Save A festive fusion of creamy, tangy, and spicy cranberry jalapeño dip rolled into pillowy soft Philly-style rolls: perfect for parties or holiday gatherings.
The first time I made these for a holiday get-together, guests couldn't stop talking about the balance of creamy cheese and spicy berries. They disappeared within minutes, and now they're a family tradition every winter.
Ingredients
- Fresh cranberries: 1 cup, finely chopped
- Jalapeño: 1, seeded and finely diced
- Green onions: 1/4 cup, thinly sliced
- Fresh cilantro: 1/4 cup, chopped
- Granulated sugar: 1/2 cup
- Lime juice: 2 tablespoons
- Salt: 1/8 teaspoon
- Cream cheese: 8 oz (225 g), softened
- Dinner rolls: 1 package (12 count) Hawaiian or Philly-style rolls
- Unsalted butter: 2 tablespoons, melted
Instructions
- Mix flavors:
- In a medium bowl, combine cranberries, jalapeño, green onions, cilantro, sugar, lime juice, and salt. Mix well and let sit for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld and cranberries to release juice.
- Prepare cream cheese:
- In a separate bowl, spread the softened cream cheese into an even layer.
- Combine dip:
- Drain excess liquid from the cranberry mixture, then fold it gently into the cream cheese until well combined.
- Prepare rolls:
- Slice the rolls in half horizontally, keeping the bottoms intact as a slab, and place bottom halves in a baking dish.
- Layer dip:
- Evenly spread cranberry jalapeño cream cheese mixture over the bottom layer.
- Finish and bake:
- Place tops back on rolls and brush melted butter over the tops.
- Bake:
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15:20 minutes, or until rolls are warm and tops are golden.
- Serve:
- Remove from oven, allow to cool slightly, separate into rolls, and serve.
Save This dish instantly became our family's favorite to enjoy around the festive table. Everyone looks forward to pulling apart warm, oozy rolls together.
Required Tools
Mixing bowls, serrated knife, baking dish, pastry brush, oven
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cream cheese, butter) and wheat (rolls). May contain egg or soy depending on brand: check labels.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 185, Total Fat: 8 g, Carbohydrates: 25 g, Protein: 4 g
Save Serve these rolls warm for best flavor and texture. They make a striking, festive centerpiece at any gathering.
Common Questions
- → Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?
Fresh cranberries provide the right texture and tartness; dried cranberries may make the filling sweeter and less vibrant.
- → How spicy are these rolls?
The jalapeño adds a mild heat. For more spice, keep some seeds or add a pinch of cayenne to the mixture.
- → Can I prepare the filling ahead?
Yes, you can prepare the cranberry jalapeño mixture up to a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to assemble.
- → Are these suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, all ingredients are vegetarian-friendly. Check the roll packaging for any additional allergens.
- → What type of rolls work best?
Soft dinner rolls like Hawaiian or Philly-style work best. They hold the filling well and bake up tender.
- → Can I use alternative cheeses?
Goat cheese works for a tangier flavor, or you can try Neufchâtel for less fat. Adjust for texture and taste.