Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip

Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip is a vibrant, sweet-and-spicy appetizer that pairs the tartness of cranberries with the heat of jalapeños, all blended into a creamy, tangy base. This easy dip is perfect for holidays, parties, or anytime you want to impress with bold flavor and beautiful color.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dip is quick to make and combines contrasting flavors—sweet, spicy, tart, and creamy—for a deliciously addictive spread. It’s festive, colorful, and versatile, pairing wonderfully with crackers, chips, or fresh vegetables. The recipe uses simple ingredients and can be made ahead, making it ideal for entertaining.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup fresh cranberries
2–3 jalapeños, seeded and diced
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup chopped cilantro
1 tablespoon lime juice
Salt to taste

Directions

1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, cook the cranberries, stirring occasionally, until they begin to burst (about 5–7 minutes).

2. Add the diced jalapeños and honey. Simmer for another 3–4 minutes, then remove from heat and allow to cool.

3. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cooled cranberry mixture, cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Stir until smooth and well combined.

4. Transfer to a serving bowl and serve with crackers, chips, or fresh vegetables.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields about 8 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Add a splash of orange juice or zest for extra citrus flavor.

• Stir in a handful of finely chopped green onions for added depth.

• Use goat cheese or mascarpone in place of cream cheese for a different texture.

• Adjust jalapeños to taste for milder or spicier dip.

• Top with toasted pecans or walnuts for crunch.

Storage/reheating

Store leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Serve chilled or allow to come to room temperature before serving. This dip is not suitable for freezing, as the texture may change.

FAQs

Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?

Fresh cranberries are best for this recipe, but you can rehydrate dried cranberries in hot water if needed.

Is this dip very spicy?

It has a mild to moderate heat. Adjust the number of jalapeños to your taste.

Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. The flavors meld even better after chilling.

Can I serve the cranberry mixture on top of the cream cheese instead of mixing?

Yes, spread the cream cheese on a platter and spoon the cranberry mixture over the top for a layered presentation.

What can I serve with this dip?

Crackers, tortilla chips, pita chips, or sliced vegetables all pair well.

Can I use frozen cranberries?

Yes, thaw them first and drain any excess liquid.

How do I make this dip vegan?

Use a plant-based cream cheese alternative and maple syrup instead of honey.

Can I double the recipe for a larger group?

Absolutely, just scale up the ingredients proportionally.

What herbs can I use instead of cilantro?

Parsley or mint can be used for a different flavor profile.

Can I use bottled lime juice?

Fresh lime juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled can work in a pinch.

Conclusion

Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip is a festive, flavorful dip that combines sweet, spicy, and creamy elements in a crowd-pleasing way. Easy to prepare and full of color and taste, it’s the perfect addition to your holiday spread or party table.

Print