This Cranberry Jalapeño Smoked Cream Cheese is a bold and vibrant appetizer that is as festive as it is flavorful! Fresh cranberries and jalapeños are combined into a tangy sweet and spicy salsa that’s spread over softened cream cheese and lightly smoked on the Traeger. The dish is quick to assemble and can be prepared ahead, making it a stress-free yet impressive option for holiday gatherings. This dish is an ideal dish for holiday parties, game days, or anytime you can get your hands on fresh cranberries!
Cranberry Jalapeño Smoked Cream Cheese
I am always looking for new and fun ways to use fresh cranberries during November and December when the grocery stores always have them in the produce section. This recipe is a play off of a viral TikTok recipe for cranberry salsa, and I’m so happy that I found it!
Simple ingredients plus our favorite, smoked cream cheese, make this dip unique and delicious.
If you don’t have a smoker or pellet grill, you can skip that step. It really just serves to warm up the cream cheese a bit and add a touch of wood-fired flavor to the dish.
How spicy this will wind up being really just depends on how hot your peppers are. You can control the spice level by adjusting how much of the jalapeño you include in the dish.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
- Simple Ingredients: Requires only a handful of fresh and pantry staples.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: The cranberry salsa can be prepared in advance to save time.
- Unique Flavor Profile: Combines creamy, smoky, sweet, and spicy elements in every bite.
- Crowd-Pleasing: Great for holidays, parties, or casual get-togethers.
- Versatile Serving Options: Pairs well with crackers, bread, or fresh veggies.
Get more Smoked Cream Cheese Recipes here!
Cranberry Jalapeño Smoked Cream Cheese shopping list
Wondering if you have to hit the store? Here’s the list of items you’ll need to make this recipe. For specific amounts, please refer to the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post.
Ingredients
- Fresh Cranberries
- Jalapeño (Seeds and Membrane Removed)
- Cilantro (Finely Chopped)
- Lime (Juiced)
- Sugar
- Salt
- Cream Cheese
Try our Smoked Pig Shots!
How to make Smoked Cream Cheese with Cranberry Salsa
This is just the overview so you can see what you’re actually getting into here. When you are cooking, you’ll want to use the full recipe at the bottom of the page.
- Prepare the Salsa: In a food processor, roughly chop cranberries and jalapeño. Add cilantro and pulse to combine. Stir in lime juice, sugar, and salt. Refrigerate for 4+ hours.
- Drain the Salsa: Remove excess liquid before using. Reserve the liquid for a creative use like cocktails.
- Prep the Cream Cheese: Spread cream cheese onto a baking sheet in a ½-inch thick layer.
- Assemble the Dish: Spoon the cranberry salsa over the cream cheese.
- Smoke the Cream Cheese: Place on a preheated smoker at 235°F for 15–20 minutes. Serve with crackers or your favorite dippers.
How about some Smoked Shotgun Shells?
FAQ
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I Reheat the Smoked Cream Cheese?
Reheat in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes, or enjoy it chilled as a spread.
Can This Be Made in Advance?
Yes! The cranberry salsa can be made 1–2 days ahead. Add it to the cream cheese just before smoking.
What Are Good Substitutions for Cilantro?
If you’re not a fan of cilantro, substitute with fresh parsley or green onions for a milder flavor.
Try some Blackstone Smash Lumpia!
Serve This With…
- Crackers or Crostini: Ideal for scooping up the creamy, smoky topping.
- Vegetable Platter: Add celery, carrot sticks, or cucumber slices for a refreshing pairing.
- Smoked Meats: Complements the smoky flavors of ribs or brisket.
- Cocktails: Use the reserved cranberry salsa liquid to make a spicy margarita or festive spritzer.
This Cranberry Jalapeño Smoked Cream Cheese combines convenience and bold flavors in an irresistible appetizer. Its smoky aroma and creamy texture, paired with the fresh, zesty salsa, make it a memorable addition to any table.
More great recipes with cranberries to love!
More Smoked Cream Cheese
Cranberry Jalapeño Smoked Cream Cheese
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh cranberries
- 1 jalapeño seeds and membrane removed
- 1/2 cup cilantro finely chopped
- 1 lime juiced
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 brick cream cheese
Instructions
- In a food processor, add the cranberries and jalapeño and pulse to chop roughly. Add the cilantro and pulse once or twice to chop and combine.
- Squeeze the lime juice into the mixture and stir. Add the sugar and salt, stir, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours to let the flavors meld.
- Drain off the excess liquids from the cranberry mixture. Save it! It makes a great spicy cranberry margarita!
- Preheat your smoker or pellet grill to 235°F. Spread out a brick of cream cheese onto a baking sheet until it is about 1/2″ thick.
- Spoon the drained cranberry salsa over the cream cheese.
- Let smoke for 15-20 minutes.
- Serve with crackers and enjoy!
Tin
Thursday 28th of November 2024
can I add cherries instead of cranberry ?
Nicole Johnson
Thursday 28th of November 2024
You can try! Cherries have a more juicy consistency, but it might work out great. Let me know how it goes!