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This cranberry jalapeño dip is a bright and bold appetizer that always livens up gatherings. The mix of sweet tart cranberries with a spicy kick from jalapeños layered over creamy softened cream cheese is perfect for holiday parties or any casual get-together.
I put this together last minute for a friendsgiving and it became the star of the table everyone kept asking for the recipe
Ingredients
- Fresh cranberries: bring natural tartness choose firm and plump berries without bruises for best flavor
- Granulated sugar: balances the cranberries’ sharpness a fine, even sugar ensures it dissolves well
- Green onions: add mild savory crunch fresh bright green stalks are ideal
- Jalapeños: deliver the heat depending on tolerance seed them for milder spice or keep some seeds for punch
- Fresh cilantro: adds a fresh herbal note look for vibrant green leaves avoid wilted bunches
- Lime juice: provides acidity and brightness freshly squeezed juice beats bottled every time
- Salt: sharpens and rounds out flavors
- Cream cheese: offers creamy cooling base softened at room temperature for easy spreading
- Crackers or crostini: add the perfect crunchy element for serving pick sturdy options that won’t crumble
Instructions
- Build The Salsa:
- Add cranberries, sugar, green onions, jalapeños, cilantro, lime juice, and salt to your food processor. Pulse gently until everything is finely chopped but still chunky. Take care not to over-process or you will lose the texture that makes this salsa so enjoyable.
- Chill To Develop Flavor:
- Transfer the salsa into a bowl, cover tightly, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or even overnight if possible. This resting period lets all the flavors meld beautifully, mellowing the tart and spicy edges.
- Prepare The Cream Cheese Base:
- Place the block of cream cheese on a serving plate and allow it to soften at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This step ensures the cream cheese will be easy to spread or scoop onto crackers.
- Assemble The Dip:
- Once the salsa is chilled and the cream cheese has softened, spoon the salsa liberally over the cream cheese block. Let the assembled dip sit at room temperature for 5 to 10 minutes to allow it to warm slightly and meld further.
- Finish And Serve:
- Top with extra chopped cilantro or a sprinkle of lime zest for added freshness and visual appeal. Serve alongside crackers, tortilla chips, or toasted baguette slices for an irresistible spread your guests will love.
I love how the jalapeños add a casual heat that balances perfectly against the tart cranberries and creamy cheese. This dip always brings back family memories of holiday get-togethers where it was passed around and everyone competed for the last bite.
Storage tips
Store any leftover salsa in a covered container in the fridge for up to 3 days to keep the flavors fresh and vibrant. The cream cheese should be covered separately to avoid it absorbing stray fridge odors. If the salsa releases excess liquid, drain it before serving again to maintain perfect texture.
Ingredient swaps
You can swap fresh cranberries for frozen ones just thaw and drain before processing. If jalapeños are too spicy use a milder pepper like poblano or remove seeds carefully for less heat. Cream cheese can be replaced with a dairy-free spread or labneh for different flavor profiles.
Serving ideas
This dip pairs wonderfully with assorted crackers, tortilla chips or toasted breads. Try adding sliced radishes or cucumber rounds on the side for a fresh crunch. It is also excellent stuffed inside mini bell peppers for bite-sized appetizers.
This cranberry jalapeño salsa dip is a beautiful blend of sweet, spicy, and creamy ideal for celebrations or casual snacking. The fresh cranberry salsa with its lively texture contrasts perfectly with the smoothness of cream cheese creating a crowd-pleasing duo. Adjust the spice levels to taste and let it rest properly for best flavor results.
Frequently Asked Recipe Questions
- → How do you prepare the cranberry jalapeño topping?
Combine fresh cranberries, sugar, chopped jalapeños, green onions, cilantro, lime juice, and salt. Pulse gently until coarse but not pureed, creating a chunky salsa texture.
- → Why should the salsa be chilled before serving?
Chilling allows the flavors to meld and mellow, enhancing the balance between the tart cranberries and spicy jalapeños.
- → Can the heat level be adjusted?
Yes, use fewer jalapeños or remove seeds to reduce spiciness, or add more for extra heat according to preference.
- → What is the best way to serve this spread?
Spread or leave the softened cream cheese block on a plate and spoon the chilled salsa on top. Serve with crackers, chips, or toasted bread slices.
- → Any tips for handling jalapeños safely?
Wear gloves when chopping jalapeños to avoid skin irritation and accidental eye contact with the spicy oils.