Spicy Cranberry Jalapeno Dip (Perfect for Holidays) Recipe
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4.7 from 71 reviews
This Spicy Cranberry Jalapeno Dip combines sweet fresh cranberries with spicy jalapeno and aromatic herbs atop a creamy layer of softened cream cheese, creating a festive and flavorful appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings.
Total Time:4 hours 15 minutes
Yield:12 servings
Ingredients
For the topping:
1/2 tsp cumin
2 tbsp lemon juice
1/4 cup chopped cilantro
5 green onions (thinly sliced)
1 jalapeno (seeded and finely minced for less heat)
1 cup sugar (Dixie Crystals recommended)
12 oz fresh cranberries
1/4 tsp salt
For the base:
2 (8 oz) packs cream cheese (softened to room temperature)
crackers for serving (such as Ritz or Wheat Thins)
Instructions
Prepare the Cranberry Mixture: Place the cranberries in a food processor or blender and pulse until coarsely chopped. Add green onions, cilantro, jalapeno, sugar, cumin, lemon juice, and salt to the cranberries, then pulse again until all ingredients are well combined and finely chopped, forming a cohesive blend.
Refrigerate the Cranberry Mixture: Transfer the cranberry-jalapeno mixture into a covered container and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
Prepare the Cream Cheese Base: Spread the softened cream cheese evenly on a serving plate or 9-inch pie dish to form a creamy base for the topping.
Assemble and Chill the Dish: Spread the chilled cranberry-jalapeno mixture over the cream cheese layer. Cover and refrigerate for up to one hour to let the flavors integrate well.
Serve and Enjoy: Remove from refrigerator and serve the dip with crackers, offering a delightful balance of sweet, spicy, and creamy flavors.
Notes
For milder heat, carefully remove all jalapeno seeds before mincing.
Use fresh cranberries for the best color and flavor; frozen cranberries can be substituted but may alter texture.
Allowing the cranberry mixture to rest overnight enhances the depth of flavors.
Softening the cream cheese to room temperature ensures smooth spreading.
Serve with your favorite crackers or vegetable sticks for variety.
