Save A vibrant, sweet&and&spicy dip topped with bubbling melted cheddar is perfect for parties or a cozy appetizer.
I first made this for a family game night, and everyone kept going back for more. The combo of tart fruit, bright jalapeños, and creamy cheese had everyone talking!
Ingredients
- Fresh cranberries: 1 cup, coarsely chopped
- Fresh jalapeños: 1&2, seeded and finely diced
- Scallions: 1&4 cup, finely sliced
- Fresh cilantro: 1&4 cup, chopped
- Cream cheese: 8 oz (225 g), softened
- Sharp cheddar cheese: 1 cup (100 g), grated
- Granulated sugar: 2 tbsp
- Lime juice: 1 tbsp, fresh preferred
- Salt: 1&4 tsp
- Black pepper: 1&4 tsp
- Crackers, crostini or pita chips: for serving
Instructions
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Want to enjoy food and feel lighter?
While testing healthy recipes at home, I discovered a simple nutrition guide that helped me understand which everyday foods were quietly slowing fat loss.
It’s not a diet — just smarter food choices that work beautifully with homemade meals like the one you’re making today 🍽️
👉 Discover the guide here*Affiliate link — I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
- Mix salsa:
- In a bowl, combine chopped cranberries, jalapeños, scallions, cilantro, sugar, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well and set aside for 10 minutes so the flavors meld.
- Preheat oven:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Layer cream cheese:
- Spread cream cheese evenly in a small oven-safe baking dish.
- Add salsa:
- Spoon the cranberry-jalapeño mixture evenly over the cream cheese layer.
- Top with cheddar:
- Sprinkle grated cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake:
- Bake for 10 minutes, or until the cheddar is bubbly and lightly golden.
- Serve:
- Remove from oven, let cool slightly, and serve warm with crackers or crostini.
💛 Little tip from my kitchen
Want to enjoy food and feel lighter?
While testing healthy recipes at home, I discovered a simple nutrition guide that helped me understand which everyday foods were quietly slowing fat loss.
It’s not a diet — just smarter food choices that work beautifully with homemade meals like the one you’re making today 🍽️
👉 Discover the guide here*Affiliate link — I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
💛 Little tip from my kitchen
Want to enjoy food and feel lighter?
While testing healthy recipes at home, I discovered a simple nutrition guide that helped me understand which everyday foods were quietly slowing fat loss.
It’s not a diet — just smarter food choices that work beautifully with homemade meals like the one you’re making today 🍽️
👉 Discover the guide here*Affiliate link — I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Save This dish always sparks an impromptu gathering, and my kids love helping sprinkle the cheese before baking.< It is now requested at every holiday get-together in our home.
Required Tools
Mixing bowl, chef's knife, small oven-safe baking dish, oven.
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cream cheese, cheddar). Check all crackers for gluten and other allergens as needed.
Nutritional Information
Each serving provides approximately 180 calories, 13 g total fat, 10 g carbohydrates, and 5 g protein.
Save Serve straight from the oven for best results. The mix of flavors and textures always delights guests!
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?
Fresh cranberries provide a tart, juicy flavor but dried can work in a pinch—use less sugar and soak first for moisture.
- → How do I adjust the spice level?
Remove all seeds from jalapeños for mild heat. Leave some seeds or use extra jalapeños for more kick.
- → Which cheese substitutes well for cheddar?
Monterey Jack is a good choice for milder flavor. Pepper Jack adds extra spice, while Gouda yields creaminess.
- → Is this dish suitable for making ahead?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate ahead of time. Bake just before serving for optimal texture and flavor.
- → What are the best serving accompaniments?
Crackers, crostini, and pita chips are ideal. Fresh vegetable sticks also work well for dipping.
- → Can I make it gluten-free?
The dip itself is gluten-free; just choose gluten-free crackers or chips for serving.