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Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip

Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip

Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip is a vibrant and crowd-pleasing appetizer combining the sweet tang of whole berry cranberry sauce with the spicy kick of fresh jalapeños, all folded into rich, smooth cream cheese. Perfect for holiday gatherings, casual parties, or anytime you want a flavorful, creamy dip that excites the palate with a bold sweet and spicy balance.

Ingredients

Scale

Base Ingredients

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup whole berry cranberry sauce

Fresh Produce

  • 12 fresh jalapeños, finely chopped (seeds removed for milder heat)
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced

Seasonings

  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Chop the fresh jalapeños finely, removing seeds if you prefer less heat. Slice the green onions thinly. Measure out the cream cheese and cranberry sauce and have all ingredients ready.
  2. Soften the Cream Cheese: Let the cream cheese sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to soften, making it easier to blend smoothly without lumps.
  3. Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, blend the softened cream cheese with the whole berry cranberry sauce until smooth and well combined. Fold in the chopped jalapeños, green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper evenly.
  4. Taste and Adjust: Taste the dip and adjust the seasoning as desired. Add more salt, pepper, or jalapeño depending on your preferred balance of flavors and heat.
  5. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the dip for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld and the texture firm up. Serve cold or at room temperature for best enjoyment.

Notes

  • Use fresh jalapeños for best flavor and a crisp texture.
  • Allow cream cheese to soften at room temperature to avoid lumps in the dip.
  • Adjust jalapeño quantity gradually to control spiciness without overwhelming the dip.
  • Chilling the dip enhances flavor melding and improves texture.
  • Serve with sturdy crackers, toasted bread, pita chips, or fresh veggies for the best pairing.

Nutrition

Keywords: cranberry dip, jalapeño dip, cream cheese dip, holiday appetizer, spicy dip, sweet and spicy dip, gluten-free dip