10-Minute Cranberry Jalapeño Dip Recipe
Introduction
This 10-Minute Cranberry Jalapeño Dip is a deliciously tangy and spicy appetizer that’s perfect for any gathering. Creamy whipped cream cheese blends beautifully with zesty jalapeños and sweet cranberry sauce for a unique and crowd-pleasing flavor combination.
Ingredients
- 2 (8 oz) containers dairy-free cream cheese (such as Kite Hill) or regular cream cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 lime, juiced
- 2 fresh jalapeños, seeds removed and finely diced
- 2-3 Tbsp finely diced red onion
- 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 for easier whipping. Use a handheld mixer to whip the cream cheese until it becomes fluffy and smooth.
- Step 2: Add garlic powder, salt, pepper, lime juice, diced jalapeños, red onion, and chopped green onions to the whipped cream cheese. Mix thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Step 3: Transfer the mixture to a serving platter and spread it out into an even layer with a smooth surface.
- Step 4: Spoon the cranberry sauce over the cream cheese layer, spreading it evenly to cover the entire surface.
- Step 5: Garnish with additional chopped green onions. Serve immediately with crackers, chips, or fresh vegetables.
Tips & Variations
- For a milder dip, use only one jalapeño or add less to suit your spice preference.
- Swap the cranberry sauce with a spiced peach or apricot jam for a different fruity twist.
- Let the dip chill in the fridge for 30 minutes to an hour before serving for enhanced flavor melding.
Storage
Store the dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Before serving leftovers, allow it to come to room temperature or give it a gentle stir. This dip is best enjoyed fresh but can be gently reheated to soften the cream cheese if desired.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this dip dairy-free?
Yes, using a dairy-free cream cheese alternative works perfectly and still yields a creamy texture and great flavor.
What can I serve this dip with?
This dip pairs well with crackers, tortilla chips, pita wedges, or fresh vegetables like cucumber slices and bell pepper strips.
Print
10-Minute Cranberry Jalapeño Dip Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This 10-Minute Cranberry Jalapeño Dip is a deliciously tangy and spicy appetizer perfect for any gathering. Creamy whipped cream cheese is blended with zesty lime juice, fresh jalapeños, and onions, topped with sweet whole-berry cranberry sauce and garnished with green onions. Ready in minutes, it pairs wonderfully with crackers, chips, or fresh vegetables for a crowd-pleasing snack.
Ingredients
Dip Base
- 2 (8 oz) containers dairy-free cream cheese (such as Kite Hill) or regular cream cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 lime, juiced
- 2 fresh jalapeños, seeds removed and finely diced
- 2–3 Tbsp finely diced red onion
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions (plus extra for garnish)
Topping
- 1 (14 oz) can cranberry sauce with whole berries
Instructions
- Prepare the Cream Cheese: Bring the cream cheese to room temperature to ensure it whips smoothly.
- Whip the Cream Cheese: Using a handheld mixer, whip the cream cheese until it reaches a fluffy, whipped texture, creating a light and creamy base for the dip.
- Mix Ingredients: Add the garlic powder, salt, pepper, lime juice, diced jalapeños, red onion, and chopped green onions to the whipped cream cheese. Mix thoroughly using the handheld mixer or a spatula until all ingredients are evenly incorporated and the flavor is balanced.
- Assemble the Dip Base: Transfer the cream cheese mixture to your serving platter and spread it out into an even layer, creating a smooth surface for the topping.
- Add the Cranberry Sauce: Spoon the cranberry sauce over the cream cheese layer, spreading it evenly with the back of a spoon to cover the entire surface, ensuring every bite has a sweet and tangy punch.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle additional chopped green onions on top for a fresh, colorful garnish. Serve immediately with your favorite crackers, chips, or fresh veggies for snacking.
Notes
- Allow cream cheese to come to room temperature for best whipping results.
- Adjust the amount of jalapeño based on your preferred spice level.
- Use dairy-free cream cheese to make the dip suitable for dairy-free or vegan diets.
- Can be prepared a few hours ahead; cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Great for holiday gatherings and parties.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: cranberry jalapeño dip, creamy dip, holiday appetizer, quick dip, no-cook dip, dairy-free dip, vegan dip, jalapeño cream cheese dip
