Print

Cozy Jalapeño Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip – Easy Holiday Appetizer

jalapeño cranberry cream cheese dip - featured image
Print Recipe

This creamy, tangy dip features sweet-tart cranberries and a warm kick from roasted jalapeños, all blended into a smooth cream cheese base. Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights, it comes together in under 30 minutes with simple ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 16 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 1 cup fresh cranberries (about 4 ounces), rinsed and picked over
  • 2 medium jalapeño peppers, seeded and finely diced
  • 3 tablespoons honey
  • 1 teaspoon orange zest (from 1 medium orange)
  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
  • ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
  • ¼ cup toasted pecans, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. In a small saucepan, combine the fresh cranberries, honey, orange juice, and orange zest. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, then reduce heat to low. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries have burst and the mixture has thickened slightly. Remove from heat and let cool for at least 10 minutes.
  2. While the cranberries cool, heat a small dry skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced jalapeño (without oil) and toast for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant and slightly charred. Transfer to a plate to cool.
  3. In a medium mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer on medium speed until smooth and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl. Add the garlic powder, salt, and cayenne (if using), and beat for another 30 seconds.
  4. Using a rubber spatula, gently fold the cooled cranberry mixture and the toasted jalapeño into the cream cheese. Fold just until evenly distributed, about 8-10 strokes.
  5. Spoon the dip into a serving bowl or pie plate and spread into an even layer. Create swirls on top with the back of the spatula.
  6. Sprinkle with chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, and toasted pecans. Serve immediately at room temperature, or cover and refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.

Notes

Don’t skip toasting the jalapeño—it mellows the heat and adds smoky sweetness. Let the cranberry mixture cool completely before folding into cream cheese to avoid a soupy dip. Room temperature cream cheese is essential for a smooth texture. If the dip seems too loose, it will firm up as it sits; if too thick, stir in a tablespoon of cranberry cooking liquid or milk.

Nutrition

Keywords: jalapeño cranberry cream cheese dip, holiday appetizer, easy dip, cream cheese dip, cranberry jalapeño dip

Find it online: https://spoonmira.com/cozy-jalape-n-o-cranberry-cream-cheese-dip-easy-holiday-appetizer/