Elevate your holiday gatherings with this irresistible Cranberry Jalapeno Dip from Costco! Our detailed recipe includes pro tips, variations, and troubleshooting for perfect results.

Cranberry Jalapeno Dip: A Festive Flavor Sensation
This vibrant dip is a showstopper at any party, combining the perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors. Replicate Costco’s beloved recipe with our precise instructions and helpful tips.
What You’ll Need:
- 1 (16 ounce) package cream cheese, softened (450g)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (60g)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (120g)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (15g)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh jalapeno peppers (30g)
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries (120g)
- 1 tablespoon honey (15g)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine cream cheese, sugar, and mayonnaise in a mixing bowl.
- Add chopped cilantro, jalapeno peppers, and cranberries to the bowl.
- Mix well and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Spoon the mixture into a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden.
Perfect for the holiday season, this cranberry jalapeno dip is sure to impress your guests with its unique flavor combination.
Cranberry Jalapeno Dip Recipe
This Cranberry Jalapeno Dip, inspired by the popular Costco version, is a sweet and spicy treat perfect for any gathering. To make it, you’ll need the following ingredients: 240 g / 1 cup cream cheese, 120 g / 1/2 cup sour cream, 1/2 cup / 115 g cranberry sauce, 2-3 diced jalapenos, and 1 tablespoon / 15 g chopped fresh cilantro.
The estimated prep time for this Easy Dip Recipe is about 10 minutes, with no cook time required. Simply combine all the ingredients in a bowl and mix until smooth. For an extra kick, adjust the number of jalapenos to your desired level of spiciness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Servings: 8-10
- Temperature: Chill in the refrigerator at 4°C / 39°F before serving
This Quick Appetizer is perfect for parties, game days, or any occasion where you need a delicious and easy-to-make dip. With its unique blend of sweet and spicy flavors, it’s sure to be a hit with your guests.
Ingredients for the Perfect Dip
This Cranberry Jalapeno Dip is bursting with flavor, thanks to a perfect balance of sweet, tart, and spicy. Here’s everything you’ll need to make this crowd-pleasing appetizer:
- 240 g (1 cup) cream cheese, softened
- 120 g (½ cup) granulated sugar
- 120 ml (½ cup) cranberry sauce
- 60 ml (¼ cup) sour cream
- 1 jalapeno pepper, finely chopped (seeds removed for less heat)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Optional Ingredients:
- 15 ml (1 tablespoon) chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish
- 15 ml (1 tablespoon) chopped pecans, for garnish
Easy Cranberry Jalapeno Dip Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide
This creamy, spicy dip is perfect for any gathering, and with our step-by-step instructions, you’ll be making it like a pro in no time.
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for baking the dip.
- Mix the cream cheese and sour cream: In a large mixing bowl, combine 240g (1 cup) of softened cream cheese and 120g (1/2 cup) of sour cream until smooth and creamy.
- Add the diced jalapenos: Add 2-3 diced jalapenos to the mixing bowl and stir until well combined. If you prefer a milder dip, use fewer jalapenos or substitute in some milder peppers.
- Add the cranberry sauce and cheddar cheese: Stir in 240g (1 cup) of cranberry sauce and 120g (1/2 cup) of shredded cheddar cheese until well combined.
- Add the garlic powder and onion powder: Add 1 teaspoon of garlic powder and 1 teaspoon of onion powder to the mixing bowl and stir until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish: Transfer the dip mixture to a 20cm (8-inch) square baking dish or a similar-sized dish.
- Bake the dip: Bake the dip in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until it’s lightly golden brown and set.
- Remove from the oven and let cool: Remove the dip from the oven and let it cool to room temperature.
- Chill the dip in the refrigerator: Transfer the cooled dip to the refrigerator and chill for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve the dip: Serve the chilled dip with your favorite crackers, chips, or vegetables.
Helpful Tips for Achieving the Best Results:
- Use high-quality ingredients: Choose the best-quality cream cheese, sour cream, and cheddar cheese for the best flavor.
- Don’t overbake the dip: Keep an eye on the dip while it’s baking and remove it from the oven when it’s lightly golden brown.
- Chill the dip long enough: Allow the dip to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
With these easy steps and helpful tips, you’ll be making this delicious Cranberry Jalapeno Dip like a pro in no time!

