Description
This vibrant and tangy Cranberry Jalapeno Cream Cheese Dip combines fresh cranberries, spicy jalapeno peppers, and smooth whipped cream cheese to create a perfect festive appetizer. It’s easy to prepare, requires no cooking, and develops richer flavors after resting, making it ideal for holiday gatherings and parties.
Ingredients
Relish Mixture
- 6 oz fresh cranberries
- 1 small jalapeno pepper, seeded and membranes removed
- 1 green onion (scallion), white and part of green top, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
- ½ tsp sea salt
Cream Cheese Base
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened at room temperature
Instructions
- Prepare Cranberries: Rinse the cranberries thoroughly, discarding any that are mushy or damaged. Pat them dry with a clean towel to remove excess moisture.
- Process Relish Ingredients: Place the cranberries into a blender or food processor and pulse until they are broken into smaller pieces but not completely pureed. Add the seeded jalapeno, trimmed green onion, granulated sugar, fresh lime juice, and sea salt. Pulse again until everything is finely chopped and combined. Use a spoon to scrape down the sides as needed for even processing.
- Whip Cream Cheese: Transfer the softened cream cheese to a large bowl. Using an electric mixer, whip the cream cheese until it becomes smooth, creamy, and fluffy, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Combine Mixtures: Spoon the cranberry-jalapeno relish mixture into the whipped cream cheese. Gently fold and mix together until thoroughly blended and evenly distributed.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the dip bowl with plastic wrap or a lid. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and intensify. Taste before serving and adjust the sweetness by adding more sugar if desired.
Notes
- The dip’s flavor improves the longer it sits, so prepare it ahead of time for best results.
- Removing jalapeno seeds and membranes reduces heat; keep them in if you prefer a spicier dip.
- Serve with crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetables as a festive appetizer.
- Softening cream cheese at room temperature ensures easier whipping and smoother texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: American
