If you want to wow your guests with a unique holiday appetizer, this Thanksgiving Jalapeño Cranberry Dip is the perfect recipe. I first made it when I was searching for something sweet, spicy, and festive to complement the Thanksgiving spread. The bright tartness of cranberries mixed with the mild heat of jalapeños and the creamy base makes this dip unforgettable. It’s quick to prepare, colorful on the table, and pairs beautifully with crackers, chips, or fresh bread.
Ingredients
1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened
1 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or canned)
2 jalapeños, seeded and finely diced
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
2 green onions, finely sliced
1 tbsp lime juice
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional garnish: extra cranberries, sliced jalapeños, or cilantro leaves
Instructions
Spread softened cream cheese evenly in a shallow serving dish. In a mixing bowl, combine cranberry sauce, jalapeños, cilantro, green onions, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. Spoon cranberry mixture evenly over the cream cheese base. Garnish with extra cranberries, cilantro, or sliced jalapeños. Serve immediately with crackers, tortilla chips, or warm bread.
Substitutions
Use goat cheese instead of cream cheese for a tangy twist. Replace cilantro with parsley if preferred. Swap cranberry sauce for raspberry preserves for a sweeter dip. Add crushed red pepper flakes for extra spice.
Equipment
Mixing bowl
Serving dish
Spatula or spoon
Knife and cutting board
Measuring spoons
Storage
Refrigerator: Store leftovers covered for up to 2 days.
Freezer: Not recommended, as the texture of cream cheese changes after thawing.
Make ahead: Prepare cranberry topping a day before and assemble just before serving.
Top Tips
Soften cream cheese for easier spreading. Seed jalapeños for mild heat or leave seeds for spicier flavor. Use fresh cilantro for the best taste. Always serve chilled or at room temperature with plenty of dippers.
FAQs
Can I make this dip ahead of time? Yes, but keep the cranberry-jalapeño topping separate until serving.
Is it very spicy? Not too much—the jalapeños add a mild kick balanced by the cranberries and cream cheese.
Can I use dried cranberries instead of sauce? No, the sauce is key for texture and sweetness.
What can I serve with this dip? Crackers, pita chips, tortilla chips, or crostini work wonderfully.