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Cranberry Jalapeno Dip Recipe

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4.2 from 5 reviews

This vibrant Cranberry Jalapeno Dip combines the tartness of fresh cranberries with the spicy kick of jalapeño, balanced by creamy cream cheese and a hint of lime. Perfectly chilled and slightly chunky, this dip offers a refreshing and flavorful appetizer ideal for holiday gatherings or everyday snacking.

  • Author: Chef
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Blending
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Primary Ingredients

  • 1 ½ cups fresh whole cranberries
  • 1 medium jalapeño (stem, seeds, and membranes removed)
  • 2 stalks chopped green onions
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

Dairy

  • 1 (8-ounce) package softened cream cheese
  • ¼ cup sour cream

Instructions

  1. Pulse: In a blender or food processor, combine the fresh cranberries, jalapeño, chopped green onions, granulated sugar, lime juice, and salt. Pulse several times, leaving the mixture chunky and not fully pureed to maintain texture.
  2. Strain: Spoon the cranberry mixture into a fine mesh strainer and press to remove excess liquid, reserving some of the juice for later use to enhance the dip’s color and consistency.
  3. Mix Cream Base: In a medium bowl, add the softened cream cheese and sour cream. Use an electric hand mixer to blend until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and well combined.
  4. Combine: Fold the chunky cranberry mixture into the cream cheese base. Add a splash of the reserved cranberry liquid to deepen the color and adjust the texture if you prefer a creamier dip.
  5. Refrigerate: Cover the dip and refrigerate it for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld and the dip to chill before serving. Adjust seasoning with additional sugar or salt if necessary. Serve chilled with crackers.

Notes

  • For a milder dip, reduce the amount of jalapeño or remove more seeds and membranes.
  • If fresh cranberries are unavailable, frozen cranberries may be used; thaw before blending.
  • Adjust sweetness by adding more or less sugar according to your taste preferences.
  • This dip can be prepared a day in advance and kept refrigerated for up to 2 days.
  • Serve with an assortment of crackers, toasted bread slices, or vegetable sticks for a delightful appetizer.