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Cranberry Jalapeno Dip

Cranberry Jalapeno Dip - recipe card
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A festive, creamy dip with a sweet-tart cranberry-jalapeno topping that contrasts beautifully with the smooth, rich cream cheese base. The heat from the jalapeno is balanced by the sweetness of the cranberries and a hint of lime, making it an irresistible appetizer for any gathering.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
  • 1/4 tsp kosher salt
  • 1 cup fresh cranberries, finely chopped
  • 1 jalapeno, stemmed, seeded, and finely minced (about 2 tbsp)
  • 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 1/8 tsp kosher salt
  • Tortilla chips or crackers, for serving

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, lime juice, and 1/4 tsp kosher salt. Use a hand mixer or a sturdy spatula to beat until the mixture is completely smooth and fluffy, about 1 minute. This ensures a lump-free base that spreads easily.
  2. In a separate small bowl, stir together the finely chopped cranberries, minced jalapeno, chopped cilantro, sugar, and 1/8 tsp kosher salt. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes to allow the sugar to draw out the cranberry juices and meld the flavors; it should look glossy and slightly syrupy.
  3. Taste the cranberry mixture and adjust the heat if desired: for more kick, add a pinch of the reserved jalapeno seeds; for less, stir in a teaspoon of sugar. Keep in mind that the heat will mellow slightly after chilling.
  4. Transfer the cream cheese mixture to a serving bowl or a shallow platter and spread it into an even layer about 1/2 inch thick, creating a slight well in the center if you like. Spoon the cranberry-jalapeno mixture over the top, spreading it gently to cover the cream cheese completely, leaving a 1-inch border for visual contrast.
  5. Cover the dip with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to marry and the dip to firm up slightly. This resting time also makes the colors pop and the texture easier to scoop.
  6. Just before serving, garnish with a few whole cranberries and a sprig of cilantro if desired. Serve chilled with tortilla chips or crackers alongside. The dip is best enjoyed within 2 hours of assembly for peak freshness.

Notes

Storage: Store leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cranberry topping may release some juice; simply stir before serving. Freezing is not recommended, as the cream cheese mixture can become watery upon thawing. Reheating: This dip is served cold; do not reheat. For advance prep, the cream cheese base and the cranberry mixture can be made separately up to 24 hours ahead and stored in the refrigerator; assemble just before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: cranberry jalapeno dip, cranberry dip, jalapeno cream cheese dip, holiday appetizer, party dip, no-cook dip, quick appetizer, sweet and spicy dip, cream cheese dip, fresh cranberry salsa, easy holiday recipe

Find it online: https://inagartencooks.com/cranberry-jalapeno-dip/