Name: Cranberry Jalapeno Cream Cheese Dip Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 oz cream cheese, softened; ½ cup fresh cranberries, chopped; 1–2 jalapenos, finely diced (remove seeds for less heat); ¼ cup brown sugar; 1 tsp lemon juice; ½ tsp salt; ¼ tsp black pepper; 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish); Crackers (pita chips, or sliced baguette)

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Introduction

This Cranberry Jalapeno Cream Cheese Dip is a perfect blend of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors that will brighten up any snack table. Easy to make and bursting with fresh ingredients, it’s a crowd-pleaser for parties or cozy gatherings.

A close-up view of a white bowl filled with creamy white dip that has visible red cranberry pieces and green herb bits mixed throughout. The dip is thick and rich with a slightly rough texture, topped with a few whole, shiny red cranberries and sprinkled green herbs. A woman's hand is dipping a light brown crispy cracker into the creamy mixture, lifting it above the bowl. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface, with more light brown crackers blurred in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

8 oz cream cheese (softened)
½ cup fresh cranberries (chopped)
1–2 jalapenos (finely diced, remove seeds for less heat)
¼ cup brown sugar
1 tsp lemon juice
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Crackers (pita chips, or sliced baguette)

Instructions

Step 1: Chop the fresh cranberries into small pieces so each bite has a little tart pop. Dice the jalapenos finely, removing seeds if you prefer less heat. Let the cream cheese sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes until soft.
Step 2: In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped cranberries, diced jalapenos, brown sugar, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Stir gently so the sugar coats the cranberries evenly.
Step 3: Place the softened cream cheese in the center of the mixture. Use a spatula to fold everything together slowly, keeping the cranberries from bursting too much for a creamy texture.
Step 4: Taste the dip and adjust seasoning with extra salt, sugar, or lemon juice as needed to balance sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors.
Step 5: Spoon the dip into a serving dish or spread over a block of cream cheese for a festive look. Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro on top if desired. Arrange crackers, pita chips, or sliced baguette around the dip for serving.
Step 6: (Optional) Cover and refrigerate the dip for 2–24 hours to let flavors meld. Bring to room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving for the best creamy consistency.

Tips & Variations

Remove jalapeno seeds to control heat, or keep them for extra spice.
Use frozen cranberries if fresh are unavailable; thaw and chop before using.
Try adding a teaspoon of orange zest for a citrusy twist.
For a vegan option, substitute cream cheese with a plant-based alternative.

Storage

Store the dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Before serving, let it sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes to soften. Avoid freezing to maintain the creamy texture.

How to Serve

A close-up image of a white bowl filled with thick creamy white cheese spread mixed with red dried cranberries and chopped green herbs, creating a textured and colorful mix throughout. On top of the spread, there are several whole fresh red cranberries and small green herb leaves scattered as garnish. A hand is holding a light brown crispy bread slice dipped halfway into the spread, showing the creamy texture clinging to the bread. The background shows more light brown crispy bread pieces blurred out over a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes, it’s ideal to prepare the dip a few hours or even a day ahead. Refrigerate covered and bring to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

What can I serve with this dip?

This dip pairs wonderfully with crackers, pita chips, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetable sticks like celery and carrots.