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

Scale

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