If I’ve ever fallen in love with a Costco sample, this dip is the reason. I get that perfect mix of sweet cranberries, gentle jalapeño heat, and creamy richness all in one bite. I make this when I want something that feels festive and special but still fits into a busy day without stress. Every time I set it out, it disappears fast, and my kitchen always smells incredible while it chills.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it delivers big flavor with very little effort. I put everything into the food processor, let the fridge do the rest of the work, and end up with a dip that tastes like I spent hours on it. I also like how flexible it is, since I can adjust the spice level easily. It’s make-ahead friendly, crowd-pleasing, and works just as well for holidays as it does for an ordinary weeknight snack.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the cranberry jalapeño mixture
12 oz fresh cranberries
½ cup granulated sugar
1 small bunch green onions, chopped
1–2 jalapeños, seeded and chopped
¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1 tablespoon lime juice
¼ teaspoon salt
For assembly
8 oz cream cheese, softened
Optional garnish: extra cilantro or lime zest
Crackers, tortilla chips, or crostini for serving
Directions
I start by adding the cranberries, sugar, green onions, jalapeños, cilantro, lime juice, and salt to my food processor. I pulse until everything is finely chopped but still has texture, making sure it’s not completely smooth.
I transfer the mixture to a bowl, cover it, and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours, though I prefer letting it sit overnight so the flavors really come together.
When I’m ready to serve, I place the softened cream cheese on a serving plate and gently spread it out or leave it rustic, depending on my mood. I spoon the chilled cranberry jalapeño mixture over the cream cheese and let it sit at room temperature for about 5 to 10 minutes. I finish with a little garnish if I feel fancy and serve it with crackers or chips.
Servings And Timing
I usually get about 8 to 10 servings from this dip, depending on how generous everyone is with scooping. Prep time takes me about 10 minutes, and there’s no cooking involved. The chilling time is at least 2 hours, but overnight is ideal if I plan ahead.
Variations
I sometimes swap the cream cheese for whipped cream cheese when I want a lighter texture. If I want more heat, I leave a few jalapeño seeds in or add an extra pepper. For a slightly different flavor, I’ve added a touch of orange zest to the cranberry mixture, which works beautifully during the holidays.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I keep the cranberry mixture and cream cheese together once assembled. Since this is a no-bake dip, there’s no reheating needed; I just let it sit out for a few minutes so it’s easy to scoop.
FAQs
Can I Make This Dip Ahead Of Time?
I make the cranberry mixture up to two days in advance and keep it refrigerated. I assemble it with the cream cheese shortly before serving for the best texture.
How Spicy Is This Dip?
I find it mild to medium, depending on how many jalapeños I use. Removing the seeds keeps the heat very manageable.
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries?
I prefer fresh cranberries because frozen ones release extra liquid and change the texture of the dip.
What Should I Serve With This Dip?
I usually serve it with crackers, tortilla chips, or crostini, but I’ve also enjoyed it with pretzel thins and fresh veggies.
How Long Does It Last In The Fridge?
In my experience, it stays fresh for up to 3 days when stored properly in an airtight container.
Conclusion
This Cranberry Jalapeño Dip Costco copycat is one of those recipes I keep coming back to because it never fails me. I love how easy it is, how impressive it looks on the table, and how quickly people ask for the recipe. Whenever I need a dependable appetizer that feels a little special without extra work, this dip is exactly what I make.
This Costco-inspired Cranberry Jalapeño Dip is a festive and flavorful appetizer featuring a zesty blend of cranberries, jalapeños, green onions, and cilantro over creamy softened cream cheese. It’s sweet, tangy, and spicy all at once—perfect for holidays or entertaining.
Total Time:2 hours 10 minutes (including chilling)
Yield:8–10 servings
Ingredients
12 oz fresh cranberries
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 small bunch green onions, chopped
1–2 jalapeños, seeded and chopped
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1 tablespoon lime juice
1/4 teaspoon salt
8 oz cream cheese, softened
Optional garnish: extra cilantro or lime zest
Crackers, tortilla chips, or crostini for serving
Instructions
Add cranberries, sugar, green onions, jalapeños, cilantro, lime juice, and salt to a food processor. Pulse until finely chopped but not pureed.
Transfer the mixture to a bowl, cover, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for best flavor.
To serve, spread softened cream cheese on a serving plate or leave it whole. Spoon cranberry jalapeño mixture over the top.
Let sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with cilantro or lime zest if desired. Serve with crackers, chips, or crostini.
Notes
For a spicier dip, leave some jalapeño seeds or add an extra pepper.
Use whipped cream cheese for a lighter texture.
Add orange zest to the cranberry mixture for a holiday twist.
Serve with a variety of dippers like pretzel thins or fresh veggies.
Prepare the cranberry mixture up to 2 days ahead and assemble just before serving.
