to-make appetizer that brings together the best of sweet, spicy, and creamy elements. Its vibrant colors and delightful taste make it a standout addition to any holiday table. Whether you’re hosting a party or attending a potluck, this dip is sure to impress and satisfy your guests.