This fun cranberry jalapeño dip is a sweet and spicy treat that will make your taste buds dance! It’s perfect for holiday gatherings or any festive occasion.
Mixing cream cheese with tangy cranberries and a kick of jalapeño creates a delicious dip that’s hard to resist. I love serving it with crackers or veggies—it disappears fast!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: This is the heart of the dip, providing creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try Neufchâtel cheese. For a vegan option, you can substitute with dairy-free cream cheese made from nuts or soy.
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries are best for this recipe, but you can use frozen ones if fresh aren’t available. Just thaw them before use. Dried cranberries will work too, but they’ll give a sweeter flavor.
Jalapeño: This adds a nice heat. If you’re not a fan of spice, opt for a milder pepper like a bell pepper or a small amount of crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of heat without being overwhelming.
Honey or Maple Syrup: Both add a touch of sweetness. For vegan options, maple syrup is great, but agave syrup can also work well. You can adjust the sweetness to your taste!
How Do I Prepare the Jalapeño Without the Heat Overpowering the Dip?
When using jalapeños, control the heat by removing the seeds and membrane inside, where most of the spice is concentrated. Here’s how:
- Cut the jalapeño in half lengthwise.
- Use a small spoon to scoop out the seeds and the white membrane.
- Finely chop the remaining pepper before adding it to your dip, so it mixes evenly.
Start with a small amount of chopped jalapeño to see how much heat you like, and you can always add more later!
Cranberry Jalapeño Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup fresh cranberries, roughly chopped
- 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh whole cranberries (for garnish)
- Crackers or toasted bread slices, for serving
- Fresh rosemary sprigs (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dip takes about 15 minutes to prepare. You can serve it immediately or chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes for the flavors to meld together perfectly.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl, take your softened cream cheese and add half of the chopped cranberries, the finely chopped jalapeño, the chopped parsley, the honey (or maple syrup), and the lemon juice. Mix everything together until it’s smooth and well blended. Take a moment to taste it and adjust the salt and pepper as needed.
2. Shape the Dip:
Now, scoop the cream cheese mixture into a serving dish. You can shape it into a block or a nice mound—whatever you prefer! Just make sure it looks inviting.
3. Add More Cranberries:
Next, sprinkle the remaining chopped cranberries on top of your cream cheese formation. Press them gently into the top so they stick well. This will give your dip a vibrant look and a burst of flavor.
4. Garnish for Style:
For an extra touch, you can garnish the plate around the dip with whole fresh cranberries and a few fresh rosemary sprigs if you’d like. This adds a festive touch that is sure to impress your guests!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Chill your dip for a bit, if you want, or serve it right away with a side of crackers or toasted bread slices. This dip is best enjoyed fresh, so dive in and enjoy the tangy, sweet, and spicy goodness!
Can I Use Dried Cranberries Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use dried cranberries if fresh ones aren’t available. Just keep in mind that dried cranberries will add extra sweetness, so adjust the honey or maple syrup accordingly to balance the flavors.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors may meld together even more, making it just as delicious the next time you enjoy it!
Can I Make This Dip Spicier?
Absolutely! To increase the heat, you can leave some seeds from the jalapeño or add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes. Adjust according to your spice tolerance!
What Can I Serve This Dip With?
This dip pairs wonderfully with a variety of items! Try it with crackers, toasted bread slices, fresh veggies like carrots and celery, or even pretzel bites for a fun and tasty snack.