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Easy Jalapeno Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip

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A quick and easy dip that combines spicy jalapeno, tart cranberries, and creamy cream cheese. Perfect for game days, holiday parties, or a simple snack that comes together in minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
  • 1 medium jalapeno pepper, finely diced
  • 2–3 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice, freshly squeezed
  • 1 pinch flaky sea salt
  • 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the cranberries: Add cranberries and 2 tablespoons water to a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a simmer and cook 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cranberries burst and soften.
  2. Sweeten the cranberries: Remove from heat. Stir in 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup and lime juice. Taste and add more sweetener if desired. Let cool about 5 minutes.
  3. Soften the cream cheese: If not at room temperature, cut into cubes and microwave 10-15 seconds until soft but not melted.
  4. Mix the base: In a medium bowl, stir softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
  5. Add the jalapeno: Fold in finely diced jalapeno. Start with half if sensitive to heat, then add more to taste.
  6. Combine everything: Pour cooled cranberry mixture over cream cheese. Add a pinch of salt. Gently fold until mostly combined, leaving some streaks for a marbled look.
  7. Taste and adjust: Adjust heat or sweetness as needed.
  8. Chill (optional): Cover and refrigerate at least 30 minutes for best flavor. Can be served warm immediately.
  9. Serve: Transfer to a serving dish. Garnish with cilantro and extra cranberries or jalapeno slices if desired. Serve with crackers, crostini, pretzels, or sliced apples.

Notes

For best flavor, let dip chill for at least 30 minutes or overnight. Jalapeno heat varies; start with half and adjust. Cream cheese must be at room temperature for smooth mixing. Do not freeze. Leftovers keep up to 5 days in refrigerator.

Nutrition

Keywords: jalapeno cranberry dip, cream cheese dip, easy appetizer, holiday dip, spicy cranberry dip

Find it online: https://blingbite.com/easy-jalapeno-cranberry-cream-cheese-dip-recipe/