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Minute Cranberry Jalapeño Dip Irresistible Flavor Burst

by on June 27, 2025

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Get ready to elevate your snack game with my Minute Cranberry Jalapeño Dip! This simple recipe combines the tartness of fresh cranberries with the kick of jalapeños, all wrapped in a creamy base. Perfect for gatherings or a quick treat at home, this dip is a flavor explosion. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to make this dip a hit at your next event!

- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries - 1-2 fresh jalapeños, seeded and finely diced - 1 cup cream cheese, at room temperature - 1/2 cup Greek yogurt - 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup, to taste - 1/4 teaspoon sea salt - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper - 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, finely chopped (optional) - Tortilla chips or crisp vegetable sticks (such as carrot or cucumber) for serving To make this dip, you need a few key ingredients. First, cranberries bring a tangy and sweet flavor. You can use fresh or frozen cranberries, depending on what you have. Next, jalapeños add a spicy kick. Remove the seeds for less heat. Cream cheese gives the dip a rich and creamy base. Greek yogurt adds a nice tang and lightness. Sweetness comes from honey or maple syrup. Use sea salt and black pepper to enhance the flavors. If you want a fresh touch, add cilantro. This is optional but can brighten the dip. Finally, serve it with tortilla chips or crunchy vegetable sticks. These make great dippers and add texture. {{ingredient_image_2}} To start, you need to prepare the cranberries. If you choose fresh cranberries, rinse them well under cold water. This step helps remove any dirt or impurities. Look for bruised ones and toss them out. If you use frozen cranberries, make sure they are completely thawed. Gently drain any excess water. This keeps your dip from becoming too watery. Next, grab your blender or food processor. Place the rinsed cranberries into it. Then, add the diced jalapeños, cream cheese, Greek yogurt, honey or maple syrup, sea salt, and ground black pepper. It's key to add these in this order. This way, everything blends together nicely. Now, blend the mixture on medium speed. Keep blending until it becomes smooth and creamy. If you like your dip spicier, add more diced jalapeño. Blend again to mix it in well. Achieving that perfect texture is important for a great dip. After blending, it's time to taste your dip. If it needs more sweetness, drizzle in some more honey or maple syrup. Adjust the salt and pepper to your liking. Pulse the blender briefly again to mix these new ingredients. This step ensures that every bite is just right. Once your dip tastes great, transfer it to a nice serving bowl. If you decided to use cilantro, gently fold it in now. This adds a fresh taste and bright color. A great presentation can impress your guests. Chilling your dip is key. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap. Let it chill in the fridge for at least 10 minutes. This time allows the flavors to blend beautifully. It makes a big difference in taste. For serving, present your dip with tortilla chips or crunchy vegetable sticks. Carrots and cucumbers work well too. These pairs make it easy for everyone to enjoy your tasty creation. A colorful platter adds a fun touch for gatherings. Prepping ingredients makes this dip fast and easy. You can rinse cranberries and chop jalapeños ahead of time. Store them in the fridge until you’re ready to blend. This will save you time during busy moments. Adjust the heat to fit your taste. If you want more spice, add one more jalapeño. For a milder dip, use just half a jalapeño. You can also try sweet peppers for a gentle flavor. This way, everyone can enjoy the dip. Softened cream cheese is key for a smooth dip. Let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before mixing. When blending, start on low speed. Gradually increase to medium speed for the best creamy texture. This helps avoid lumps and gives a velvety finish. Pro Tips Fresh vs. Frozen Cranberries: If using fresh cranberries, make sure to sort through them to remove any bruised ones. If using frozen, ensure they are completely thawed to avoid excess moisture in the dip. Adjusting Spice Level: For a spicier dip, add more diced jalapeños gradually. Always blend and taste before adding more to find the perfect heat level for your palate. Make Ahead: This dip can be made a few hours in advance. Chilling it allows the flavors to develop more fully, making it even tastier when served. Serving