I made a really good cream cheese jalapeño cranberry dip so addicting with crackers
1 bag of cranberry’s
1 cup of sugar
Hand full of jalapeños
Combine jalapeños cranberry and sugar pour over cream cheese some people add lemon juice and cilantro I didn’t want to 
great dip
Creamy Jalapeño Cranberry Dip with a Zesty Twist
Ingredients:
- 1 bag of fresh cranberries (about 12 ounces)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- Handful of fresh jalapeños, finely chopped (adjust according to your spice preference)
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
- Crackers or tortilla chips for serving
Instructions:
- Prepare the Cranberry Jalapeño Mixture:
- Rinse the cranberries under cold water and remove any stems or debris.
- In a food processor, pulse the cranberries until coarsely chopped. You can also chop them by hand if you prefer a chunkier texture.
- In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the chopped cranberries, sugar, and finely chopped jalapeños.
- Cook the Mixture:
- Cook the cranberry mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens, usually about 10-15 minutes.
- Cool and Adjust Spice:
- Allow the cranberry jalapeño mixture to cool to room temperature. Taste and adjust the spice level by adding more jalapeños if desired.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Base:
- In a separate bowl, whip the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Combine and Add Zesty Touch (Optional):
- Gently fold the cooled cranberry jalapeño mixture into the whipped cream cheese, ensuring it’s well combined.
- If desired, add fresh lemon juice for a zesty kick and chopped cilantro for a burst of freshness. Adjust these according to your taste preferences.
- Chill and Let Flavors Mingle:
- Transfer the dip to a serving bowl and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve with Crackers:
- Once chilled, serve the Creamy Jalapeño Cranberry Dip with your favorite crackers or tortilla chips.
- Enjoy:
- Dive in and savor the addictively delicious blend of sweet cranberries, spicy jalapeños, and creamy cheese. The optional lemon juice and cilantro add a delightful twist to this crowd-pleasing dip.
Feel free to customize the recipe based on your taste preferences, and don’t be afraid to experiment with additional ingredients or spice levels. Enjoy your flavorful and irresistibly creamy dip!
Q1: Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, absolutely! In fact, making the dip ahead of time allows the flavors to meld and intensify. Prepare the dip, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before serving. Just give it a good stir before serving to ensure the flavors are well distributed.
Q2: Can I adjust the spiciness of the dip?
Certainly! The spice level can be easily adjusted to suit your taste preferences. If you like it milder, reduce the amount of jalapeños, or remove the seeds and membranes before chopping. For more heat, add extra jalapeños or include some of the seeds for an extra kick.
Q3: Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen cranberries can be used as a substitute for fresh ones. Ensure they are thawed before pulsing in the food processor. Keep in mind that frozen cranberries may release more moisture during cooking, so you might need to adjust the cooking time slightly.
Q4: Are there alternatives to cream cheese?
Certainly! If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt or sour cream instead of cream cheese. This will result in a tangier dip. Vegan cream cheese alternatives can also be used for a dairy-free version.
Q5: How long does the dip last in the refrigerator?
The Creamy Jalapeño Cranberry Dip can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Beyond that, the texture may start to change, and the flavors may not be as vibrant.
Q6: What are some creative serving suggestions?
Aside from crackers, you can serve this dip with tortilla chips, sliced baguette, pretzel crisps, or vegetable sticks. It also makes a fantastic spread for sandwiches or wraps.
Q7: Can I freeze this dip?
It’s not recommended to freeze this dip, as dairy-based dips like this one can undergo texture changes when frozen and thawed. Freezing may result in a separation of the ingredients and a less appealing texture.
Q8: Can I make a larger batch for a party?
Absolutely! Simply double or triple the ingredients to accommodate a larger crowd. Ensure you have a sufficiently large saucepan for cooking the cranberry jalapeño mixture, and adjust the seasonings accordingly.
Q9: What should I do if the dip is too sweet?
If you find the dip too sweet, you can balance it by adding a bit of salt or a splash of lemon juice to enhance the tartness. Adjust gradually and taste as you go until you achieve the desired balance.
Q10: Can I customize this recipe further?
Certainly! Get creative with your additions. Diced green onions, chopped pecans, or a hint of ground cumin can add extra layers of flavor. Feel free to experiment and make this dip your own!
