Festive Cranberry Jalapeno Cream Cheese Dip Recipe for Holidays

Spice up your next gathering with a holiday cranberry jalapeño cream cheese dip that’s sure to spark conversation.

Unexpected flavor combinations create magic in this crowd-pleasing appetizer.

Bold jalapeño heat mingles perfectly with sweet cranberry notes.

Creamy cheese provides a smooth backdrop for these vibrant ingredients.

Guests will be intrigued by the stunning red and green color palette.

Soft crackers or crisp vegetable sticks make ideal companions for this zesty spread.

Why Cranberry Jalapeno Dip Steals the Show

• Spice Up Your Gathering: A crowd-pleasing dip that transforms ordinary appetizers into a festive sensation with bold flavors and creamy texture.
• Customize Your Heat: Perfect for adjusting spice levels by controlling jalapeno quantity, making it adaptable for different taste preferences and guest tolerances.
• Quick Crowd-Pleaser: Super simple preparation that requires minimal cooking skills, allowing even novice cooks to create an impressive starter in minutes.
• Versatile Serving Options: Easily pair with multiple dipping choices like crackers, fresh vegetables, or toasted bread, ensuring everyone finds their perfect match.

Ingredients for Holiday Jalapeno Cheese Dip

• Cream Cheese: A smooth and creamy foundation that provides a rich, tangy backdrop for the dip.

• Cranberry Sauce: Adds a sweet and tart dimension to balance the richness of the cream cheese.
• Jalapenos: Brings a spicy kick and vibrant heat to the dip.
• Cilantro: Contributes a fresh, herbal note that brightens the overall flavor profile.

• Salt, Pepper: Essential for enhancing and balancing the flavors of the dip.
• Cheddar Cheese: Provides an optional extra layer of cheesy richness and texture.

• Crackers, Crostini, Cucumber, Bell Peppers, Carrots: Crisp and fresh accompaniments that complement the creamy dip.

Making the Cranberry Jalapeno Dip Recipe

Step 1: Whip the Cream Cheese

Grab a medium bowl and beat the softened cream cheese using a hand mixer or spoon until it becomes silky smooth and creamy. Ensure no lumps remain for a perfect texture.

Step 2: Blend Festive Ingredients

• Cranberry sauce
• Chopped jalapenos
• Fresh cilantro (optional)

Stir everything together until well combined. Taste the mixture and season with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.

Step 3: Add Cheesy Topping

Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the dip for an extra layer of deliciousness. Pop the bowl into the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes to let it slightly firm up and allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Prepare for Serving

Transfer the dip to a beautiful serving bowl. Garnish with a few extra jalapeno slices or fresh cilantro leaves to make it look appealing.

• Crispy crackers
• Toasted crostini
• Fresh vegetable sticks (cucumber, bell peppers, carrots)

Get ready to wow your guests with this zesty and festive holiday appetizer!

Best Tips for Jalapeno Cream Cheese Dip

• Soften cream cheese at room temperature for easier mixing and smoother texture.
• Adjust jalapeno amount based on heat preference, removing seeds for milder flavor.
• Chill dip before serving to let flavors meld and enhance overall taste profile.
• Use fresh cranberry sauce for brighter, more vibrant color and fresher taste.
• Experiment with different cheese toppings like pepper jack or goat cheese for unique variations.

Fun Twists on Cranberry Jalapeno Dip

• Vegan Cranberry Pepper Spread: Replace cream cheese with cashew cream cheese and use plant-based cranberry sauce for a dairy-free alternative.
• Low-Spice Family Version: Reduce jalapeno quantity or substitute with mild green chiles for a kid-friendly option.
• Mediterranean Herb Variation: Swap cilantro for fresh mint and add crumbled feta cheese for a Greek-inspired flavor profile.
• Gluten-Free Party Dip: Serve with gluten-free crackers or vegetable sticks like cucumber rounds and bell pepper strips to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Great Pairings for Jalapeno Cream Cheese Dip

