Spicy Cranberry Jalapeno Dip Recipe

Spicy Cranberry Jalapeno Dip is a quick appetizer that combines fresh cranberries, jalapeños, sugar, lemon juice, green onions, and cilantro into a flavorful topping that’s spooned over soft cream cheese.

The result? A festive dip that’s both spicy and sweet — perfect for crackers, chips, or baguette slices.

If you’re like me and love a balance of sweet, tangy, and spicy all in one bite, you’re going to be obsessed with Spicy Cranberry Jalapeno Dip.

It’s one of those quick recipes that surprises everyone at the table — a little heat from the jalapeños, sweetness from the cranberries, and creaminess from the cream cheese base. What makes it special is that it’s festive, easy, and always the first bowl to empty!

It’s perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas parties, potlucks, or even weekend snacking. You don’t need fancy tools — just a food processor or blender and a mixing bowl.

Why You’ll Love This Spicy Cranberry Jalapeno Dip Recipe

Because it’s bold, bright, and simple! You’ll love how the sweet cranberries balance the jalapeño heat, all resting on a creamy layer of cream cheese. It’s colorful, refreshing, and always gets people talking.

How to Prepare Spicy Christmas Cranberry Jalapeno Dip?

Recipe Overview

Spicy Cranberry Jalapeno Dip is a crowd-favorite appetizer featuring fresh cranberries, jalapeños, lemon juice, sugar, and cream cheese — all combined into one delicious spread.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Chill Time: 2 hours
• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
• Cuisine: American
• Course: Appetizer / Snack
• Difficulty Level: Easy
• Yield: About 2 cups dip
• Calories per Serving: Around 190 kcal
• Servings: 8
• Serving Size: 1/4 cup

Equipment

• Food processor or blender
• Medium bowl
• Rubber spatula
• Serving dish or platter
• Plastic wrap or lid for chilling
• Spreader or spoon

Ingredients

For the topping:

• 12 oz fresh cranberries (for best color and flavor)
• 1 jalapeño (seeded and finely minced for less heat)
• 5 green onions (thinly sliced)
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 cup sugar (I use Dixie Crystals)
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• 1/4 tsp salt

For the base:

• 2 (8 oz) packs cream cheese (softened to room temperature)
• Crackers for serving (such as Ritz or Wheat Thins)

Ingredient Notes

1. Cranberries: Use fresh cranberries for the brightest flavor and color. Frozen cranberries can work too but should be thawed first.

2. Jalapeños: Adjust the amount based on your spice preference. For extra heat, leave a few seeds in.

3. Sugar: Balances the tartness of the cranberries perfectly. Don’t skip it — it’s key for flavor.

4. Cream Cheese: Let it soften completely before spreading to get that smooth, creamy layer.

5. Cilantro & Green Onions: Add freshness that keeps the dip from feeling too heavy.

How To Make Spicy Cranberry Jalapeno Dip

1. Prepare the Cranberry Mix:

In a food processor, add cranberries, jalapeño, sugar, lemon juice, cumin, and salt. Pulse a few times until the cranberries are chopped but not pureed.

2. Add Fresh Herbs:

Transfer the mixture to a bowl. Stir in the chopped cilantro and green onions. Mix well to combine.

3. Chill:

Cover the bowl and refrigerate the cranberry jalapeno mixture for at least 2 hours. This helps the flavors blend and mellows out the sharp tartness.

4. Prepare the Base:

Spread softened cream cheese evenly on a serving dish or platter. Smooth it out with a spatula.

5. Assemble the Dip:

Spoon the chilled cranberry mixture evenly over the cream cheese layer. Spread it gently to cover the top.

6. Serve:

Serve with your favorite crackers, pita chips, or baguette slices.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 190 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 10g
• Sugar: 17g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 120mg

Pro Tips

✤  Add Extra Heat: Replace jalapeño with Serrano peppers if you like it hotter.

✤  Cranberry Sauce Shortcut: Use leftover cranberry sauce from Thanksgiving instead of fresh cranberries for a quicker version.

✤  Make Ahead: You can prepare the cranberry topping up to two days in advance. Store in a sealed container in the fridge.

✤  Serving Temperature: Serve the dip chilled or at room temperature. Both ways taste amazing.

✤  Storage Tip: Keep leftovers covered and refrigerated for up to 3 days. Stir before reusing.

Serving Suggestions

◈  Serve with Ritz, Wheat Thins, or baguette slices.

◈  It’s a great addition to a holiday appetizer board alongside cheese, olives, and nuts.

◈  Spread it on turkey sandwiches for a flavorful twist.

◈  Add it to wraps with grilled chicken for a sweet-spicy punch.

Storing Tips (Storage)

✅  Store leftover Spicy Cranberry Jalapeno Dip in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

✅  Avoid freezing — it can change the texture of the cranberries and cream cheese.

✅  Stir before serving again to refresh the flavors.

Recipe Notes

• Let the cranberry mix chill for at least 2 hours before serving — this helps mellow out the raw cranberry flavor.
• If making for a large group, double the recipe — it disappears fast!
• Don’t skip the lemon juice; it keeps the flavor bright and balanced.

FAQ

Conclusion

Spicy Cranberry Jalapeno Dip is one of those easy appetizers that checks all the boxes — colorful, flavorful, and ready in minutes.

I love making it for gatherings because it’s always a conversation starter. The mix of sweet cranberries, spicy jalapeños, and creamy cheese is simply irresistible.

Give it a try at your next get-together and let me know how it turns out! Leave a comment or share your photo — I’d love to see your version!