Apricot Jalapeno Popper Dip
Sweet, spicy, and irresistibly creamy—this cold Apricot Jalapeño Popper Dip is the perfect make-ahead appetizer for game day, potlucks, or last-minute get-togethers. Made with simple ingredients like cream cheese, apricot preserves, cheddar, jalapeño, and green onion, it comes together in minutes and disappears just as fast. Serve with chips, crackers, or fresh veggies for an easy crowd-pleaser on a budget.
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Spoon or spatula (or hand mixer, optional)
- measuring cups
- Small knife and cutting board
- Serving dish (shallow bowl, pie plate, or 8x8 pan)
- Plastic wrap or lid (for chilling)
Ingredients
- 3 blocks cream cheese softened
- ¾ jar apricot preserves
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese reserved for topping
- 3 green onions finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño minced (add more or less to taste)
Instructions
Soften your cream cheese.
- Let the 3 blocks cream cheese sit at room temp for 20–30 minutes so it’s easy to work with. Short on time? Microwave it for 15–20 seconds until soft but not melted.
Mix it all together.
- In a large bowl, combine the 3 blocks cream cheese, ¾ jar apricot preserves, 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, 3 green onions, and 1 jalapeño. Stir until everything is fully combined into a creamy, slightly chunky dip. (A hand mixer makes this extra easy just don’t over mix. You want it to still be slightly chunky. A wooden spoon would also work fine!)
Spread and top.
- Transfer the mixture to a serving dish and smooth it out with a spatula. Sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
Chill and serve.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving, ideally overnight. Don’t skip the chill—it helps the flavors meld.
Notes
- Adjust the heat: For a milder dip, remove the seeds and ribs from the jalapeño or use less. For extra heat, leave them in or add a second pepper.
- Let it chill: Chilling the dip for at least 30 minutes helps the flavors meld and makes it easier to scoop.
- Make it ahead: This dip can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored covered in the fridge—perfect for busy party prep!
- Leftovers: Spread leftovers on crackers, sandwiches, or wrap them in crescent roll dough and bake for a tasty twist.
- Serving size tip: This recipe makes enough for 10–12 generous appetizer servings—great for game day, holidays, or potlucks.