Save A vibrant, sweet&spicy pizza combining creamy cheese, tangy cranberries, and fresh jalapeños for a unique appetizer or main dish.
The first time I made this pizza for friends, everyone was surprised by the playful mix of sweet cranberries and spicy jalapeños. It quickly became a requested favorite at our game nights.
Ingredients
- Fresh or frozen cranberries: 1 cup, chopped
- Fresh jalapeños: 2, seeded and finely diced
- Green onions: 1/4 cup, thinly sliced
- Fresh cilantro: 1/4 cup, chopped
- Granulated sugar: 1/3 cup
- Lime juice: 1 tablespoon
- Salt: 1/4 teaspoon
- Cream cheese: 8 oz (225 g), softened
- Sour cream: 1/4 cup
- Garlic powder: 1/2 teaspoon
- Black pepper: 1/4 teaspoon
- Prepared pizza crust: 1 (12-inch, thin or regular)
- Olive oil: 1 tablespoon
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: 1 cup
- Shredded Monterey Jack cheese: 1/2 cup
Instructions
- Prepare pizza crust:
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the pizza crust on a baking sheet or pizza stone and brush lightly with olive oil.
- Make cranberry jalapeño mix:
- In a bowl, combine cranberries, jalapeños, green onions, cilantro, sugar, lime juice, and salt. Mix well and let sit for at least 10 minutes for flavors to meld.
- Mix cream cheese layer:
- In a separate bowl, beat together cream cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, and black pepper until smooth and spreadable.
- Layer pizza:
- Evenly spread the cream cheese mixture over the prepared pizza crust.
- Add cheeses:
- Sprinkle mozzarella and Monterey Jack cheeses over the cream cheese layer.
- Top with cranberry mixture:
- Using a slotted spoon, top the pizza evenly with the cranberry jalapeño mixture (drain off excess liquid first).
- Bake:
- Bake for 12&15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the crust is golden.
- Slice and serve:
- Remove from oven, let cool for 5 minutes, then cut into slices and serve warm.
Save My kids especially love helping sprinkle the cheese and cranberries on top before baking. Making this pizza together is a highlight of our weekend meals.
Serving Suggestions
This pizza pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc for a balanced meal.
Ingredient Swaps
Try adding toasted pecans or walnuts for crunch, or leave some seeds in the jalapeños for extra heat. You can use gluten-free pizza crust as needed.
Leftover Storage
Store any remaining slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or toaster for best results.
Save This sweet&spicy pizza is sure to be the standout at your next party. Each bite is a delicious surprise!
Recipe FAQ Section
- → Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh or frozen?
Yes, but soak dried cranberries in warm water to soften before chopping and incorporating them into the topping.
- → How can I make this dish spicier?
Leave some seeds in the jalapeños or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for more heat.
- → Is there a gluten-free option for the crust?
Absolutely! Substitute a gluten-free pizza crust to accommodate dietary needs without changing the topping steps.
- → What cheeses can I use if I don’t have Monterey Jack?
Try using all mozzarella, or substitute Monterey Jack with Colby or mild cheddar for a similar texture and flavor.
- → Can I prepare the cranberry-jalapeño mixture ahead?
Yes, make the cranberry-jalapeño topping a few hours ahead and refrigerate to allow the flavors to blend even more.
- → What wine pairs well with this dish?
A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complements the sweet, spicy, and creamy elements beautifully.