Cranberry Jalapeño Dip Recipe

Introduction

This Cranberry Jalapeño Dip from Costco is a perfect blend of tart, spicy, and creamy flavors that will elevate any snack platter. It’s easy to prepare and offers a refreshing twist on traditional dips, ideal for holidays or gatherings.

Ingredients

• 6 oz fresh cranberries
• 1 small jalapeño pepper (seeded, with membranes removed)
• 1 green onion (scallion) (white and part of green top, trimmed)
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
• ½ tsp sea salt
• 8 oz cream cheese (softened at room temperature)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Rinse the cranberries, discard any mushy ones, and pat them dry with a towel.
2. Step 2: Add the cranberries to a blender or food processor and pulse until they break into smaller pieces.
3. Step 3: Add the seeded jalapeño, chopped green onion, sugar, lime juice, and sea salt to the cranberries. Pulse until the mixture is finely chopped, scraping down the sides as needed.
4. Step 4: In a large bowl, whip the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
5. Step 5: Fold the cranberry jalapeño relish into the cream cheese until well combined.
6. Step 6: Cover the dip and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. The flavor improves the longer it sits. Taste and adjust sugar if needed before serving.

Tips & Variations

• You can substitute lime juice with lemon juice for a slightly different citrus note.
• For extra heat, leave some jalapeño seeds in or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Serve with crackers, toasted baguette slices, or fresh vegetable sticks for a delightful appetizer.

Storage

Store the dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Before serving again, stir well and let it come to room temperature for about 15 minutes. This dip is best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated slightly to soften if needed.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes, making the dip a few hours or even a day ahead allows the flavors to meld nicely. Just keep it refrigerated and covered.

What can I use if I don’t have a blender or food processor?

You can finely chop the cranberries, jalapeño, and green onion by hand with a sharp knife, though it will require more effort and will result in a chunkier texture.

Cranberry Jalapeño Dip Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 82 reviews

A vibrant and tangy Cranberry Jalapeño Dip combining fresh cranberries, spicy jalapeño, and creamy cheese. This easy-to-make dip balances sweet, tart, and spicy flavors perfect for holiday parties or casual gatherings.

• Author: lucas
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes (including refrigeration)
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
• Category: Dip
• Method: Blending
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Relish Mixture

• 6 oz fresh cranberries
• 1 small jalapeño pepper, seeded and membranes removed
• 1 green onion (scallion), white and part of green top trimmed
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
• ½ teaspoon sea salt

Dip Base

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened at room temperature

Instructions

1. Prepare Cranberries: Rinse the cranberries thoroughly, discarding any that are mushy. Pat them dry using a clean towel to ensure no excess moisture dilutes the dip.
2. Pulse Cranberries: Place the cranberries into a blender or food processor. Pulse a few times until they break down into smaller pieces but are not completely pureed, retaining some texture.
3. Add Other Ingredients: Add the seeded jalapeño, trimmed green onion, granulated sugar, fresh lime juice, and sea salt to the blender. Pulse again until everything is finely chopped and well combined, scraping down the sides as needed for even mixing.
4. Whip Cream Cheese: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to whip the softened cream cheese until it becomes smooth and creamy, free of lumps.
5. Combine Mixtures: Spoon the cranberry and jalapeño relish into the whipped cream cheese. Mix thoroughly until the relish is evenly blended throughout, creating a uniform dip.
6. Chill and Serve: Cover the dip and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld. The taste improves the longer it sits. Before serving, taste and add additional sugar if a sweeter flavor is desired.

Notes

• For a milder dip, remove all jalapeño seeds and membranes completely.
• Use fresh lime juice for the best flavor; bottled lime juice may alter the taste.
• Softening the cream cheese to room temperature is essential for smooth mixing.
• This dip pairs beautifully with crackers, toasted bread, or fresh vegetable sticks.
• Refrigerated leftovers can be stored covered for up to 3 days.

Keywords: cranberry dip, jalapeño dip, holiday appetizer, creamy dip, spicy cranberry dip, easy holiday recipes