Sweet Heat Cranberry Jalapeño Cheese Spread

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This Sweet Heat Cranberry Jalapeño Cheese Spread is the perfect blend of creamy, tangy, sweet, and spicy all in one irresistible bite. The silky cream cheese base pairs beautifully with bright cranberry sauce, while fresh jalapeños deliver just the right kick. A sprinkle of green onions and crunchy pecans adds layers of flavor and texture, making this spread a festive showstopper for any gathering. Quick to prepare, vibrant to serve, and unbelievably delicious, this recipe is a must-have for your appetizer lineup.

Ingredients

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
  • 1–2 jalapeños, finely chopped (adjust for heat)
  • 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
  • 1/4 cup pecans, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon lime juice
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Crackers or baguette slices, for serving

Instructions

  1. In a mixing bowl, blend the softened cream cheese and cranberry sauce until smooth and creamy.
  2. Fold in the finely chopped jalapeños, green onions, and pecans, ensuring the mix is evenly combined.
  3. Add the honey and lime juice, then season with salt and pepper. Stir well to incorporate all flavors.
  4. Transfer the mixture to a serving dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors develop.
  5. Serve chilled with your favorite crackers or slices of baguette.

Variation

  1. Roasted Jalapeño Version: For a deeper, smokier flavor, roast the jalapeños before chopping them. This softens their heat and adds a warm richness to the spread.
  2. Swap the Pecans: Try toasted walnuts or almonds for a different nutty profile. Each one brings its own crunch and aroma to the dish.
  3. Use Fresh Cranberries: If you prefer a tart punch, fold in chopped fresh cranberries instead of sauce. Add an extra drizzle of honey to balance the acidity.
  4. Herb Boost: Add a tablespoon of fresh cilantro or parsley for a bright, fresh finish that complements both the heat and sweetness.

Cooking Notes

  1. Softening Cream Cheese: Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened; it makes blending with the cranberry sauce much easier and ensures a silky texture.
  2. Taste and Adjust: Jalapeños vary in heat, so taste as you go. You can always add more spice but you can’t take it out.
  3. Chill Time Matters: Allowing the mixture to rest enhances flavor integration and improves the spread’s overall consistency.

Serving Suggestions

  1. Holiday Appetizer Board: Pair this spread with rosemary crackers, soft baguette slices, cured meats, and fresh fruit for a festive, well-rounded presentation.
  2. Sandwich or Wrap Spread: Use it as a flavorful base for turkey sandwiches or veggie wraps to add a sweet-spicy twist.
  3. Dip for Veggies: Serve alongside crisp celery sticks, cucumbers, or bell peppers for a lighter, refreshing option that balances the richness of the cheese.

Tips

  1. Wear Gloves for Jalapeños: When chopping jalapeños, gloves prevent lingering oils from irritating your skin.
  2. Chop Ingredients Evenly: Uniformly chopped nuts and veggies ensure each bite delivers a consistent blend of crunch, heat, and sweetness.
  3. Make Ahead: This spread tastes even better after a few hours. Prepare it the night before to save time and boost flavor intensity.

Prep Time:

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes (includes chilling)

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 150 kcal
  • Protein: ~2 g
  • Sodium: ~115 mg

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I make this cheese spread ahead of time?
    Yes! It actually tastes better after a few hours as the flavors meld beautifully.
  2. How spicy is this recipe?
    The heat level depends on how many jalapeños you use. Start with one and add more as preferred.
  3. Can I make this recipe nut-free?
    Absolutely just omit the pecans or replace them with pumpkin seeds for a similar crunch.
  4. What type of cranberry sauce works best?
    Both homemade and canned varieties work well. Whole-berry cranberry sauce adds more texture.

Conclusion

This Sweet Heat Cranberry Jalapeño Cheese Spread brings together the perfect balance of creamy comfort, fruity brightness, and fiery excitement. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, bringing a dish to a potluck, or simply treating yourself, this vibrant spread is guaranteed to impress. Easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll reach for again and again.

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Sweet Heat Cranberry Jalapeño Cheese Spread

  • Author: Avery
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian
Print Recipe

Description

This Sweet Heat Cranberry Jalapeño Cheese Spread is the perfect blend of creamy, tangy, sweet, and spicy all in one irresistible bite. The silky cream cheese base pairs beautifully with bright cranberry sauce, while fresh jalapeños deliver just the right kick. A sprinkle of green onions and crunchy pecans adds layers of flavor and texture, making this spread a festive showstopper for any gathering. Quick to prepare, vibrant to serve, and unbelievably delicious, this recipe is a must-have for your appetizer lineup.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
  • 1–2 jalapeños, finely chopped (adjust for heat)
  • 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
  • 1/4 cup pecans, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon lime juice
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Crackers or baguette slices, for serving

Instructions

  1. In a mixing bowl, blend the softened cream cheese and cranberry sauce until smooth and creamy.
  2. Fold in the finely chopped jalapeños, green onions, and pecans, ensuring the mix is evenly combined.
  3. Add the honey and lime juice, then season with salt and pepper. Stir well to incorporate all flavors.
  4. Transfer the mixture to a serving dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors develop.
  5. Serve chilled with your favorite crackers or slices of baguette.

Notes

  1. Softening Cream Cheese: Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened; it makes blending with the cranberry sauce much easier and ensures a silky texture.
  2. Taste and Adjust: Jalapeños vary in heat, so taste as you go. You can always add more spice but you can’t take it out.
  3. Chill Time Matters: Allowing the mixture to rest enhances flavor integration and improves the spread’s overall consistency.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: No-cook / Mixed
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 150
  • Sugar: ~7 g
  • Sodium: ~115 mg
  • Fat: ~11 g
  • Saturated Fat: ~6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: ~4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: ~11 g
  • Fiber: ~1 g
  • Protein: ~2 g
  • Cholesterol: ~30 mg

Keywords: cranberry jalapeño cheese spread, sweet heat cheese dip, holiday appetizer, spicy cream cheese spread, cranberry dip

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