Quick Cranberry Jalapeno Dip

Name: Quick Cranberry Jalapeno Dip
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup fresh cranberries; 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 1 jalapeno, finely chopped (seeds removed for less heat); 1/4 cup green onions, chopped; 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

This Quick Cranberry Jalapeno Dip is a delightful blend of sweet and spicy, perfect for any gathering or as a tasty snack.

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2025-11-30T11:01:56.119Z

This dip combines the tartness of cranberries with the fiery kick of jalapenos, making it an irresistible appetizer that pairs well with crackers or veggies.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors
Super easy to make with minimal ingredients
Great for parties, game days, or family gatherings

      

Perfect for Any Occasion

This Quick Cranberry Jalapeno Dip is not just a snack; it’s a versatile addition to any gathering. Whether you're hosting a holiday party, a casual get-together, or a game day celebration, this dip will steal the show. The combination of sweet cranberries and spicy jalapenos creates a flavor profile that appeals to both sweet and savory lovers alike, making it a hit with all your guests.

Its vibrant colors and unique taste make it an attractive centerpiece on your appetizer table. Pair it with an assortment of crackers, chips, or fresh veggies, and watch as everyone dives in for a taste. Its appeal lies not only in its flavors but also in its simplicity, ensuring you can whip it up in no time.

Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor

One of the best aspects of this dip is its minimal ingredient list. With just a handful of fresh items, you can create a dish that’s bursting with flavor. Fresh cranberries provide a tartness that balances beautifully with the creamy texture of cream cheese and mayonnaise. Meanwhile, the jalapeno adds just the right amount of heat to keep things exciting.

What’s more, the addition of green onions and cilantro brings a fresh herbaceous note to the dip, elevating it beyond the ordinary. This is a recipe that proves you don’t need a long list of ingredients to impress your guests; sometimes, simplicity is the key to culinary success.

Make Ahead for Convenience

One of the greatest benefits of the Quick Cranberry Jalapeno Dip is that it can be made ahead of time. Preparing this dip in advance allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste. Just mix all the ingredients, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

This make-ahead feature is particularly useful during busy times of the year, such as holidays or entertaining seasons. It frees up your time to focus on other dishes or enjoy your guests, knowing that a delicious appetizer is ready to go. Simply set it out before your guests arrive, and you're all set!

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your dip:

Ingredients

1 cup fresh cranberries
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1 jalapeno, finely chopped (seeds removed for less heat)
1/4 cup green onions, chopped
1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Now that you have everything, let’s move on to the preparation!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your dip:

Blend the Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the cranberries, cream cheese, mayonnaise, jalapeno, green onions, and cilantro.

Mix and Season

Using a fork or spatula, mix everything together until well combined. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Chill and Serve

Cover the dip and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Serve with your choice of crackers, chips, or veggies!

Tips for Perfecting Your Dip

To ensure your Quick Cranberry Jalapeno Dip is a success, consider using fresh cranberries when they are in season. They not only taste better but also add a vibrant color to your dish. If fresh cranberries are unavailable, frozen cranberries can be used; just be sure to thaw and drain them before mixing.

Adjust the jalapeno according to your heat preference. For those who enjoy a milder flavor, removing the seeds and membranes will significantly reduce the heat. Alternatively, if you like it spicy, feel free to add more jalapeno or even a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.

Serving Suggestions

This dip pairs wonderfully with a variety of dippers. Serve it alongside tortilla chips, pita chips, or an assortment of fresh vegetable sticks like carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers. For a more gourmet touch, consider using toasted baguette slices or crostini.

For an elegant presentation, arrange your dippers in a circle around a bowl of the dip on a large platter. You can also garnish the dip with additional cilantro or a sprinkle of chopped green onions to add visual appeal. Your guests will be impressed by both the taste and the presentation!

Storage and Shelf Life

If you have any leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The dip will stay fresh for up to three days, although it’s best enjoyed within the first day or two for optimal flavor and texture. Before serving leftovers, give it a good stir to reincorporate any ingredients that may have separated.

Avoid freezing this dip, as the cream cheese and mayonnaise may not thaw well and could affect the texture. Instead, enjoy it fresh and consider making a new batch for future gatherings. This ensures you always serve a creamy, flavorful dip that your guests will love.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes! This dip can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

→ What can I serve this dip with?

It pairs well with crackers, chips, veggies, or even as a spread on sandwiches.

→ Is it possible to make this dip vegan?

You can substitute the cream cheese and mayonnaise with vegan alternatives.

→ How spicy is this dip?

The spice level depends on the jalapeno used. Removing the seeds reduces the heat significantly.