• Pair with Crisp White Wine: Select a chardonnay or sauvignon blanc with bright acidity to balance the creamy dip's richness and cut through the jalapeno's heat.
• Complement with Crunchy Artisan Crackers: Choose rosemary-infused or sea salt wheat crackers that provide textural contrast and subtle herbal notes that enhance the dip's flavor profile.
• Match with Charcuterie Board Selections: Include mild salami, prosciutto, and soft gouda cheese to create a balanced appetizer spread that highlights the dip's sweet-spicy complexity.
• Refresh with Sparkling Cucumber Mocktail: Craft a light, cool beverage with muddled cucumber, mint leaves, and a splash of lime to cleanse the palate between bites and soothe the jalapeno's heat.

How to Store Cranberry Jalapeno Cheese Dip

Store the dip in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days. Seal tightly to prevent absorption of other refrigerator odors and maintain freshness.

Wrap the dip securely in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for maximum 2 weeks. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Place desired portion in a microwave-safe dish. Heat in 15-second intervals, stirring between each interval to ensure even warming. Stop when just heated through to prevent separation.

Remove from refrigerator 15-20 minutes before serving to soften slightly and enhance flavor. Stir gently to restore creamy consistency.

FAQs

• Are jalapenos too spicy for this dip?

You can control the heat by removing the seeds and membranes from jalapenos before chopping, which significantly reduces their spiciness. For milder flavor, use fewer peppers or substitute with mild green chiles.

• Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the dip up to 2 days in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. The flavors will actually develop and become more delicious as they meld together over time.

• Is this dip suitable for people who don't like super spicy food?

The cream cheese and cranberry sauce help balance the jalapeno’s heat, creating a mild, tangy flavor that most people find enjoyable. Even those who are sensitive to spice can usually tolerate this dip.

Holiday Cranberry Jalapeno Cream Cheese Dip Recipe

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4.7 from 29 reviews

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Festive holiday cranberry jalapeño cream cheese dip brings zesty spice and sweet tang to party appetizers. Creamy, tangy, and perfectly balanced, this crowd-pleasing starter will make you the star of seasonal gatherings.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 8 ounces (226 grams) cream cheese, softened
• 12 fresh jalapenos, seeded and finely chopped
• 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) cranberry sauce

Cheese and Herbs:

• 1/2 cup (60 grams) shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) fresh cilantro, chopped

Seasoning:

• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste

Serving Options:

• Crackers
• Crostini
• Fresh vegetables

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Instructions

1. Soften cream cheese at room temperature for 30 minutes, then whip using a hand mixer until velvety and smooth, eliminating any lumps.
2. Fold in cranberry sauce, finely diced jalapenos, and freshly chopped cilantro, blending ingredients thoroughly to create a harmonious flavor profile.
3. Season the mixture with a pinch of salt and ground black pepper, tasting and adjusting seasoning to personal preference.
4. Optional enhancement: Sprinkle a light layer of shredded cheddar cheese across the surface for added texture and depth.
5. Refrigerate the dip for 10-15 minutes to allow flavors to meld and slightly firm up the consistency.
6. Transfer to a decorative serving bowl, garnishing with a few strategically placed jalapeno slices and fresh cilantro leaves.
7. Accompany the dip with an assortment of crisp crackers, toasted crostini, and raw vegetable sticks like cucumber, bell peppers, and carrots for varied dipping options.

Notes

• Soften cream cheese completely at room temperature for the smoothest, creamiest texture without lumps.
• Adjust jalapeno quantity based on personal heat tolerance, removing seeds for milder flavor or adding more for extra spice.
• Choose fresh or homemade cranberry sauce for brighter, more vibrant taste compared to canned versions.
• Experiment with alternative garnishes like toasted pecans or green onions to add extra crunch and flavor complexity.

• Prep Time: 40 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Blending
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 118 kcal
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 130 mg
• Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 4 g
• Fiber: 0.5 g
• Protein: 3 g
• Cholesterol: 30 mg