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Easy Jalapeño Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip: Best 5-Minute Appetizer

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A quick and easy 5-minute dip made with cream cheese, cranberry sauce, and jalapeños. Perfect for holidays, game days, or any occasion, this sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy appetizer is a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 16 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 1 cup cranberry sauce (whole berry or jellied)
  • 1/4 cup pickled jalapeños, chopped, plus 2 tablespoons pickling liquid
  • 1 small fresh jalapeño, seeded and minced
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt (fine sea salt)
  • 2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Soften the cream cheese: Remove from fridge at least 30 minutes before starting. If in a hurry, microwave on 50% power in 15-second intervals until soft but not melted.
  2. Mix the base: Beat softened cream cheese with a hand mixer on medium speed for about 1 minute until smooth and fluffy. Scrape down sides halfway through.
  3. Add cranberry sauce: Spoon cranberry sauce into the bowl. If using whole berry, stir first. Beat on low speed just until combined (about 30 seconds) for a marbled look.
  4. Add jalapeños and seasonings: Add chopped pickled jalapeños, pickling liquid, fresh minced jalapeño, honey, lime juice, and salt. Beat on low for 15-20 seconds until incorporated. Taste and adjust heat or sweetness as needed.
  5. Check texture: Dip should be creamy and spreadable. If too thick, add another tablespoon of pickling liquid or a splash of milk. If too loose, refrigerate for 15 minutes.
  6. Garnish and serve: Transfer to serving bowl, smooth top, sprinkle with cilantro and crushed red pepper flakes if desired. Add whole cranberries or a jalapeño slice for color.
  7. Chill (optional but recommended): Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to meld flavors. Can be made up to 24 hours ahead.

Notes

For best results, let cream cheese soften fully. Use pickling liquid for brightness. Taste and adjust seasoning. Dip improves after chilling. Can be doubled easily. For a baked version, spread in a dish and bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, then top with cheese and bake 5 more minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: jalapeño cranberry cream cheese dip, 5-minute appetizer, easy holiday dip, spicy cranberry dip, cream cheese dip

Find it online: https://zorbmeal.com/easy-jalape-n-o-cranberry-cream-cheese-dip-best-5-minute-appetizer/