Cranberry jalapeno cream cheese dip
This Cranberry Jalapeno Cream Cheese Dip is a delightful mix of tangy cranberries, spicy jalapenos, and smooth cream cheese that comes together in perfect harmony. It’s got that cool and…
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This Cranberry Jalapeno Cream Cheese Dip is a delightful mix of tangy cranberries, spicy jalapenos, and smooth cream cheese that comes together in perfect harmony. It’s got that cool and creamy texture, with just enough kick from the jalapenos to keep things interesting without overwhelming your taste buds.
I love making this dip whenever we have friends over because it’s always such a crowd-pleaser. The sweet and spicy combo surprises people in the best way, and it’s incredibly easy to whip up. One tip I’ve picked up is to finely chop the jalapenos so they’re evenly spread throughout, giving each bite a little bit of heat.
My favorite way to serve this dip is with sturdy crackers or sliced baguette, but it also works great with fresh veggies like cucumber or bell pepper strips. It’s perfect for holiday parties or casual get-togethers, and I find myself reaching for it again and again because it’s just that good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: This is the creamy base that gives the dip its smooth texture. I like to use full-fat cream cheese for the best flavor, but you can try light cream cheese to cut calories if you prefer.
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries add a bright tartness and beautiful color. Frozen works fine too, just thaw before using. If cranberries aren’t available, chopped dried cranberries mixed with a little water can be a good substitute.
Jalapenos: They bring the heat and a bit of crunch. If you want less spice, remove all seeds and membranes, or swap for milder peppers like poblano or banana pepper.
Fresh Herbs: Chives and rosemary add a fresh, herbal note that brightens the dip. If you don’t have fresh, dried herbs can be used, but reduce the amount since they’re more concentrated.
Honey or Maple Syrup: This optional touch balances the tart and spicy flavors. If you prefer it less sweet, you can leave it out or reduce the quantity.
How Do I Make Sure the Cranberry Jalapeno Mix Has the Right Texture?
A key technique is finely chopping the cranberry and jalapeno mixture without turning it into a puree. Here’s what works well:
- Use a food processor and pulse in short bursts. This keeps the mix chunky.
- Check frequently to avoid over-processing.
- If you don’t have a food processor, chop everything finely by hand with a sharp knife.
- This chunky texture gives nice bursts of flavor and makes the dip more interesting to eat.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl – big enough to whip the cream cheese smooth and mix ingredients easily.
- Hand mixer or whisk – makes cream cheese creamy without lumps. A whisk works fine if you don’t have a mixer.
- Food processor or sharp knife – quick way to chop cranberries, jalapenos, and herbs finely for even flavor.
- Spreading knife or spoon – to spread the cream cheese and spoon on the cranberry mixture neatly.
- Serving dish or shallow bowl – to show off the layered dip and keep things tidy on the table.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add crumbled feta or goat cheese for a tangy, creamy twist that pairs well with the cranberries’ tartness.
- Swap jalapenos for milder peppers like poblano if you want just a little heat without it being spicy.
- Stir in chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch and a nutty flavor contrast.
- Mix in a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to bring out warm, cozy flavors—great for holiday parties.
How to Make Cranberry Jalapeno Cream Cheese Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Dip:
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1-2 jalapeno peppers, seeded and finely chopped (adjust to heat preference)
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped (plus extra sprigs for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for slight sweetness)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Assorted crackers or sliced baguette, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dip takes about 10 minutes to prepare. There’s no cooking required, so once everything is mixed, it’s ready to serve right away—great for last-minute parties or easy snacks!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Cream Cheese Base:
Start by beating the softened cream cheese in a mixing bowl until smooth and creamy. Use a hand mixer or simply a whisk if you don’t have one — the goal is a lovely, soft texture with no lumps.
2. Prepare the Cranberry Jalapeno Mix:
In a food processor, pulse the cranberries, jalapenos, chives, and rosemary just until they’re finely chopped but still chunky. You want the mix to be vibrant and textured, not pureed. If you don’t have a food processor, finely chop everything by hand.
3. Add Sweetness and Season:
Stir in the honey or maple syrup if you like a bit of sweetness to balance the tartness. Season the cream cheese with salt and black pepper to taste.
4. Assemble the Dip:
Spread the cream cheese evenly in a serving dish or shallow bowl. Then spoon the cranberry and jalapeno mixture on top, pressing lightly so it sticks.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Top with a few sprigs of fresh rosemary for a festive look. Serve your dip right away alongside crackers, baguette slices, or fresh veggies for dipping. Enjoy the fresh, tangy, and spicy flavors!
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries in This Dip?
Yes, frozen cranberries work well! Just thaw them fully and pat dry to reduce excess moisture before chopping and mixing with the other ingredients.
How Spicy Is This Dip?
The heat depends on how many jalapenos you use and whether you include the seeds. For milder dip, remove all seeds or use just one jalapeno. For more heat, add seeds or extra jalapeno.
Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the dip and store it covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Give it a gentle stir before serving to freshen it up.
What’s the Best Way to Serve This Dip?
This dip pairs great with sturdy crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh veggies like cucumber and bell peppers that can scoop up all the flavorful layers easily.
