Spicy Christmas Cranberry Jalapeno Dip Recipe
This Spicy Christmas Cranberry Jalapeno Dip is a vibrant and festive appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings. The creamy, smooth base of full-fat cream cheese pairs beautifully with a zesty cranberry-jalapeno relish that adds both sweetness and heat. Garnished with fresh green onions and cilantro, this dip is ideal for serving with sturdy crackers and is sure to impress your guests with its bold flavors and holiday spirit.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Cream Cheese Base
- 2 (8 oz) blocks full-fat cream cheese, softened to room temperature
Cranberry-Jalapeno Relish
- 12 oz fresh cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 jalapeno, seeded and finely minced
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
Garnish
- 5 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
For Serving
- Sturdy crackers (e.g., Ritz, Wheat Thins)
Instructions
- Prepare Cranberry-Jalapeno Relish: In a medium saucepan, combine fresh cranberries, granulated sugar, minced jalapeno, salt, cumin, and lemon juice. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cranberries burst and the mixture thickens to a jam-like consistency. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Base: In a large mixing bowl, beat softened full-fat cream cheese with an electric mixer until perfectly smooth and lump-free.
- Assemble Dip: Spread the whipped cream cheese evenly onto the bottom of a shallow serving dish. Gently spoon the completely cooled cranberry-jalapeno relish over the cream cheese layer, spreading it evenly to cover.
- Garnish and Chill: Sprinkle the top with thinly sliced green onions and chopped cilantro. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2-4 hours (or ideally overnight) to allow flavors to meld and the dip to firm up.
- Serve: Remove from refrigerator 15-20 minutes before serving. Serve with sturdy crackers like Ritz or Wheat Thins.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature to achieve a smooth and creamy base without lumps.
- The jalapeno can be adjusted to taste; leave some seeds for more heat or omit for less spice.
- This dip is best served chilled but brought slightly to room temperature for optimal flavor.
- Make the cranberry-jalapeno relish a day ahead to allow flavors to deepen.
- Use sturdy crackers to prevent breaking when scooping the dip.
Keywords: Christmas dip, cranberry jalapeno dip, holiday appetizer, cream cheese dip, spicy cranberry relish
