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Easy Holiday Cranberry Jalapeño Dip (5 Ingredients)

cranberry jalapeño cream cheese dip - featured image

This 5-ingredient cranberry jalapeño cream cheese dip is ready in under 10 minutes and perfect for holiday parties. Sweet, spicy, and creamy, it’s always the first thing to disappear.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 16 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 1 can (14 oz) whole berry cranberry sauce
  • ½ cup pickled jalapeños, drained and finely chopped
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice

Instructions

  1. Soften the cream cheese: Take cream cheese out of fridge at least 30 minutes before starting. If in a rush, microwave on low for 10-15 seconds until soft but not melted.
  2. Prep add-ins: Stir cranberry sauce in can. Drain and finely chop jalapeños. Wash, dry, and chop cilantro. Squeeze lime juice.
  3. Mix the base: Place softened cream cheese in a mixing bowl. Stir with a spatula until smooth and creamy, about 30 seconds.
  4. Fold in ingredients: Add cranberry sauce, chopped jalapeños, cilantro, and lime juice. Fold gently until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  5. Transfer to serving dish: Scoop mixture into a serving dish and spread into an even layer. Optionally create swirls on top with spatula.
  6. Chill (optional but recommended): Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to let flavors meld. Can be served immediately if needed.
  7. Serve: Bring to room temperature (about 15 minutes out of fridge) before serving. Pair with tortilla chips, crackers, crostini, or veggie sticks.

Notes

For best flavor, make a day ahead and refrigerate overnight. Double the recipe for parties. Drain jalapeños well to avoid watery dip. Do not use a food processor—stir by hand for best texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: cranberry jalapeño dip, holiday appetizer, cream cheese dip, 5 ingredient dip, easy party dip