Save to Pinterest A vibrant, sweet-and-spicy pizza combining creamy cheese, tangy cranberries, and fresh jalapeños for a unique appetizer or main dish.
The first time I made this pizza, my guests were surprised by the combination of cranberries and jalapeños. Everyone loved the fusion of flavors and it quickly became a requested dish for our potlucks.
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: 12-inch, thin or regular
- Olive oil: 1 tablespoon
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: 1 cup
- Shredded Monterey Jack cheese: 1/2 cup
Instructions
- Prepare crust:
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Place pizza crust on a baking sheet or pizza stone and brush lightly with olive oil.
- Make cranberry jalapeño mix:
- Combine cranberries, jalapeños, green onions, cilantro, sugar, lime juice, and salt. Mix and let sit at least 10 minutes.
- Prepare cheese base:
- Beat together cream cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, and black pepper until smooth.
- Assemble pizza:
- Spread cheese mixture over crust. Sprinkle mozzarella and Monterey Jack cheeses on top.
- Add topping:
- Using a slotted spoon, evenly distribute the cranberry jalapeño mixture (drain excess liquid).
- Bake:
- Bake 12–15 minutes until cheese is melted and crust is golden.
- Finish and serve:
- Remove from oven, cool 5 minutes, slice, and serve warm.
Save to Pinterest Making this pizza with my family has become a holiday tradition. It’s always fun watching everyone enjoy the vibrant colors and bold flavors together.
Required Tools
Oven, baking sheet or pizza stone, mixing bowls, slotted spoon, spatula or knife for spreading
Allergen Information
Contains milk from cheeses and cream cheese, wheat/gluten from pizza crust. Always check labels if using store-bought crusts or cheeses.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 260 calories, 14 g fat, 27 g carbohydrates, 8 g protein
Save to Pinterest Serve this bright, fusion pizza fresh from the oven for the best flavor and texture. It makes a delicious centerpiece for festive gatherings.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What type of crust works best?
Thin or regular prepared pizza crust gives a sturdy base and crisp texture to support toppings.
- → Can I use dried cranberries?
Fresh or frozen cranberries are preferred for tart flavor, but dried cranberries may be used if chopped and hydrated first.
- → How spicy is it?
The heat depends on jalapeño quantity and whether seeds are included. Adjust for mild or bold spice levels.
- → Is this dish vegetarian?
Yes, all listed ingredients are vegetarian, but always check labels on store-bought crust or cheeses.
- → Can I add nuts or extra toppings?
Absolutely—add toasted pecans, walnuts, or extra herbs for crunch and flavor variation.
- → How do I serve leftovers?
Leftovers may be refrigerated and reheated in the oven, preserving crispness and cheese texture.