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Christmas cranberry jalapeno dip, a party-perfect appetizer featuring vibrant cranberries, spicy jalapenos, and creamy cheese, is ready to be served in a festive bowl.

Cranberry Jalapeno Dip Perfection

This Cranberry Jalapeno Dip is the perfect appetizer for any holiday gathering. It combines the sweetness of cranberries with the heat of jalapenos and the creaminess of cream cheese, creating a flavor explosion that's both festive and addictive.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 10
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150

Ingredients
  

  • 12 ounces fresh cranberries
  • 2-3 jalapenos, seeded and minced
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro optional
  • Crackers, tortilla chips, or baguette slices for serving

Equipment

  • Food processor or knife
  • cutting board
  • knife
  • Large bowl
  • measuring cups and spoons
  • Plastic wrap
  • Serving bowl

Method
 

  1. Rinse the cranberries under cold water and remove any soft ones.
  2. Chop the cranberries coarsely in a food processor or with a knife.
  3. Slice the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes for a milder flavor. Finely dice the jalapenos.
  4. In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped cranberries, diced jalapenos, chopped green onions, lime juice, sugar, and cilantro (if using).
  5. Stir well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined and there are no lumps of cream cheese.
  6. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 days, to allow the flavors to meld.
  7. Before serving, give the dip a good stir.
  8. Serve with your favorite crackers, tortilla chips, baguette slices, or pretzels.

Notes

Adjust the heat by using milder jalapenos or removing all the seeds and membranes. Sweeten to taste with additional sugar if needed. For added crunch, consider incorporating chopped pecans or walnuts. This dip can be made 1-2 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Do not freeze. For a cranberry-orange twist, add the zest of one orange.