recipe: cranberry jalapeño dip, perfect for 🦃 day!
As Thanksgiving approaches, I’m experimenting with a few recipes to bring to the family table this year. I love adding something new and unexpected to the spread, so I decided to try out a Cranberry Jalapeño Dip. At first, I’ll admit, it sounds like an unusual combo—cranberries and jalapeños? But trust me, the flavors come together in the most delicious way. It’s the perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and just a hint of heat. After tasting it, I knew right away: this dip is definitely coming with us to Thanksgiving!
What Makes This Dip So Special?
This Cranberry Jalapeño Dip is surprisingly versatile and an absolute crowd-pleaser. The cranberries bring a burst of tartness and that beautiful holiday color, while the jalapeños add a mild kick, making it unique and exciting. The sweetness balances out the heat, and when paired with a creamy base, it becomes downright addictive. It’s refreshing yet rich, making it perfect as an appetizer to share with family and friends.
Here’s the Recipe I Tried:
Ingredients:
- 1 bag (12 oz) fresh cranberries, chopped
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh cilantro
- 1–2 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped (adjust for spice level)
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the chopped cranberries (p.s. I chopped mine in our food processor!), cilantro, jalapeños, green onions, sugar, lemon juice, and salt. Mix well and let it sit in the fridge for at least 1 hour (I let mine sit overnight!). This helps the flavors meld together and softens the cranberries.
2. When ready to serve, spread the softened cream cheese in an even layer on a serving platter.
3. Spoon the cranberry mixture over the cream cheese, spreading it evenly.
4. Serve with crackers, crostini, or sliced baguette, and watch it disappear!
After just one bite, this dip became a new holiday favorite for us. It’s so vibrant and festive, perfect for adding some color and flavor to the Thanksgiving table. Whether you’re hosting or bringing a dish to share, this Cranberry Jalapeño Dip is a must-try. Give it a go and see if it becomes a favorite in your home, too!
