This festive Cranberry Jalapeño Dip brings the perfect mix of sweet and spicy! Made with fresh cranberries and a kick of jalapeño, it’s a treat for your taste buds.
Whenever I’m entertaining, this dip is my go-to. It’s quick to whip up, and everyone loves it. Pair it with crackers or veggies, and watch it disappear!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: This brings a rich and creamy texture to the dip. For a lighter option, try using Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for a different flavor that’s still creamy.
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries are the star. If they’re out of season, frozen cranberries work too! Just thaw and chop them. If you need a lower acidity option, consider mixing half cranberries and half chopped apples.
Jalapeño: Jalapeños add a beautiful spice. If heat isn’t your thing, use a sweet bell pepper or a mild Anaheim pepper instead. You could also add a dash of hot sauce for spice without the chunks.
Herbs: Fresh dill and parsley enhance the flavor. If you don’t have these on hand, dried herbs like dill weed can be a substitute, but use less of it because dried herbs are more potent.
What’s the Best Way to Mix the Ingredients without Overdoing It?
When mixing, it’s important to combine without breaking up the cranberries too much, which keeps the dip fresh and visually appealing. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with softened cream cheese to make mixing easier.
- Add the chopped herbs and green onions to the cream cheese first and mix until smooth.
- Then gently fold in the cranberries and jalapeño using a spatula. This keeps the cranberries intact.
- Finally, taste and adjust your seasonings for balance, adding sugar or salt as needed.
Following this method will ensure your dip stays vibrant and textured. Enjoy your culinary creation!
Cranberry Jalapeño Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup fresh cranberries, finely chopped
- 1 small jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons green onions, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance tartness)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Crackers or sliced vegetables for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dip takes about 15 minutes to prepare. It’s quick to mix up and can be served right away or chilled in the fridge for a bit to let the flavors meld together. Perfect for last-minute gatherings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Base:
Start by taking your softened cream cheese and placing it in a mixing bowl. Add in the finely chopped green onions, parsley, and dill. Use a spatula or a hand mixer to mix everything together until it’s smooth and well combined.
2. Adding the Cranberries and Jalapeño:
Next, gently fold in the finely chopped cranberries and jalapeño. Be careful not to overmix; you want to keep some of the berry texture intact. Stir just enough to evenly distribute them throughout the mixture.
3. Seasoning the Dip:
Now, it’s time to season! Add in the optional sugar, plus salt and pepper to taste. Mix gently to combine, tasting as you go to achieve your desired flavor. The sugar will help balance the tartness of the cranberries!
4. Serving the Dip:
Transfer the dip to a serving bowl, pressing down gently to form a mound. It should look nice and inviting! For a lovely finishing touch, garnish the top with a few whole cranberries and a sprig of dill.
5. Enjoy!
Now your Cranberry Jalapeño Dip is ready to serve! You can offer it either chilled or at room temperature. Pair it with your favorite crackers or fresh vegetables. Watch it vanish in no time!
This vibrant dip beautifully combines the tartness of cranberries with spicy jalapeño heat—ideal for holiday parties or any casual get-together! Enjoy every delightful bite!
Can I Use Dried Cranberries Instead of Fresh?
While fresh cranberries give a bright and tangy flavor, you can use dried cranberries in a pinch. Just chop them finely and consider reducing the sugar since dried cranberries are typically sweeter.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder dip, either omit the jalapeño altogether or use only half if you’re unsure about the spice level. For extra spice, consider leaving some seeds in or adding a dash of hot sauce to the mix.
Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dip a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before serving to refresh the texture and flavors. It may even taste better after sitting for a bit!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy again, just give it a quick stir, and it’s good to go!
