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Spicy Cranberry Jalapeno Cream Cheese Dip is pictured as the featured image for the recipe.

Amazing Spicy Cranberry Jalapeno Cream Cheese Dip

This festive cream cheese dip combines the creamy coolness of cream cheese with the sweet-tart flavor of cranberries and a spicy kick from jalapenos. It's an easy-to-make appetizer that's perfect for holiday gatherings and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 7 minutes
Total Time 22 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 200
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries, roughly chopped
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1-2 jalapenos, seeded and finely diced
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
  • Crackers, tortilla chips, baguette slices, or vegetables for serving

Equipment

  • Small saucepan
  • Medium bowl
  • Electric mixer
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cutting board
  • Knife
  • Plastic wrap
  • Serving bowl

Method
 

  1. In a small saucepan, combine the chopped cranberries, sugar, and water.
  2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
  3. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the cranberries have burst and the mixture has thickened slightly. You want a jam-like consistency, but not too thick.
  4. Remove from heat and let the cranberry mixture cool completely.
  5. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
  6. Gently fold in the cooled cranberry mixture, diced jalapenos, green onions, cilantro, lime juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper into the cream cheese.
  7. Mix until everything is well combined. Don't overmix, or the cream cheese can become thin.
  8. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
  9. Transfer the Spicy Cranberry Jalapeno Cream Cheese Dip to a serving bowl.
  10. Serve with your favorite crackers, tortilla chips, baguette slices, or raw vegetables.

Notes

Adjust the spice level by using more or fewer jalapenos, or by removing the seeds and membranes. For a sweeter dip, drizzle with honey or maple syrup. Store the dip in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld together and intensify over time.