Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip

Name: Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup fresh cranberries, chopped; 2 jalapeños, seeded and minced; 1/4 cup green onions, chopped; 1/4 cup sugar; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Crackers or vegetable sticks for serving

Highlighted under: Classic Comfort Dishes

This Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip is a perfect blend of sweet, spicy, and creamy flavors, making it an ideal appetizer for any gathering.

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2025-12-12T19:26:50.830Z

This dip is a crowd-pleaser that combines the tartness of cranberries with the heat of jalapeños. It's perfect for holiday parties, game days, or any casual get-together.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        The perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors
Creamy texture that's irresistible with crackers or veggies
Quick and easy to prepare, making it a go-to appetizer

      

A Flavorful Fusion

Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip is a delightful fusion of flavors that tantalizes the taste buds. The tartness of fresh cranberries complements the heat of jalapeños, creating a unique taste experience. This dip stands out from traditional appetizers, making it a conversation starter at any gathering.

The combination of sweet and spicy elements not only satisfies diverse palates but also adds a vibrant touch to your appetizer spread. Whether you're hosting a holiday party or a casual get-together, this dip brings a festive flair that guests will love.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This dip is versatile enough to be served at various occasions, from Thanksgiving to casual barbecues. Its vibrant color and attractive presentation make it a visually appealing addition to your table. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with a variety of dippers, including crunchy crackers and fresh veggies.

Additionally, the ease of preparation means you can whip it up in no time, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your gathering rather than stuck in the kitchen. This makes it an ideal choice for last-minute entertaining.

Make Ahead and Store

One of the best aspects of this Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip is that it can be made ahead of time. Prepare the dip a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.

When you're ready to serve, simply take it out, give it a good stir, and you're set. Not only does this save you time on the day of your event, but it also ensures a delicious, well-rounded dip that's ready to impress your guests.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup fresh cranberries, chopped
2 jalapeños, seeded and minced
1/4 cup green onions, chopped
1/4 cup sugar
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Crackers or vegetable sticks for serving

Mix all ingredients together in a bowl for a delicious dip!

Instructions

Prepare the Dip

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped cranberries, minced jalapeños, green onions, sugar, mayonnaise, and garlic powder. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.

Season to Taste

Add salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed.

Serve

Transfer the dip to a serving bowl and serve with crackers or vegetable sticks.

Enjoy your delicious Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip!

Serving Suggestions

This dip is best served chilled, allowing the creamy texture and vibrant flavors to shine. Pair it with an assortment of dippers to cater to different tastes—think buttery crackers, crunchy pretzels, or even fresh vegetable sticks like carrots and celery.

For an added twist, consider serving it alongside a cheese platter or charcuterie board. The creamy dip complements savory meats and sharp cheeses, providing a well-rounded appetizer selection that guests will enjoy.

Variations to Try

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as goat cheese or feta, to add a new dimension of flavor. If you're looking for a milder version, consider reducing the number of jalapeños or replacing them with bell peppers.

For an extra kick, incorporate spices like cayenne pepper or smoked paprika. These variations can elevate the dip and cater to different preferences, ensuring that everyone at your gathering finds something they love.

Nutritional Benefits

Not only is this dip delicious, but it also packs some nutritional benefits. Cranberries are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, offering health benefits that go beyond just taste. They can help support heart health and reduce inflammation.

Additionally, jalapeños contain capsaicin, which may boost metabolism and add a healthful zing to your appetizers. By serving this dip, you're not only providing a tasty treat but also incorporating nutritious ingredients into your gathering.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before serving.

→ What can I serve with this dip?

This dip pairs well with crackers, tortilla chips, veggie sticks, or even spread on sandwiches.

→ Can I use frozen cranberries?

Fresh cranberries are recommended for the best flavor and texture, but you can use frozen cranberries if necessary. Just thaw and drain excess moisture before using.

→ Is this dip spicy?

The dip has a mild spice level due to the jalapeños. If you're sensitive to heat, you can reduce the amount of jalapeños used.