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Festive Jalapeño Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip – Easy Appetizer

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A bright, creamy, slightly spicy dip that tastes like December in a bowl. Perfect for holiday gatherings, this quick and easy appetizer combines cream cheese with tart cranberries, spicy jalapeños, and crunchy toasted pecans.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 16 ounces cream cheese, softened (two standard blocks)
  • 1 cup fresh cranberries, roughly chopped (about 4 ounces)
  • 2 medium jalapeño peppers, finely diced (seeds removed for less heat)
  • ½ cup pecans, roughly chopped
  • 3 tablespoons honey
  • Zest from 1 medium orange
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • ¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)
  • Crackers or crostini, for serving

Instructions

  1. Toast the pecans: Place a small skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped pecans and cook, stirring frequently, for 3-4 minutes until fragrant and slightly darker. Transfer to a plate to cool completely.
  2. Soften the cream cheese: Take cream cheese out of fridge 30 minutes before starting. If forgotten, unwrap blocks and microwave on 50% power for 15-20 seconds until soft but not melted.
  3. Mix the base: In a medium mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese with a hand mixer on medium speed until smooth and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Scrape down sides halfway through.
  4. Add flavorings: Drizzle in honey and lime juice, add orange zest and salt. Beat on low speed until combined, about 30 seconds. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  5. Fold in chunky bits: Gently fold in chopped cranberries, diced jalapeño, and cooled toasted pecans with a spatula. Reserve a small handful of each for topping. Do not overmix.
  6. Shape and chill: Transfer mixture to serving platter or shallow bowl. Spread into even layer, creating swirls on top if desired. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate at least 30 minutes.
  7. Garnish and serve: Just before serving, top with reserved cranberries, jalapeño, and pecans. Sprinkle chopped cilantro over everything if using. Serve with crackers, crostini, or fresh veggie sticks.

Notes

Toast pecans every time for best flavor. Seed jalapeños carefully to control heat. Do not overmix cranberries to keep red flecks visible. Let dip rest in fridge for at least 20 minutes for flavors to meld. Make extra as it disappears fast. Can be made up to 3 days ahead. Let sit at room temperature 10-15 minutes before serving if chilled.

Nutrition

Keywords: cream cheese dip, cranberry jalapeño dip, holiday appetizer, easy party dip, festive dip, Thanksgiving appetizer, Christmas appetizer

Find it online: https://coracooks.com/festive-jalape-n-o-cranberry-cream-cheese-dip-easy-appetizer/