Suggestions: Pair the dip with a variety of dippers besides tortilla chips. Crisp vegetable sticks like celery, bell peppers, or cucumber also complement the flavors beautifully. {{image_4}} You can make this dip even better by adding garlic or onion. Just chop them finely and blend them with the other ingredients. Garlic gives a nice, rich taste, while onion adds sweetness. Both pair well with cranberries and jalapeños. You might also try different herbs. Fresh cilantro is great, but you can use parsley or chives for a new twist. These herbs brighten the dip and add color. Experiment with what you have on hand to find your favorite mix. If you want to make a vegan version, swap the cream cheese for a plant-based option. There are many brands that taste great and work well in dips. For the yogurt, use a dairy-free alternative made from coconut, almond, or cashew. For gluten-free options, serve this dip with veggie sticks like carrots or cucumbers. You can also use gluten-free tortilla chips. Enjoying this dip is easy, no matter your diet. Using seasonal fruits can change the flavor of your dip. In fall, try adding diced apples or pears for a sweet crunch. In summer, fresh peaches or berries can add a refreshing twist. These fruits will keep the dip exciting and fun throughout the year. Try different fruits to see which you like best! To keep your cranberry jalapeño dip fresh, store it in the fridge. Use an airtight container to prevent moisture loss. This will help keep the dip creamy and flavorful. Make sure to seal the lid tightly. If you have extra dip, consider dividing it into smaller portions for easy access. You can freeze this dip for later use. Place it in a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top for expansion. Wrap the container in plastic wrap for extra protection. When you want to eat it, let it thaw in the fridge overnight. Re-mix it before serving to restore its creamy texture. In the fridge, the dip lasts about 3-5 days. Always check for signs of spoilage before enjoying it again. Look for changes in color or a sour smell. If the dip seems off, it’s best to discard it. Enjoy your dip while it’s fresh for the best flavor! Yes, you can prepare this dip early. To do this, follow these steps: - Make the dip and blend all the ingredients as usual. - Transfer it to a bowl and cover it tightly with plastic wrap. - Store it in the fridge for up to two days. - Just remember to stir it before serving, as it may thicken. Making the dip ahead saves time. You can focus on other tasks on the day of your gathering. The spice level depends on the jalapeños you use. Jalapeños can be mild or hot. Here’s how to manage the heat: - For a milder dip, use one jalapeño and remove the seeds. - For a spicier kick, add more jalapeños or keep some seeds. - You can always taste the mix before serving. Adjust the spice as needed. This way, you can find the perfect balance for your taste buds. This dip pairs well with many snacks. Here are some great options: - Tortilla chips for a crunchy bite. - Crisp vegetable sticks like carrots, cucumbers, or bell peppers. - Crackers for a classic option. - Toasted baguette slices for a gourmet touch. These options add variety and make your serving table look inviting. Using dried cranberries changes the dip's taste and texture. Here’s what to know: - Dried cranberries are sweeter and chewier than fresh ones. - They will make the dip thicker and sweeter. - If you choose dried cranberries, cut back on the honey or maple syrup. This swap can create a unique flavor, but it won’t have the same freshness as the original dip. This article shared how to make a tasty cranberry jalapeño dip. We covered the needed ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips. You can adjust spice levels and even try different flavors for a unique twist. Remember to chill the dip for the best taste. Whether you serve it at a party or enjoy it yourself, this dip is sure to impress. Get creative and have fun while making it!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Unique Flavor Combination: The tartness of cranberries perfectly complements the spicy kick of jalapeños, creating a delightful taste experience.
  2. Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps and minimal prep time, this dip can be whipped up in no time, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings.
  3. Versatile Serving Options: Whether served with tortilla chips or fresh vegetable sticks, this dip is a crowd-pleaser that suits various tastes and dietary preferences.
  4. Customizable Heat Level: You can easily adjust the spiciness by adding more or fewer jalapeños, making it adaptable to your guests’ preferences.

