Christmas Cranberry Jalapeno Dip

Name: Christmas Cranberry Jalapeno Dip
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh cranberries; 1 jalapeno, seeded and chopped; 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup sour cream; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 1/4 cup green onions, chopped; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

Elevate your holiday gatherings with this festive Christmas Cranberry Jalapeno Dip. This deliciously sweet and spicy appetizer combines the tartness of cranberries with a zesty kick from fresh jalapenos, making it the perfect complement to cheese boards and party platters. Easy to prepare and visually stunning, this dip will quickly become a crowd favorite and a seasonal staple at your celebrations.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-11-25T06:03:22.642Z

This dip is perfect for the holiday season, bringing a burst of flavor and color to your table.

A Perfect Festive Appetizer

This Christmas Cranberry Jalapeno Dip is not just another appetizer; it's a celebration on a platter. The vibrant red of fresh cranberries is sure to attract attention, while the playful heat from jalapenos offers a delightful surprise. As guests mingle during holiday gatherings, this dip will both intrigue and satisfy their taste buds. Serve it next to crackers, bread, or even vegetables, transforming any standard appetizer table into a festive feast.

Moreover, its luscious texture balances creamy and tangy elements beautifully. The combination of cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise provides a rich mouthfeel that pairs seamlessly with the tantalizing crunch of chopped cranberries and the zest from green onions. This dip embodies the essence of holiday indulgence, making it an essential component of your culinary repertoire.

Versatile Pairing Options

One of the standout features of this dip is its versatility. While it's a perfect match for cheese boards, enhancing the flavor profile of various cheeses, it can also complement an array of snacks. Pair it with crispy tortilla chips for a Tex-Mex twist, or use it as a spread on sandwiches to elevate your lunchtime routine. The brightness of the cranberries combined with the jalapeno's heat makes it an exciting addition to any dish.

Additionally, this dip can be adjusted to suit your personal taste preferences. If you prefer an extra kick, feel free to add more jalapenos or even include a splash of hot sauce. Conversely, for a milder option, omit the seeds entirely and use sweet bell peppers instead. The flexibility of this recipe allows you to customize it to your liking while still enjoying the holiday spirit.

Preparing for Your Gathering

When planning your holiday gathering, preparation is key. This dip can be made in advance, making it an ideal choice for busy hosts. By allowing the flavors to meld together in the refrigerator for at least an hour, you ensure a rich tasting experience with enhanced depth. Consider preparing it the day before your event to alleviate stress on the day of.

Additionally, presentation can greatly enhance the appeal of your dish. Serve this dip in a decorative bowl and garnish with additional chopped green onions or whole cranberries for a pop of color. Surround it with an assortment of dippers, such as assorted crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetable sticks, to create a beautiful and inviting centerpiece for your holiday table.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

2 cups fresh cranberries
1 jalapeno, seeded and chopped
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup sour cream
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup green onions, chopped
Salt to taste

Make sure everything is prepared before mixing.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your dip:

Prepare Cranberries

In a food processor, pulse the cranberries until coarsely chopped. Be careful not to over-process.

Mix Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped cranberries, jalapeno, cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, green onions, and salt. Stir until well mixed.

Chill and Serve

Transfer the mixture to a serving dish and refrigerate for at least one hour before serving.

Enjoy your festive dip with tortilla chips or crackers.

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover dip, rest assured it can be stored for future indulgence. Keep the dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and it should last for up to three days. The flavors may continue to develop as it sits, making it even more delicious the next day.

When ready to serve again, simply give it a quick stir before enjoying. If you prefer a fresher taste, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh green onions or an additional dollop of cream cheese before serving.

Versatile Uses Beyond Dipping

This cranberry jalapeno dip isn't just for dipping. Its adaptable nature makes it a great ingredient for various dishes. Consider using it as a topping for baked chicken or fish to introduce a burst of flavor that will impress your guests.

Additionally, it can serve as a creative filling for pastries or puff pastry bites. Just spoon a little of the dip into your pastry, bake until golden brown, and you have an elegant appetizer ready to impress without much fuss.

Impressing Your Guests

Impressing your guests doesn't have to be a challenging task. With this Christmas Cranberry Jalapeno Dip, you can showcase your culinary skills while offering something unique and memorable. It’s a conversation starter, sure to draw compliments and spark engagement among your visitors.

As the holiday season is filled with opportunities for hosting, having a go-to recipe like this dip allows you to create a festive atmosphere with minimal effort. Your gatherings will not only be enjoyable but leave lasting impressions thanks to this standout appetizer.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and refrigerate.

→ Is it possible to adjust the spiciness?

Absolutely! You can reduce the jalapeno for less heat or add more for a spicier kick.