Name: Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup cranberry sauce; 1–2 jalapeños, finely chopped; 1/4 cup green onions, chopped; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper

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Introduction

This Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip perfectly balances creamy, spicy, and sweet flavors in one easy-to-make appetizer. It’s a festive crowd-pleaser ideal for holiday gatherings or any party.

A white bowl filled with a creamy, light beige dip as the base layer, topped with a thick layer of bright red pomegranate seeds scattered generously and mixed with chopped green herbs. There are small spots of dark brown seasoning sprinkled across the top for added texture. A woman's hand is holding a toasted white bread slice dipped with some of the creamy dip and pomegranate seeds on it. On the white marbled surface beside the bowl, there are several toasted bread slices stacked loosely and a small white bowl filled with sliced green jalapeños. The image is bright with soft sunlight casting clear shadows. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup cranberry sauce
1–2 jalapeños, finely chopped
1/4 cup green onions, chopped
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy to form the base of your dip.
Step 2: Add the cranberry sauce, finely chopped jalapeños, chopped green onions, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to the bowl.
Step 3: Stir all the ingredients together thoroughly until the mixture is consistent and well combined.
Step 4: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the dip for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the dip to firm up slightly.
Step 5: Serve chilled with crackers, chips, or fresh vegetables for a tasty appetizer everyone will love.

Tips & Variations

Adjust the number of jalapeños to control the spice level to your preference.
For a smoother dip, blend the mixture briefly after combining all ingredients.
Prepare the dip a day ahead and refrigerate for easier entertaining and enhanced flavor.
Use homemade cranberry sauce made with fresh cranberries and sugar for a fresh twist.
To make this dip dairy-free, substitute the cream cheese with a vegan cream cheese alternative.

Storage

Store the dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Before serving, give it a good stir and chill again if needed. This dip is best enjoyed cold but can be brought to room temperature for about 10 minutes for easier spreading.

How to Serve

In a white bowl on a white marbled surface, there is a creamy white cheese spread forming the bottom layer with a thick, soft texture. On top of this, bright red shiny pomegranate seeds mixed with chopped green herbs and scallions add a fresh, colorful layer. Two toasted slices of bread with a golden brown crust and airy soft interior rest on the side of the bowl, one scoop of cheese and pomegranate mixture is spread on one slice. In the background, there is another white bowl with sliced green jalapeños. The scene has a bright and fresh look. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh jalapeños instead of canned or pickled?

Yes, fresh jalapeños work best for a bright and spicy flavor. Simply wash, de-seed if less heat is desired, and finely chop before adding.

What can I serve with this dip?

This dip pairs wonderfully with crackers, tortilla chips, sliced baguette, or fresh veggies like celery, carrots, and bell peppers for a colorful, tasty spread.