Pin It A festive fusion of creamy, tangy, and spicy cranberry jalapeño dip rolled into pillowy soft Philly-style rolls is perfect for parties or holiday gatherings.
I first made these for a holiday potluck, and they disappeared in minutes. Guests raved about the lively twist of jalapeño and cranberries nestled in warm, soft rolls.
Ingredients
- Fresh cranberries: Finely chopped, adds tart fruitiness.
- Jalapeño: Seeded and finely diced for gentle heat.
- Green onions: Thinly sliced for fresh sharpness.
- Fresh cilantro: Chopped for herbal brightness.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens and balances tart cranberries.
- Lime juice: For citrus zip.
- Salt: Enhances all flavors.
- Cream cheese: Softened, creamy base for the dip.
- Dinner rolls: Hawaiian or Philly-style, 12 count, soft and slightly sweet.
- Unsalted butter: Melted for brushing tops of rolls.
Instructions
- Mix Dip Base:
- In a medium bowl, combine cranberries, jalapeño, green onions, cilantro, sugar, lime juice, and salt. Mix well and let sit for 10 minutes to meld flavors.
- Prepare Cream Cheese:
- Spread softened cream cheese evenly in a separate bowl.
- Fold Together:
- Drain excess liquid from cranberry mixture, then gently fold it into the cream cheese until well blended.
- Slice Rolls:
- Slice rolls horizontally, keeping bottoms intact as a slab. Place bottom halves in a baking dish.
- Spread Filling:
- Evenly layer cranberry jalapeño cream cheese mixture on the bottom half of rolls.
- Top and Butter:
- Place tops of rolls back on. Brush melted butter over tops.
- Bake:
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 to 20 minutes until warmed and golden on top.
- Serve:
- Let cool slightly, separate into individual rolls, and serve.
Pin It My family now requests these rolls every year. Making them together in the kitchen has become a tradition full of laughter.
Required Tools
Mixing bowls, serrated knife, baking dish, pastry brush, and oven are all you need.
Nutritional Information
Each roll contains about 185 calories, 8 g total fat, 25 g carbohydrates, and 4 g protein.
Notes
Use goat cheese for a tangier dip, or add cayenne for extra heat if desired.
Pin It This party-perfect appetizer brings color and cheerful flavor to any gathering. Serve warm for best taste and texture.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How spicy are these rolls?
The spice level is mild when jalapeños are seeded. For more heat, keep seeds or add cayenne.
- → Can I make these ahead?
You can prepare the filling a day ahead and assemble just before baking for best texture.
- → What rolls work best for this dish?
Soft, pillowy dinner rolls like Hawaiian or Philly-style yield the best results.
- → Are there cheese substitutions?
Goat cheese adds tanginess and can easily replace cream cheese for a different flavor profile.
- → Are these suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, all ingredients listed are vegetarian, but check roll packaging for hidden animal products.
- → How can I serve these for a party?
Bake, cool slightly, then separate each roll for easy sharing on platter or appetizer tray.
- → What can I pair with these rolls?
Serve with crisp white wine or sparkling cider to complement the sweet-tart flavors.