Introduction
Cranberry Jalapeno Cream Cheese is the ultimate festive appetizer that perfectly balances sweet and spicy flavors. This dip combines fresh cranberries with the heat of jalapeños, creating a delightful taste explosion that’s both creamy and refreshing. Whether you’re hosting a Thanksgiving gathering or a winter party, this dip will be a showstopper on your table!
Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Jalapeno Cream Cheese
This recipe offers numerous benefits that make it a must-try. First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, taking only 15 minutes of your time (JSON.Details.Total Time). Second, the combination of sweet and spicy makes it a treat that appeals to diverse palates. You can serve it as a Cranberry Jalapeno Dip with various dippers, or use it as a Cranberry Jalapeno Spread on bagels or sandwiches. Plus, it’s a vegetarian-friendly dish that fits into many diets. The vibrant colors also make it visually appealing for any party or gathering, making it a Spicy Cream Cheese Appetizer with Cranberry.
Ingredients for Cranberry Jalapeno Cream Cheese
Gather these items:
- 1 (12-ounce) bag fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1–2 jalapeño peppers, seeded and minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 2 (8-ounce) blocks cream cheese, softened
How to Make Cranberry Jalapeno Cream Cheese Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Add cranberries to a food processor and pulse until finely chopped (do not puree). If using canned cranberries, skip this step.
- Step 2: Stir in jalapeño, cilantro, sugar, salt, and lime juice. Cover and chill for at least 2 hours or overnight to develop flavor.
- Step 3: Spread softened cream cheese onto a serving dish or platter.
- Step 4: Spoon the cranberry topping evenly over the cream cheese.
- Step 5: Pair with crackers, crostini, pretzel thins, pita chips, or sliced vegetables.
Pro Tips for the Best Cranberry Jalapeno Cream Cheese
Keep these in mind:
- This dip can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for busy holiday schedules.
- Adjust jalapeño quantity based on your spice preference to make it a Cranberry Pepper Cream Cheese if desired.
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Consider adding more herbs or spices if you want to elevate the taste further.
Best Ways to Serve Cranberry Jalapeno Cream Cheese
There are many delicious ways to enjoy this dip. Serve it as a topping for Cranberry Jalapeno Cream Cheese for Bagels in the morning, or enjoy it as a Cranberry Jalapeno Cheese Spread at your next party. It pairs wonderfully with various snacks, including crackers, crostini, and fresh veggies.
How to Store and Reheat Cranberry Jalapeno Cream Cheese
To store your leftover dip, simply place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It can last up to five days in the fridge. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, there’s no need to reheat; it’s great served cold or at room temperature, making it ideal for meal prep!
Frequently Asked Questions About Cranberry Jalapeno Cream Cheese
What’s the secret to perfect Cranberry Jalapeno Cream Cheese?
The secret lies in balancing the sweetness and spiciness. Adjust the jalapeños to fit your taste, and allow the dip to chill for a few hours to let the flavors meld beautifully.
Can I make Cranberry Jalapeno Cream Cheese ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dip can be prepared a day in advance, which allows the flavors to develop even more, making it a perfect choice for holiday gatherings.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Cranberry Jalapeno Cream Cheese?
To avoid mistakes, ensure that the cream cheese is softened before spreading. Also, be mindful of the jalapeño quantity, as too much can overwhelm the other flavors.
Variations of Cranberry Jalapeno Cream Cheese You Can Try
Feel free to experiment! You can mix in other ingredients like nuts for crunch or additional spices for heat. Consider making a Cranberry Jalapeno Cheese Ball Recipe for a fun twist, or add more citrus for a zesty kick. This dip can also be transformed into a Sweet and Spicy Cream Cheese by adjusting the sugar content.
For more delicious recipes, check out our appetizer category or learn how to make easy avocado toast. If you’re interested in more festive ideas, visit our Pistachio Pavlova Meringue Cakes recipe.
PrintIrresistible Cranberry Jalapeno Cream Cheese Dip Recipe
This Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip is sweet, spicy, creamy, and the ultimate festive appetizer.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No cooking required
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 (12-ounce) bag fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1–2 jalapeño peppers, seeded and minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 2 (8-ounce) blocks cream cheese, softened
Instructions
- Add cranberries to a food processor and pulse until finely chopped (do not puree). If using canned cranberries, skip this step.
- Stir in jalapeño, cilantro, sugar, salt, and lime juice. Cover and chill for at least 2 hours or overnight to develop flavor.
- Spread softened cream cheese onto a serving dish or platter.
- Spoon the cranberry topping evenly over the cream cheese.
- Pair with crackers, crostini, pretzel thins, pita chips, or sliced vegetables.
Notes
- This dip can be made ahead of time.
- Adjust jalapeño quantity based on your spice preference.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
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