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