Pro Tips for Flavor Perfection
To create a Cranberry Jalapeno Dip that rivals the Costco version, consider the following expert tips. Consider the balance of sweet and spicy flavors, as this dip’s success relies on this delicate harmony.
Flavor Enhancement
- Use fresh or frozen 240 g / 1 cup of cranberries for the best flavor, as dried cranberries can be too sweet and chewy.
- Adjust the level of heat to your taste by using more or fewer 2-3 jalapeno peppers, seeded and finely chopped.
- Add a squeeze of 2 tablespoons / 30 ml of fresh lime juice to brighten the flavors and balance the richness of the dip.
Avoid common pitfalls like overmixing, which can result in a dip that’s too smooth and loses its texture. Also, be careful not to overbake, as this can cause the dip to dry out. Bake at 180°C / 350°F for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is warm and lightly golden.
Remember, the key to a great Cranberry Jalapeno Dip is balance and restraint. Don’t be afraid to taste and adjust as you go, and don’t overcomplicate the recipe with too many ingredients.
Ingredient Substitutions
Don’t let dietary restrictions stop you from enjoying this delicious Cranberry Jalapeno Dip! Here are some swaps to make it work for you:
- Cream Cheese: For a dairy-free option, try substituting 240 g (1 cup) of softened vegan cream cheese. Brands like Tofutti or Kite Hill work well.
- Sour Cream: Swap out the 120 ml (1/2 cup) of sour cream with an equal amount of dairy-free sour cream or plain vegan yogurt.
Optional Additions:
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeno.
- A tablespoon of chopped fresh cilantro or parsley adds a fresh flavor boost.
Remember to adjust the seasoning to your taste after making any substitutions.
Get Creative with These Delicious Variations
Take your Cranberry Jalapeno Dip to the next level by experimenting with new flavors and toppings. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
-
Bacon Cheddar Variation
Add 120g / 4 oz crumbled cheddar cheese and 120g / 4 oz crispy bacon bits to the dip. This smoky, savory twist pairs perfectly with crackers or chips.
Time adjustment: 5-7 minutes to cook the bacon and melt the cheese.
-
Spicy Pineapple Variation
Mix in 120g / 1 cup diced fresh pineapple and an extra 1-2 tsp of jalapeno peppers for an extra kick. This sweet and spicy combination is perfect for a party.
Time adjustment: 10-15 minutes to thaw and chop the pineapple.
-
Garlic Herb Variation
Add 2 cloves of minced garlic and 10g / 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley to the dip. This aromatic combination is great with pita chips or veggies.
Time adjustment: 2-3 minutes to mince the garlic.
Storage and Shelf Life
To maintain the freshness and flavor of Cranberry Jalapeno Dip, proper storage is essential. Store the dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator at 4°C / 39°F for up to 5 days.
For longer storage, consider freezing. Place the dip in an airtight, freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, removing as much air as possible, and store at -18°C / 0°F for up to 3 months.
When reheating, ensure the dip reaches a minimum of 74°C / 165°F to guarantee food safety. Reheat gently over low heat, stirring frequently, until warmed through. Consume reheated dip within 2 hours of removal from the refrigerator or freezer.
Important Safety Note: Discard the dip if it has been left at room temperature for more than 2 hours or if it shows signs of spoilage, such as an off smell or mold.

Common Dip Dilemmas Solved
Making a perfect Cranberry Jalapeno Dip can be tricky. Here are some common problems and easy fixes to ensure your dip is always delicious:
Too Thick?
- Add more cream cheese: Start with a tablespoon at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Try a splash of milk or sour cream: A tablespoon at a time will thin the dip without altering the flavor too much.
Too Thin?
- Chill the dip thoroughly: This will allow the flavors to meld and the texture to thicken.
- Add more chopped cranberries or jalapeno: These ingredients will add body and thickness to the dip.
Not Spicy Enough?
Add more chopped jalapeno, to taste. Remember, you can always add more heat, but you can’t take it away!
Flavor Adjustments:
- Want it sweeter? Add a tablespoon or two of sugar.
- Want it tangier? Add a squeeze of lime juice.
Nutritional Information
Approximate nutritional values for the Cranberry Jalapeno Dip (serves 16-20):
- Calories: 120 per serving (240g / 1 cup)
- Fat: 10g (12% of daily value), including 1.5g of saturated fat
- Carbohydrates: 10g (4% of daily value), including 2g of fiber
- Protein: 2g
This recipe is suitable for those following a gluten-free diet, but please note that it’s not vegan or dairy-free due to the presence of cream cheese and sour cream.
Please note that exact nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredient brands and measurements used.
- What is the serving temperature for this dip? Serve at room temperature, approximately 20°C / 68°F.
- How long can the dip be stored? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Pair with crackers or chips for a sweet and spicy snack.
- Use as a dip for vegetables, such as carrots or cucumbers.
- Can I make this dip ahead of time?
- What kind of cheese is best for this dip?

Key Takeaways: Mastering the Cranberry Jalapeno Dip
This Cranberry Jalapeno Dip is a crowd-pleaser, but a few key tips can elevate it from good to extraordinary.
- Fresh cranberries are a must! Frozen cranberries won’t yield the same vibrant flavor and texture.
- Don’t shy away from the jalapeno. The heat adds a delightful kick that balances the sweetness of the cranberries. Adjust the amount to your spice preference.
- Cream cheese is the base of this dip, providing a smooth and creamy texture. Make sure it’s softened to room temperature for easy blending.
- Taste and adjust! Add a pinch more sugar if needed, or a squeeze of lime juice for brightness.
- Serve with a variety of dippers like tortilla chips, crackers, or even sliced baguette.
With these simple tips, you’ll be serving up a Cranberry Jalapeno Dip that’s both delicious and impressive.
Enjoy Your Festive Cranberry Jalapeno Dip!
This Cranberry Jalapeno Dip, inspired by the popular Costco recipe, is the perfect addition to any holiday gathering. With its unique blend of sweet and spicy flavors, it’s sure to become a crowd-pleasing favorite. Serve it at your next party and watch it disappear!
As a delicious and easy-to-make holiday appetizer, this dip is ideal for entertaining large groups. The combination of 240 g / 1 cup of fresh or frozen cranberries, 115 g / 1/2 cup of cream cheese, and the subtle heat of jalapeno peppers creates a truly addictive flavor experience.
- Pair it with crackers or chips for a quick snack
- Use it as a dip for vegetables, such as carrots or cucumbers
- Spread it on toast or crostini for a sweet and spicy treat
Try this Cranberry Jalapeno Dip recipe and share your experiences! Whether you’re a fan of spicy foods or just looking for a new twist on traditional holiday appetizers, this dip is sure to impress. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors that will leave your guests wanting more.
