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–+ servings
A shallow white serving dish filled with creamy cranberry jalapeño cream cheese dip, topped with glossy chopped cranberries, jalapeños, and cilantro. Surrounded by crackers and holiday greenery in a rustic farmhouse setting.

Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip

This Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip is the perfect sweet, tart, and spicy holiday appetizer. Fresh cranberries, diced jalapeños, and lime are spooned over a creamy whipped cream cheese layer to create a festive dip your guests will love. Serve it with crackers, crostini, or pretzel crisps for an easy Christmas party appetizer or Thanksgiving starter that comes together in minutes.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Chill Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Servings 12
Calories 207 kcal

Equipment

  • Food processor or sharp knife
  • Mixing bowls
  • Hand mixer or spatula
  • Serving dish or platter
  • Plastic wriap for chilling

Ingredients
  

For the cranberry topping:

  • 12 oz fresh cranberries
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1-2 jalapeños seeded and finely diced
  • ¼ cup cilantro finely chopped
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Pinch of salt

For the cream cheese base:

  • 16 oz cream cheese softened
  • ½ cup sour cream optional but makes it extra creamy
  • 1 tsp garlic powder

Instructions
 

  • Add your cranberries to a food processor and pulse until finely chopped. You want them minced, not pureed.
  • In a large bowl, stir together the chopped cranberries, sugar, jalapeños, cilantro, lime juice, and salt. Mix well and let it rest for at least 1 hour so the flavors can meld.
  • In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and garlic powder until smooth and creamy.
  • Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly onto a serving platter. Spoon the cranberry jalapeño mixture over the top, allowing some juices to drip over the edges for beautiful color.
  • Refrigerate for 1–2 hours before serving to allow the layers to set. Serve with Ritz crackers, tortilla chips, pretzel crisps, crostini, or veggies. Enjoy! 😋

Notes

Nutritional values provided are estimates only and are calculated based on general nutritional data for the listed ingredients. Actual values may vary depending on the specific brands, measurements, and preparation methods used. For precise dietary information, please consult a registered dietitian or use a verified nutrition calculator with the exact ingredients you use.

Nutrition

Serving: 0.33cCalories: 207kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 2gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7.5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.8gMonounsaturated Fat: 3.8gCholesterol: 38mgSodium: 165mgPotassium: 82mgFiber: 2gSugar: 22gVitamin A: 425IUVitamin C: 7mgCalcium: 53mgIron: 0.2mg
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