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- 8 oz cream cheese, softened - 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought) - 1 small jalapeño, finely diced (seeds removed for less heat) - 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder - 1/4 teaspoon salt - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper This dip starts with cream cheese. It gives a smooth and rich base. Next, we add cranberry sauce. This brings a sweet and tangy flavor. The jalapeño adds a nice kick. Remember to remove the seeds for less heat. Green onions add freshness and crunch. Garlic powder, salt, and black pepper enhance the taste. - 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese - Fresh cilantro for garnish Cheddar cheese is optional but adds creaminess. It also boosts the flavor. Fresh cilantro makes a great garnish. It adds color and a touch of herbaceousness. You can mix and match these ingredients as you like. {{ingredient_image_1}} Mixing the Cream Cheese and Cranberry Sauce Start with 8 ounces of softened cream cheese. Add 1/2 cup of cranberry sauce to a mixing bowl. Use a hand mixer or spatula to blend them until smooth. Incorporating Additional Ingredients Next, finely dice 1 small jalapeño and remove the seeds if you want less heat. Add the jalapeño to the bowl. Then, chop 1/4 cup of green onions and toss them in too. Add 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Stir everything together until well mixed. Folding in Cheddar Cheese (if using) If you like extra creaminess, fold in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. This step is optional but adds great flavor and texture. Transferring to a Serving Bowl Once mixed, transfer the dip to a serving bowl. Use a spatula to smooth the top for a nice look. Garnishing with Cilantro For a fresh touch, garnish with chopped cilantro. It adds color and flavor, making the dish pop. Suggested Serving Accompaniments Serve your dip with crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetable sticks. This adds crunch and makes it fun to eat! Using Fresh Ingredients Using fresh ingredients makes a big difference. Fresh cream cheese gives a rich taste. Fresh cranberries can add a bright zing. I love homemade cranberry sauce for its sweet and tart flavor. Always use fresh jalapeños for a better kick. Adjusting Spice Levels with Jalapeños If you like heat, keep the seeds in the jalapeño. For less heat, remove the seeds. You can also try using less jalapeño. Start with a small amount and taste as you go. This way, you find your perfect heat level. Incorporating Cheddar Cheese Adding cheddar cheese gives the dip a nice twist. It adds both creaminess and flavor. Use sharp cheddar for a bolder taste. Fold it in after mixing other ingredients. This keeps the dip smooth and creamy. Achieving Creaminess To make the dip extra creamy, use softened cream cheese. Mixing well is key. A hand mixer can help blend everything smoothly. If you want, add a splash of milk. This makes it even creamier without changing the flavor. Pro Tips Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a milder dip, ensure to remove all the seeds and white membranes from the jalapeño, or substitute with a milder pepper. Homemade Cranberry Sauce: For a fresh twist, consider using homemade cranberry sauce; it adds a more vibrant flavor compared to store-bought versions. Chill for Flavor: Allowing the dip to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes enhances the melding of flavors, making the dip even more delicious. Serving Suggestions: Pair with a variety of dippers such as pita chips, pretzels, or even apple slices for a sweet and savory combination. {{image_2}} You can easily change the taste of your Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip. Adding spices can give it a kick. Try a pinch of cayenne for heat or smoked paprika for a smoky taste. These small changes make a big difference. Incorporating nuts or fruits can also bring new flavors. Chopped pecans or walnuts add crunch. Diced apples or pears offer a sweet contrast to the heat. Get creative and find what you like best! If you want a vegan option, use a vegan cream cheese substitute. Many brands offer great taste and texture. This way, everyone can enjoy the dip. For gluten-free serving suggestions, serve the dip with rice crackers or veggie sticks. Both options are tasty and safe for those with gluten issues. Enjoying this dip can be done by all! To keep your Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip fresh, store it correctly. - Refrigeration Instructions: Place the dip in an airtight container. This prevents it from absorbing other smells. Keep it in the fridge right after serving. It stays fresh and tasty for later enjoyment. - Freezing the Dip: You can freeze the dip if you want to save some for later. Use a freezer-safe container. Make sure to leave some space at the top. The dip will expand as it freezes. - How Long It Lasts in the Fridge: Your dip is good for about 3 to 5 days in the fridge. Make sure it stays sealed tightly to maintain its flavor and texture. - Signs of Spoilage: Check for changes in smell or color. If it smells sour or has an off-color, it’s best to toss it out. Always trust your senses. If in doubt, throw it out! Can I make this dip ahead of time? Yes, you can make this dip ahead of time. Just mix all the ingredients and store it in the fridge. It tastes even better after chilling for a few hours. What can I substitute for jalapeños? You can use bell peppers for a milder flavor. If you want some heat, try using diced serrano peppers. Adjust the amount based on your taste. How can I make it less spicy? To reduce the spice, remove the seeds from the jalapeño before dicing. You can also use less jalapeño in your mix. Another option is to add more cream cheese to balance the heat. What to serve with Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip? This dip pairs well with crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh veggie sticks. You can create a colorful platter for your guests. Is this dip suitable for gluten-free diets? Yes, this dip is gluten-free. Just ensure you serve it with gluten-free crackers or veggies. Always check labels to be safe! This blog post covered how to make a tasty Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip. We explored key ingredients, like cream cheese and jalapeños, plus optional adds like cheddar. You learned how to prepare, serve, and enhance this dish. Remember to store it properly for the best flavor. With these tips and ideas, you’ll impress everyone at your next gathering. Enjoy making this dip your own and share it with friends!

Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip

A creamy and spicy dip featuring cranberry and jalapeño, perfect for gatherings.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 150 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
  • 1 small jalapeño, finely diced (seeds removed for less heat)
  • 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
  • to taste fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions
 

  • In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and cranberry sauce. Use a hand mixer or a spatula to mix until well blended and smooth.
  • Add the finely diced jalapeño, chopped green onions, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to the cream cheese mixture. Stir until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
  • If you’re adding cheddar cheese, fold it into the dip at this stage for an extra creamy texture and flavor.
  • Transfer the dip to a serving bowl. Use a spatula to smooth the top.
  • Garnish with fresh cilantro for a pop of color and flavor.
  • Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

Serve with an assortment of crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetable sticks.
Keyword appetizer, cranberry, cream cheese, dip, jalapeño