Cranberry Jalapeño Dip Appetizer (Printable)

Bright cranberry and jalapeño blend over creamy cheese creates a festive, sweet-spicy dip for gatherings.

# What You'll Need:

→ Fruit & Vegetables

01 - 2 cups fresh cranberries
02 - 1 to 2 medium jalapeño peppers, seeded and finely diced
03 - 1/4 cup green onions, thinly sliced
04 - 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

→ Sweeteners & Seasonings

05 - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
06 - 1 tablespoon lime juice
07 - 1/8 teaspoon salt

→ Base

08 - 16 ounces cream cheese, softened

# Directions:

01 - Rinse cranberries thoroughly and pulse in a food processor until coarsely chopped, ensuring they are not puréed.
02 - Combine chopped cranberries in a mixing bowl with diced jalapeños, sliced green onions, chopped cilantro, granulated sugar, lime juice, and salt. Stir until evenly incorporated.
03 - Cover the bowl and refrigerate the cranberry mixture for a minimum of 2 hours, or overnight, allowing flavors to develop and sugar to dissolve.
04 - Evenly spread the softened cream cheese onto a serving platter or shallow dish, creating a smooth base layer.
05 - Spoon the chilled cranberry-jalapeño mixture, including juices, over the cream cheese layer.
06 - Present with crackers, tortilla chips, or sliced baguette as preferred.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Easy to make and can be assembled ahead for convenience
  • Festive and eye-catching with bold cranberry color
  • Crowd-friendly and ideal for potlucks or family gatherings
  • Vegetarian and can be gluten-free depending on your crackers
  • Each bite delivers tangy sweetness with a gentle kick
02 -
  • Rich in antioxidants thanks to cranberries
  • A fun vegetarian appetizer that satisfies all taste buds
  • Can be made ahead and refrigerated overnight
03 -
  • Do not over-process the cranberries The chunky texture makes all the difference
  • If using a knife instead of a food processor chop cranberries slowly to avoid popping and juice stains
  • Always taste the jalapeño before adding Some are much hotter My trick is to start mild then taste as I go
  • A splash more lime juice boosts brightness and balance Use the freshest limes for zing
  • Try making your own crackers for an extra homemade touch Guests always notice

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