Cranberry Jalapeno Cream Cheese Dip

Cranberry Jalapeno Cream Cheese Dip combines a fresh cranberry mixture with jalapenos, sugar, lime juice, cilantro, and green onions poured over soft cream cheese. It’s served cold, making it refreshing yet rich.

The balance of spicy-sweet flavors makes it one of those recipes you’ll crave all season long.

I still remember the first time I served Cranberry Jalapeno Cream Cheese Dip at a Thanksgiving dinner.

I thought, “Will anyone like cranberries with jalapenos?” But one bite later, everyone was hovering around the dish asking for the recipe. Now it’s become a tradition in my kitchen.

This Dip is perfect for holiday gatherings, game days, or anytime you want a no-fuss appetizer that feels festive and fresh.

It’s colorful, easy to make, and pairs beautifully with crackers or toasted baguette slices.

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Jalapeno Cream Cheese Dip?

It’s the contrast of flavors — sweet, tart, spicy, and creamy — all in one bite. Plus, it’s so simple to prepare and looks gorgeous on the table.

You’ll love it because:

• It’s a crowd-pleaser with bold flavor.
• No cooking required — just blend, chill, and serve.
• Can be made ahead for easy entertaining.
• Looks festive for holidays or parties.

How to Prepare Cranberry Jalapeno Cream Cheese Dip?

Recipe Overview

Cranberry Jalapeno Cream Cheese Dip brings together the tang of cranberries and the spice of jalapenos over smooth cream cheese for a simple, colorful appetizer.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Chill Time: 4 hours for best flavor
• Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
• Cuisine: American
• Course: Appetizer / Snack
• Difficulty Level: Easy
• Yield: 1 large dip platter
• Servings: 4–6
• Serving Size: About ¼ cup per serving
• Calories per Serving: Around 180

Equipment

• Food processor or blender
• Mixing bowl
• Rubber spatula
• Plastic wrap
• Serving plate or shallow bowl
• Hand mixer (optional, for softening cream cheese)

Ingredients

• 12 ounces (340 g) fresh cranberries
• 4–5 green onions, chopped
• ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and finely diced
• 1 cup (212 g) sugar (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon or lime juice
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, light or regular, softened
• Crackers, for serving

Ingredient Notes

1. Cranberries: Fresh works best for texture and tartness. If using frozen, thaw and drain well.

2. Jalapeno: Remove the seeds for a mild dip or leave some for extra heat.

3. Cilantro & Green Onions: These add brightness and a pop of color.

4. Sugar: Adjust to your taste — less if you prefer more tang, more if you want it sweeter.

5. Lime Juice: Fresh juice gives the dip a clean, crisp finish.

6. Cream Cheese: Let it soften at room temperature for easy spreading.

7. Crackers: Try buttery crackers, pita chips, or toasted baguette slices.

How To Make Cranberry Jalapeno Cream Cheese Dip

1. Chop the cranberries:

Add cranberries to a food processor and pulse until finely chopped (not puréed).

2. Mix the flavors:

In a medium bowl, combine the chopped cranberries, green onions, cilantro, jalapeno, sugar, cumin, lime juice, and salt. Stir well.

3. Chill the mixture:

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. This step allows the sugar to dissolve and the flavors to blend.

4. Prepare the cream cheese base:

Spread softened cream cheese evenly on a serving plate or dish. You can whip it slightly for a fluffier texture.

5. Assemble the dip:

Spoon the cranberry-jalapeno mixture (drain excess liquid if needed) over the cream cheese layer.

6. Serve and enjoy:

Serve with crackers, chips, or toasted baguette slices. Every bite is sweet, spicy, and creamy!

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 180
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 11g
• Sugar: 15g
• Sodium: 130mg
• Fiber: 1g

Pro Tips

✅Make ahead: The cranberry mixture can be made 1–2 days in advance. Keep it chilled until ready to serve.

✅Less spicy? Skip the jalapeno or use half for a mild kick.

✅Add zest: Mix in a little orange zest for a citrus twist.

✅Vegan version: Swap regular cream cheese with a dairy-free option.

✅Add crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top before serving.

Storing Tips

▶Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

▶The cranberry mixture can be stored separately for up to 4 days.

▶Avoid freezing — it changes the texture of the cream cheese.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this dip chilled with:

1. Buttery crackers or pita chips

2. Toasted baguette slices

3. Celery sticks or cucumber rounds for a lighter option

4. As a spread on turkey sandwiches the next day — trust me, it’s delicious!

Recipe Notes

• Make sure the cream cheese is soft before spreading.
• Drain cranberry mixture before topping to avoid excess liquid.
• Best served chilled.
• Works great as a make-ahead appetizer during busy holidays.

FAQ For Cranberry Jalapeno Cream Cheese Dip

Final Thoughts

Cranberry Jalapeno Cream Cheese Dip It’s a perfect mix of creamy, tangy, and spicy that’ll make any gathering feel special.

Try it once, and I promise it’ll become a holiday favorite in your kitchen too. If you make it, let me know how it turns out — I love hearing your versions and tweaks!