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Flavorful Firecracker Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip

firecracker jalapeño cream cheese dip - featured image

A quick and easy spicy cream cheese dip with pickled jalapeños, sharp cheddar, and smoky paprika, perfect for gatherings and snacking.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces (226 grams) cream cheese, softened
  • 23 tablespoons pickled jalapeños, chopped finely
  • 1 cup (about 100 grams) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 stalks green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon fresh lime juice
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • Pinch of freshly ground black pepper
  • Optional: dash of hot sauce or sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Soften the cream cheese by leaving it out at room temperature for 30-45 minutes.
  2. Finely dice 2-3 tablespoons of pickled jalapeños, removing seeds if desired to control heat.
  3. Thinly slice 2 green onion stalks, including the green tops.
  4. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, chopped jalapeños, and green onions.
  5. Add garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to the mixture.
  6. Pour in fresh lime juice and mix thoroughly using a hand mixer or sturdy spoon until smooth but with small chunks visible.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning by adding hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes if more heat is desired.
  8. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor, or serve immediately if preferred.

Notes

Softening cream cheese at room temperature is key to a smooth dip. Avoid overmixing to prevent a gummy texture. The dip tastes better after resting a few hours or overnight. Adjust heat by controlling jalapeño quantity and optional hot sauce. Can be made dairy-free or low-carb with substitutions.

Nutrition

Keywords: jalapeño dip, cream cheese dip, spicy snack, firecracker dip, easy appetizer, party dip, jalapeño cream cheese