Looking for a holiday appetizer that steals the show? This Cranberry Jalapeno Cream Cheese Dip is a vibrant, flavorful dish that perfectly balances sweet, tart, and spicy notes. Often called “Christmas Crack,” this dip features a bed of smooth, velvety cream cheese topped with a jewel-toned salsa made from fresh cranberries, jalapenos, and lime. It is festive, addictive, and incredibly easy to make.
The beauty of this recipe is its contrast. The richness of the cream cheese cools the heat of the peppers, while the sugar-cured cranberries provide a satisfying crunch and burst of acidity. It looks beautiful on a serving platter with its bright red and green colors, making it the ideal centerpiece for your holiday spread.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The Perfect Flavor Balance
Sweet, spicy, creamy, and tart—this dip hits every taste bud. It is complex yet accessible, appealing to adventurous eaters and traditionalists alike.
Make-Ahead Friendly
This is actually better when made ahead. The cranberry salsa needs time for the flavors to meld and the sugar to dissolve. It takes the stress out of party prep. If you need other party snacks to go with this, these Smashburger Quesadillas are a savory, cheesy crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 12 oz fresh cranberries
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 whole jalapenos, minced
- 4 onions green onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
Instructions
- Chop cranberries in a food processor (do not puree).
- Mix cranberries, sugar, jalapenos, onions, cilantro, and lemon juice in a bowl.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours to let flavors cure.
- Whip cream cheese and spread on a serving platter.
- Top with cranberry mixture using a slotted spoon.
- Serve with crackers.
Nutrition
Ingredient Highlights & Substitutions
Essential Ingredients
Fresh Cranberries are the base (frozen works too). Jalapenos provide the heat—leave the seeds in for extra kick or remove them for mildness. Green onions and cilantro add savory herbal notes. Granulated sugar draws the juices out of the berries to create a syrup. Cream Cheese (full fat block style) is the foundation.
Smart Substitutions
If you can’t find fresh cranberries, thawed frozen ones work perfectly. You can swap cilantro for parsley if you have the “soap gene.” For a lighter version, use Neufchatel cheese, though full fat is richer.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prep Phase
Wash and pick over the cranberries. Pulse them in a food processor until chopped (but not pureed). Finely dice the jalapenos and green onions. Chop the cilantro.
Cooking Phase
In a medium bowl, combine the chopped cranberries, jalapenos, green onions, cilantro, sugar, lemon juice, and salt. Stir well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight is best). The mixture will release liquid and become saucy. When ready to serve, beat the cream cheese until fluffy and spread it on a serving plate. Strain the cranberry mixture slightly (don’t discard all the juice, just the excess) and spoon it over the cream cheese.
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
Technique Secrets
Don’t skip the resting time! If you serve it immediately, the cranberries will be crunchy and bitter, and the sugar will be gritty. The “curing” process is essential for the texture and flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t use dried cranberries (craisins); they won’t release juice or have the right tartness. Also, use a slotted spoon to serve the topping so the cream cheese doesn’t get swamped in pink liquid.
Serving Ideas & Pairings
Presentation & Plating
Serve in a pie dish or a shallow bowl. Surround with sturdy crackers like Wheat Thins or Ritz, which hold up well to the heavy dip.
Pairing Suggestions
This pairs beautifully with sparkling wine or a holiday punch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1? How long does it last?
The topping lasts for days in the fridge. Once assembled on the cheese, eat within 24 hours.
Q2? Is it very spicy?
No, the sugar and cream cheese neutralize most of the heat. It is a mild, warming spice.
Q3? Can I use a blender?
Be careful. A blender might turn the cranberries into a smoothie. A food processor pulse or hand chopping is better.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 160 kcal |
| Total Fat | 10g |
| Saturated Fat | 6g |
| Cholesterol | 30mg |
| Sodium | 180mg |
| Carbohydrates | 18g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g |
| Protein | 2g |
Conclusion
The Cranberry Jalapeno Cream Cheese Dip Recipe Appetizer is a holiday must-have. It requires zero cooking, looks stunning, and vanishes from the appetizer table in record time.
