Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip

Introduction

Spice up your snack game with this delightful Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip! It’s the ultimate combination of sweet, spicy, and creamy goodness that’s sure to impress your guests at any gathering or serve as a perfect snack at home. With a tangy cranberry topping paired with rich cream cheese, this dip is as versatile as it is delicious.

Detailed Ingredients with Measures

• For the Topping:
• 12 oz fresh cranberries
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 2 small jalapeños, seeded and minced
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• For the Base:
• 16 oz cream cheese, softened

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes (includes chilling time)
• Yield: 8 servings

Directions

1. In a food processor, pulse the cranberries until finely chopped but not mushy. You want a chunky texture, not a purée!
2. Transfer the cranberries to a bowl and stir in the sugar, cilantro, jalapeños, lemon juice, and salt. Mix until every berry is coated in sweetness and spice.
3. Pop that bowl in the fridge and chill for at least 2 hours. This lets all those flavors mingle together!
4. When you’re ready to serve, grab your softened cream cheese and spread it evenly on your serving platter.
5. Gently spoon the cranberry-jalapeño mixture over the cream cheese, ensuring every inch is covered with colorful goodness.
6. Pair with your favorite crackers, tortilla chips, or even veggies, and let the dipping begin!

Enjoy this luscious dip that brings a festive flair to any occasion!

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cranberries

In a food processor, pulse the 12 oz of fresh cranberries until finely chopped but not mushy. You want chunky texture and not a purée.

Step 2: Mix the Topping Ingredients

Transfer the chopped cranberries to a bowl and stir in 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1/4 cup of chopped cilantro, 2 small seeded and minced jalapeños, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, and 1/8 teaspoon of salt. Mix everything together until the cranberries are well coated.

Step 3: Chill the Topping

Pop the bowl in the fridge and chill for at least 2 hours. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 4: Prepare the Cream Cheese Base

When you’re ready to serve, take 16 oz of softened cream cheese and spread it evenly on your serving platter.

Step 5: Assemble the Dip

Gently spoon the chilled cranberry-jalapeño mixture over the cream cheese, ensuring every inch is covered with the colorful topping.

Step 6: Serve With Accompaniments

Pair the dip with your favorite crackers, tortilla chips, or even fresh veggies, and enjoy the deliciousness!

Notes

Chilling Time

Chilling the topping for at least 2 hours is crucial for the flavors to fully develop and enhance the dish.

Storage

Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Serving Suggestions

This dip is versatile; feel free to experiment with different types of crackers or presentation styles for serving.

Cook techniques

Food Processor Use

Using a food processor helps achieve the perfect texture for the cranberries. Pulse them until finely chopped, ensuring they remain chunky rather than turning into a purée.

Flavor Marination

Chilling the cranberry-jalapeño mixture for at least 2 hours allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste of the dip.

Cream Cheese Spreading

Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened to room temperature for easy spreading. This ensures a smooth base for your dip.

Layering

Carefully layer the cranberry-jalapeño mixture over the cream cheese to create a visually appealing and tasty dip.

Serving Suggestions

Pair the dip with a variety of dippers, including crackers, tortilla chips, and fresh vegetables to offer diverse texture and flavor experiences.

FAQ

Can I make the dip ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cranberry-jalapeño mixture in advance and store it in the fridge. Just add it to the cream cheese base right before serving.

What can I substitute for cream cheese?

For a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative.

How spicy is this dip?

The spiciness largely depends on the jalapeños used. If you prefer less heat, you can use fewer jalapeños or remove the seeds and membranes.

Can I freeze the dip?

While you can freeze the cranberry-jalapeño mixture, it’s best to freeze it separately and add it fresh to the cream cheese base when ready to serve.

What drinks pair well with this dip?

This dip pairs nicely with sparkling wines, light beers, or refreshing cocktails that balance the sweetness and spiciness of the flavors.

Conclusion

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