Name: Fresh Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 oz fresh cranberries; 1/4 cup cane sugar; 1/3 cup finely chopped green onions (white and green parts); 1/4 cup chopped cilantro; 1 1/2 tsp minced fresh ginger; Juice of 1/2 large lime (or 1 small lime); 1/4 tsp fine sea salt; 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (remove seeds and ribs for less heat); 1 log (3–4 oz) goat cheese, softened; 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened

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This fresh cranberry jalapeño cream cheese dip is a vibrant, tangy, and slightly spicy appetizer that’s perfect for holidays, parties, or anytime you want a crowd-pleasing snack. The tart cranberries balance beautifully with creamy cheese and a touch of heat from jalapeño, making every bite irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this recipe because it’s festive, colorful, and full of flavor. The cranberry mixture is bright and refreshing with just the right amount of sweetness, while the cream cheese and goat cheese base adds richness and creaminess. Best of all, it’s easy to make ahead and serve with crackers, bread, or chips.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

12 ounces fresh cranberries
1/4 cup cane sugar
1/3 cup finely chopped green onions (white and green parts)
1/4 cup chopped cilantro
1 1/2 teaspoons minced fresh ginger
juice of 1/2 large lime (or 1 small lime)
1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
1 jalapeño, finely chopped (remove seeds and ribs for less heat)
1 log (3–4 ounces) goat cheese, softened
1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened

Directions

Add cranberries to a food processor and pulse 12–15 times until chopped but not pureed.
Transfer to a large bowl and stir in sugar, green onions, cilantro, ginger, lime juice, salt, and jalapeño. Mix well to help the sugar dissolve.
Let the mixture sit for at least 30 minutes (or overnight in the refrigerator) to allow flavors to meld.
Rinse out the food processor bowl. Blend goat cheese and cream cheese until fluffy and smooth.
Spread the cheese mixture onto a serving plate in swoops.
Drain excess liquid from the cranberry mixture with a fine mesh strainer, then spoon generously over the cheese base.
Serve with tortilla chips, crackers, or crostini.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 8–10 people as an appetizer.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Chilling time: 30 minutes (minimum)
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

Use all cream cheese if you prefer a milder flavor (skip goat cheese).
Swap lime juice for orange juice for a sweeter citrus note.
Add pomegranate arils for extra color and crunch.
Blend some of the cranberry mixture into the cheese for a marbled effect.
Use honey or maple syrup instead of sugar for natural sweetness.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cranberry topping can be made ahead and stored separately for up to 2 days before serving. Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the cheese and cranberries will change.

FAQs

Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the cranberry topping the day before and refrigerate. Assemble with the cheese just before serving.

Is goat cheese necessary?

No, you can use all cream cheese for a more traditional flavor. Goat cheese adds tanginess.

Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?

Fresh cranberries are best, but you can rehydrate dried cranberries in warm water and use them if fresh are unavailable.

How spicy is this dip?

The heat level depends on whether you leave in the jalapeño seeds and ribs. Removing them makes it mild.

What can I serve this dip with?

It pairs well with tortilla chips, crackers, crostini, or sliced baguette.

Can I use a different sweetener?

Yes, honey, agave, or maple syrup can replace cane sugar.

How do I keep the cranberry topping from being too watery?

Drain the mixture with a fine mesh strainer before spooning it over the cheese.

Can I make it vegan?

Yes, use vegan cream cheese and skip the goat cheese.

What herbs can I substitute for cilantro?

Parsley or mint makes a good substitute if you’re not a fan of cilantro.

Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?

Yes, it doubles easily—just use a larger serving platter.

Conclusion

Fresh cranberry jalapeño cream cheese dip is a festive, flavorful appetizer that combines tart, spicy, creamy, and sweet elements in every bite. It’s easy to prepare, perfect for sharing, and a guaranteed hit at holiday gatherings or parties. Once you try it, it may become your new go-to holiday dip.

Maggie