Cream cheese cranberry jalapeno dip is a must make, especially during the holiday season. It starts with a creamy base topped with a delicious mix of sweet, tart cranberries and just the right amount of mild jalapeno heat. It’s a flavor combination that is both festive and irresistible.

 

I have been making this for years and it’s always one of the number one appetizers my family requests during the holidays. The first time I made it, my husband ended up eating almost the entire thing before our guests arrived.

If you are wanting to really impress family and friends this year, I recommend trying this cranberry jalapeno dip. It’s one of my personal favorites, with the blend of sweet, savory, and the hint of spicy. Trust me, this is a holiday recipe that people will remember and will be requesting the recipe.

If you have more cranberries around this holiday season, be sure to try this cranberry cheesecake dip, cranberry upside down cake, cranberry jello salad, and cranberry mocktail.

Why you will love this dip

• Amazing flavor and texture. Creamy, crunchy texture with a sweet and tart taste. This recipe is bursting with flavor!
• Festive. Not only is this appetizer delicious, it’s also beautiful. The red cranberries mixed with the green jalapenos and cilantro make this perfect for the holiday table.
• Something different. This isn’t your ordinary appetizer. It’s a special dip that is sure to wow your crowd.

Ingredients

• Whole cranberries – One regular size bag of whole, fresh cranberries work well. You can’t use frozen cranberries.
• Jalapenos – This adds a nice, mild heat that complements to the sweetness of the dish.
• Cream cheese – You will need 2, 8 ounce blocks of softened cream cheese.
• Sugar – Brings out the flavor of the cranberries.
• Green onion – Adds color and flavor.
• Cilantro – This adds more color and flavor. It is optional if you don’t like cilantro.
• Chili powder – Add a little smokiness to the dip.

How to make cranberry jalapeno dip

Scroll down to watch video and get the full, printable recipe and ingredients. 

1. Chop: Chop the cranberries in a food processor, blender, or with a knife. Make sure not to over-chop them because they will liquify.

2. Mix: Stir together the chopped cranberries, jalapenos, green onion, cilantro, sugar, lemon juice, and chili powder. Cover the mixture and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight. This helps the flavors come together.

3. Assemble: When ready to make, whip the softened cream cheese with a mixer. Spread the cream cheese in a pie dish or serving dish. Spread the cranberry mixture over the cream cheese.

4. Store in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Heather’s recipe tips

• Heat level. If you would like more heat, feel free to add another chopped jalapeno. If you prefer no heat, you can omit the jalapeno pepper and replace with a small green bell pepper.
• Soften the cream cheese. Make sure to let the cream cheese soften at room temperature. This helps to get a creamy consistency.
• Make ahead of time. I recommend making the cranberry topping the night before serving if possible. It really helps to let the flavors come together.
• Avoid getting soggy. To avoid the cream cheese getting too soggy, use a slotted spoon to scoop up the cranberry mixture when placing it on the cream cheese.

How to serve cranberry jalapeno dip recipe

This dip can be served with a variety of crackers, vegetables, toast, or even vanilla wafer cookies.

I also have used this dip on turkey sandwiches and on top of a toasted bagel for breakfast, yum!

Storage

Store the cream cheese dip covered in the refrigerator. You can cover with plastic wrap or a lid. The sugar in this dip brings out the juice in the cranberries so it can start to become soggy after 3 days.

Frequently asked questions

More delicious dip recipes

• Crack dip – Creamy dip with ranch seasoning, bacon, and cheese.
• Chipped beef dip – Chopped chipped beef mixed with cream cheese, spices, and green onion.
• Caramel apple dip – A delicious dessert dip with sweet cream cheese base.
• Knorr dip – A classic dip made with Knorr vegetable mix.
• Boursin dip – Boursin cheese covered with fig jam and bacon.
• Toffee apple dip – A super simple dip made with toffee bits.

If you made this cranberry dip, feel free to leave a comment below.