Quick Cranberry Jalapeno Dip

Highlighted under: Quick Prep Recipe Ideas

This Quick Cranberry Jalapeno Dip is a perfect blend of sweet and spicy, making it an ideal appetizer for any gathering.

Emily

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-01T18:49:43.606Z

This Quick Cranberry Jalapeno Dip combines the tartness of cranberries with the heat of jalapenos, creating a uniquely delicious dip that pairs perfectly with crackers or vegetables. It's quick to make and always a crowd-pleaser!

Why You Will Love This Recipe

  • Unique blend of sweet and spicy flavors
  • Quick and easy to prepare in just 15 minutes
  • Perfect for parties, holidays, or game day
  • Versatile dip that pairs well with various snacks

The Perfect Appetizer for Any Occasion

When it comes to hosting gatherings, having a standout appetizer is essential. This Quick Cranberry Jalapeno Dip does just that. Its unique combination of sweet cranberries and spicy jalapenos creates a flavor profile that's both intriguing and satisfying. Whether you're planning a holiday feast, a casual get-together, or a game day celebration, this dip will impress your guests and leave them wanting more.

Not only is this dip delicious, but it's also incredibly versatile. Serve it alongside a variety of dippers such as tortilla chips, pita bread, or fresh veggies. The vibrant colors and flavors will not only tantalize the taste buds but also provide a beautiful presentation on your appetizer table.

Quick and Easy Preparation

One of the best aspects of this Quick Cranberry Jalapeno Dip is its simplicity. In just 15 minutes, you can whip up a batch that will elevate your appetizer game. The process is straightforward: sauté jalapenos, mix the creamy base, and fold in the cranberries and cilantro. This ease of preparation makes it a go-to recipe for both seasoned cooks and beginners alike.

Moreover, the minimal cooking involved means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of your guests. This dip is perfect for those last-minute gatherings where you need a quick yet impressive dish.

Flavor Pairing and Variations

The flavor of this dip pairs beautifully with a variety of snacks, making it a flexible option for any occasion. Consider serving it with crunchy tortilla chips for a delightful contrast or alongside soft pita bread for a creamy bite. For a healthier option, fresh vegetables like cucumbers, carrots, and bell peppers are excellent dippers that complement the dip’s flavor.

Feel free to experiment with the recipe as well! Add ingredients like diced red onion or a sprinkle of cumin for an added layer of flavor. If you're looking for a milder version, reduce the amount of jalapenos or substitute with a milder pepper to suit your preference.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to whip up your Quick Cranberry Jalapeno Dip!

Ingredients

  • 1 cup fresh or canned cranberries
  • 2 jalapenos, seeded and diced
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Once you have all your ingredients, you're ready to start making the dip!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your dip.

Prepare the Jalapenos

In a skillet, heat the diced jalapenos over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant.

Mix the Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, lime juice, and cooked jalapenos. Mix until smooth.

Add Cranberries and Cilantro

Fold in the cranberries and chopped cilantro. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the dip for at least 10 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.

Enjoy your homemade dip with your favorite snacks!

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers after your gathering, storing this dip is simple. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier the next day. It's a perfect snack to enjoy throughout the week, whether on its own or as a topping for sandwiches and wraps.

For best results, consume the dip within 3-4 days. Be sure to give it a good stir before serving again, as it may thicken slightly in the fridge.

Nutritional Benefits

This Quick Cranberry Jalapeno Dip not only tantalizes your taste buds but also offers some nutritional benefits. Cranberries are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, which can boost your immune system and overall health. Meanwhile, jalapenos contain capsaicin, known for its potential metabolism-boosting properties.

The dip also features cream cheese, which provides a creamy texture while offering protein and calcium. When paired with fresh vegetables for dipping, you create a balanced snack that satisfies your cravings without sacrificing nutrition.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen cranberries?

Yes, you can use frozen cranberries. Just thaw them before mixing.

→ How long can I store this dip?

You can store the dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and refrigerate it until ready to serve.

→ What can I serve with this dip?

This dip goes well with tortilla chips, crackers, or fresh vegetables.

Quick Cranberry Jalapeno Dip

This Quick Cranberry Jalapeno Dip is a perfect blend of sweet and spicy, making it an ideal appetizer for any gathering.

Prep Time10 minutes
Cooking Duration5 minutes
Overall Time15 minutes

Created by: Emily

Recipe Type: Quick Prep Recipe Ideas

Skill Level: Beginner

Final Quantity: 8 servings

What You'll Need

Ingredients

  1. 1 cup fresh or canned cranberries
  2. 2 jalapenos, seeded and diced
  3. 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  4. 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  5. 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  6. 1 tablespoon lime juice
  7. Salt and pepper to taste

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a skillet, heat the diced jalapenos over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant.

Step 02

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, lime juice, and cooked jalapenos. Mix until smooth.

Step 03

Fold in the cranberries and chopped cilantro. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 04

Refrigerate the dip for at least 10 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 150 kcal
  • Total Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg
  • Sodium: 180mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 9g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 4g
  • Protein: 3g