Save It A vibrant, sweet-and-spicy dip featuring tangy cranberries, zesty jalapeño, and smooth cream cheese—perfect for holiday gatherings or festive snacking.
I first made this dip for a holiday party and it quickly became everyone's favorite appetizer. The surprising kick from jalapeño combined with tart cranberries got rave reviews from even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients
- Cranberry Topping: 1 cup fresh cranberries, finely chopped. 1/2 cup granulated sugar. 1 medium jalapeño, seeded and finely diced. 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped. 2 tablespoons green onion, finely sliced. 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice. 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin. Pinch of salt.
- Cream Cheese Base: 16 oz (450 g) cream cheese, softened.
Instructions
- Mix Topping:
- In a medium bowl mix cranberries sugar jalapeño cilantro green onion lime juice cumin and salt. Stir well and let sit for 10 minutes to meld flavors and macerate cranberries.
- Prepare Base:
- Spread softened cream cheese on a serving platter or shallow dish in a smooth 1/2-inch thick layer.
- Assemble:
- Spoon cranberry-jalapeño mixture (including juices) evenly over cream cheese layer.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately with crackers sliced baguette or vegetable sticks. Or cover and refrigerate for up to 2 hours for enhanced flavor.
Save It My sister requests this dip every Thanksgiving and we love making it together. It always sparks smiles and laughter around our family table.
Required Tools
Mixing bowl spatula or spoon serving platter or shallow dish sharp knife and cutting board.
Allergen Information
Contains cream cheese (milk). Always check dippers for hidden allergens. Suitable for gluten-free diets if appropriate dippers are chosen.
Nutritional Information
Each serving contains approximately 170 calories 12 g total fat 12 g carbohydrates and 3 g protein.
Save It This colorful dip brightens any spread and tastes best when served chilled with crunchy dippers.
Recipe FAQs
- → How can I adjust the heat level?
Retain some jalapeño seeds for extra spice or remove them completely for a milder flavor.
- → Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the base and topping separately and combine just before serving to avoid moisture buildup.
- → What pairs well with this dip?
Crisp white wines like Sauvignon Blanc complement the bright and spicy flavors nicely.
- → Are there lighter ingredient alternatives?
Substitute half of the cream cheese with Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangy version.
- → Is this suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, as long as gluten-free dippers are served alongside, this dish fits gluten-free needs.