Sweet, Tangy, and Creamy Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip

This Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip is my go-to holiday appetizer when I want something creamy and just a little bit spicy without spending all day in the kitchen.

Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip on a chip

Why This Dip Works So Well for Holiday Parties

When I first made this cranberry jalapeño dip for a small New Year’s gathering, I thought it would just be another option on the snack table. Turns out, it was the first thing scraped clean!

The base is just room temperature cream cheese, spread into an even layer on a serving plate or 9-inch pie dish. On top goes a vibrant cranberry mixture that’s fresh, bold, and full of texture.

The cranberries bring that unmistakable tartness, while sugar softens the bite just enough. Jalapeños add a little heat without overpowering, and green onions plus fresh cilantro keep everything tasting bright instead of heavy, and a splash of lime juice ties it all together. Good luck trying to wait until next year to make another batch!

If you’re making more than one recipe for the end-of-year festivities, keep it gooey with this Cheesy Baked Onion Dip!

Ingredients for Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip

Ingredients You’ll Need

Fresh cranberries, rinsed and drained
Jalapeños, seeded and diced (adjust to heat preference)
Fresh cilantro, chopped
Sugar
Green onions, sliced
Lime juice
Salt
Cream cheese, softened
Crackers, tortilla chips, or pita chips for serving

Tips for the Best Cranberry Jalapeño Dip

Don’t over-process the cranberries. A food processor makes quick work of them, but pulse just until finely chopped. You want texture, not cranberry sauce.
Let it chill. The cranberry mixture needs at least 2 hours in the fridge. This gives the sugar time to dissolve and mellows the jalapeño heat.
Soften the cream cheese fully. Room temperature cream cheese spreads easily and creates that smooth, creamy base. Cold cream cheese will tear and look uneven.
Watch the liquid. If your cranberries release excess liquid, you can drain them briefly in a fine mesh strainer before spooning them over the cream cheese to avoid a watery dip.

Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip being scooped in a chip

How to Make Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip

Step 1: Make the Cranberry Mixture

Add the fresh cranberries to a food processor and pulse until finely chopped. Transfer them to a medium bowl. Stir in the diced jalapeños, chopped cilantro, green onions, sugar, lime juice, and salt until everything is well combined.

Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. This step is key! The cranberry mixture softens, sweetens, and develops that signature sweet-heat flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Base

Spread the softened cream cheese evenly onto a serving plate or into a shallow dish, like a 9-inch pie dish. Use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to create a smooth, even layer.

Step 3: Assemble and Serve

Spoon the chilled cranberry jalapeño mixture over the top of the cream cheese, spreading it gently into an even layer.

Pouring the cranberry and jalapeño mix on top of the cream cheese base

Completed Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip

Serve immediately with tortilla chips, crackers, or pita chips!

Dipping a chip into a bowl of Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

This dip is a good choice for prepping ahead. The cranberry mixture can be made up to two days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Assemble the dip just before serving for the freshest look.

Leftovers (if you’re lucky enough to have any) keep well in the fridge and taste just as good the next day!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this dip very spicy?

Not really. Removing the seeds from the jalapeños keeps the heat mild. If you want more kick, leave a few seeds in or add an extra pepper.

Can I use whipped or light cream cheese?

You can, but full-fat cream cheese gives the best texture and holds up better under the cranberry topping.

Can I swap lime juice for lemon or orange juice?

Yep! Lemon juice works well, and orange juice adds a slightly sweeter citrus note if that’s your preference.

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