Print

Cranberry Jalapeno Cheese Spread

cranberry jalapeno cheese spread - featured image
Print Recipe

A festive, creamy cheese spread topped with tangy cranberries and a gentle jalapeno kick—perfect for holiday parties, potlucks, or any gathering. Quick to make, crowd-pleasing, and easily adaptable for various diets.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded sharp white cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries (thawed if frozen)
  • 1 large jalapeno, seeded and finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
  • Pinch of salt
  • Assorted crackers, crostini, pita chips, or fresh veggie sticks for serving
  • Extra cilantro or sliced jalapeno for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a medium mixing bowl, add softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, and sour cream or Greek yogurt.
  2. Beat with a hand mixer on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until fluffy and well combined. Season with a pinch of salt and adjust to taste.
  3. In a small saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, water, and chopped jalapeno.
  4. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Cook for 6-8 minutes until cranberries burst and mixture thickens.
  5. Remove from heat and stir in lime juice. Let cool for 5-10 minutes. Stir in chopped cilantro, if using.
  6. Spread the cheese base evenly onto a serving platter or shallow bowl. Smooth with a spatula.
  7. Spoon the cooled cranberry jalapeno mixture over the cheese layer. Spread gently to cover most of the surface.
  8. Garnish with extra cilantro or sliced jalapeno if desired.
  9. Cover and chill for at least 30 minutes for best flavor and texture, or serve immediately.
  10. Serve with assorted crackers, crostini, pita chips, or veggie sticks.

Notes

For milder heat, use half a jalapeno and remove all seeds. Cheese base and cranberry topping can be made ahead and refrigerated. For dairy-free, use plant-based cheese and yogurt. Serve with gluten-free crackers for a gluten-free option. Add toasted nuts for crunch or swap cranberries for blueberries in summer.

Nutrition

Keywords: cranberry, jalapeno, cheese spread, holiday appetizer, party dip, festive, easy, gluten-free, vegetarian

Find it online: https://fuzzyforker.com/cranberry-jalapeno-cheese-spread-easy-festive-party-appetizer-recipe/