10-Minute Cranberry Jalapeno Dip Recipe
Introduction
This 10-Minute Cranberry Jalapeno Dip is a vibrant and flavorful appetizer perfect for any gathering. Creamy, spicy, and slightly sweet, it combines dairy-free cream cheese with fresh jalapeños and tangy cranberry sauce for a delicious layered treat.
Ingredients
- 2 8 oz containers dairy-free cream cheese (such as Kite Hill) or regular cream cheese
- 2 fresh jalapeños, seeds removed and finely diced
- 2–3 tablespoons finely diced red onion
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 lime, juiced
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 14 oz can cranberry sauce (with whole berries)
Instructions
- Step 1: Bring the cream cheese to room temperature, then whip it using a handheld mixer until smooth and fluffy. Add the garlic powder, salt, pepper, lime juice, diced jalapeños, and diced green and red onions. Mix until well combined.
- Step 2: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly on a serving platter of your choice.
- Step 3: Spoon the cranberry sauce over the cream cheese layer and spread gently to cover the surface.
- Step 4: Garnish with additional chopped green onions and serve with your favorite crackers.
Tips & Variations
- If you prefer less heat, reduce the jalapeños or leave the seeds in for extra spice.
- For a nutty twist, sprinkle chopped toasted pecans or walnuts over the cranberry layer before serving.
- Use regular cream cheese if you don’t need a dairy-free option; it works just as well.
- Try adding a pinch of smoked paprika for an extra smoky flavor.
Storage
Store the dip covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, keep the cranberry sauce separate until just before serving if preparing in advance. Reheat is not recommended, serve chilled or at room temperature.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cream cheese mixture in advance and refrigerate it. Add the cranberry sauce layer and garnish just before serving to keep it fresh.
What can I serve with this dip?
This dip pairs wonderfully with assorted crackers, tortilla chips, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetable sticks like celery and bell peppers.
Print
10-Minute Cranberry Jalapeno Dip Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This 10-Minute Cranberry Jalapeno Dip is a vibrant and delicious appetizer combining creamy dairy-free or regular cream cheese with spicy jalapeños, tangy lime juice, and sweet cranberry sauce. Perfect for holiday gatherings or casual snacking, this easy-to-make dip delivers a perfect balance of flavors with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Base
- 2 (8 oz) containers dairy-free cream cheese (such as Kite Hill) or regular cream cheese
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 2 fresh jalapeños, seeds removed and finely diced
- 2–3 tablespoons finely diced red onion
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions (plus extra for garnish)
Seasonings
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1/2 lime
Topping
- 1 (14 oz) can cranberry sauce with whole berries
Instructions
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture: Bring the cream cheese containers to room temperature to ensure easy whipping. Using a handheld mixer, whip the cream cheese until it achieves a light, fluffy texture similar to whipped cream. This will create a smooth base for the dip.
- Add Flavorings: To the whipped cream cheese, add the garlic powder, salt, pepper, lime juice, diced jalapeños, finely diced red onion, and green onions. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly combined, distributing the spicy, tangy, and savory flavors throughout.
- Assemble the Dip Base: Transfer the cream cheese mixture to your preferred serving platter. Spread it evenly into a flat layer, creating a smooth surface for the cranberry topping.
- Top with Cranberry Sauce: Spoon the canned cranberry sauce over the cream cheese layer, spreading it gently with a spoon. This sweet and slightly tart topping contrasts beautifully with the creamy and spicy base.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle additional chopped green onions on top for an extra pop of color and flavor. Serve immediately with your choice of crackers or dipping items. Enjoy this easy, flavorful dip at any gathering!
Notes
- You can use regular cream cheese if dairy-free is not a requirement.
- Adjust the number of jalapeños or remove seeds more thoroughly if you prefer less heat.
- For a smoother texture, finely chop onions very small or pulse briefly in a food processor.
- This dip is best served fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours; bring to room temperature before serving.
- Pairs well with crackers, baguette slices, or fresh vegetable sticks.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: cranberry dip, jalapeno dip, dairy-free dip, holiday appetizer, easy appetizer, quick dip, cream cheese dip, sweet and spicy dip