Ingredients

List of Required Ingredients

– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries

– 1-2 fresh jalapeños, seeded and finely diced

– 1 cup cream cheese, at room temperature

– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt

– 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup, to taste

– 1/4 teaspoon sea salt

– 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

– 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, finely chopped (optional)

– Tortilla chips or crisp vegetable sticks (such as carrot or cucumber) for serving

To make this dip, you need a few key ingredients. First, cranberries bring a tangy and sweet flavor. You can use fresh or frozen cranberries, depending on what you have. Next, jalapeños add a spicy kick. Remove the seeds for less heat.

Cream cheese gives the dip a rich and creamy base. Greek yogurt adds a nice tang and lightness. Sweetness comes from honey or maple syrup. Use sea salt and black pepper to enhance the flavors.

If you want a fresh touch, add cilantro. This is optional but can brighten the dip. Finally, serve it with tortilla chips or crunchy vegetable sticks. These make great dippers and add texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Cranberries

To start, you need to prepare the cranberries. If you choose fresh cranberries, rinse them well under cold water. This step helps remove any dirt or impurities. Look for bruised ones and toss them out. If you use frozen cranberries, make sure they are completely thawed. Gently drain any excess water. This keeps your dip from becoming too watery.

Blending the Ingredients

Next, grab your blender or food processor. Place the rinsed cranberries into it. Then, add the diced jalapeños, cream cheese, Greek yogurt, honey or maple syrup, sea salt, and ground black pepper. It’s key to add these in this order. This way, everything blends together nicely.

Achieving the Right Consistency

Now, blend the mixture on medium speed. Keep blending until it becomes smooth and creamy. If you like your dip spicier, add more diced jalapeño. Blend again to mix it in well. Achieving that perfect texture is important for a great dip.

Tasting and Adjusting Flavors

After blending, it’s time to taste your dip. If it needs more sweetness, drizzle in some more honey or maple syrup. Adjust the salt and pepper to your liking. Pulse the blender briefly again to mix these new ingredients. This step ensures that every bite is just right.

Incorporating Fresh Ingredients

Once your dip tastes great, transfer it to a nice serving bowl. If you decided to use cilantro, gently fold it in now. This adds a fresh taste and bright color. A great presentation can impress your guests.

Chilling for Flavor

Chilling your dip is key. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap. Let it chill in the fridge for at least 10 minutes. This time allows the flavors to blend beautifully. It makes a big difference in taste.

Serving Suggestions

For serving, present your dip with tortilla chips or crunchy vegetable sticks. Carrots and cucumbers work well too. These pairs make it easy for everyone to enjoy your tasty creation. A colorful platter adds a fun touch for gatherings.

Tips & Tricks

Quick Preparation Hacks

Prepping ingredients makes this dip fast and easy. You can rinse cranberries and chop jalapeños ahead of time. Store them in the fridge until you’re ready to blend. This will save you time during busy moments.

Customizing Spice Levels

Adjust the heat to fit your taste. If you want more spice, add one more jalapeño. For a milder dip, use just half a jalapeño. You can also try sweet peppers for a gentle flavor. This way, everyone can enjoy the dip.

Ensuring Creamy Texture

Softened cream cheese is key for a smooth dip. Let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before mixing. When blending, start on low speed. Gradually increase to medium speed for the best creamy texture. This helps avoid lumps and gives a velvety finish.

Pro Tips

  1. Fresh vs. Frozen Cranberries: If using fresh cranberries, make sure to sort through them to remove any bruised ones. If using frozen, ensure they are completely thawed to avoid excess moisture in the dip.
  2. Adjusting Spice Level: For a spicier dip, add more diced jalapeños gradually. Always blend and taste before adding more to find the perfect heat level for your palate.
  3. Make Ahead: This dip can be made a few hours in advance. Chilling it allows the flavors to develop more fully, making it even tastier when served.
  4. Serving Suggestions: Pair the dip with a variety of dippers besides tortilla chips. Crisp vegetable sticks like celery, bell peppers, or cucumber also complement the flavors beautifully.

Variations

Different Flavor Profiles

You can make this dip even better by adding garlic or onion. Just chop them finely and blend them with the other ingredients. Garlic gives a nice, rich taste, while onion adds sweetness. Both pair well with cranberries and jalapeños.

You might also try different herbs. Fresh cilantro is great, but you can use parsley or chives for a new twist. These herbs brighten the dip and add color. Experiment with what you have on hand to find your favorite mix.

Dietary Adaptations

If you want to make a vegan version, swap the cream cheese for a plant-based option. There are many brands that taste great and work well in dips. For the yogurt, use a dairy-free alternative made from coconut, almond, or cashew.

For gluten-free options, serve this dip with veggie sticks like carrots or cucumbers. You can also use gluten-free tortilla chips. Enjoying this dip is easy, no matter your diet.

Seasonal Ingredients

Using seasonal fruits can change the flavor of your dip. In fall, try adding diced apples or pears for a sweet crunch. In summer, fresh peaches or berries can add a refreshing twist. These fruits will keep the dip exciting and fun throughout the year. Try different fruits to see which you like best!

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To keep your cranberry jalapeño dip fresh, store it in the fridge. Use an airtight container to prevent moisture loss. This will help keep the dip creamy and flavorful. Make sure to seal the lid tightly. If you have extra dip, consider dividing it into smaller portions for easy access.

Freezing Tips

You can freeze this dip for later use. Place it in a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top for expansion. Wrap the container in plastic wrap for extra protection. When you want to eat it, let it thaw in the fridge overnight. Re-mix it before serving to restore its creamy texture.

Shelf Life

In the fridge, the dip lasts about 3-5 days. Always check for signs of spoilage before enjoying it again. Look for changes in color or a sour smell. If the dip seems off, it’s best to discard it. Enjoy your dip while it’s fresh for the best flavor!

FAQs

Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dip early. To do this, follow these steps:

– Make the dip and blend all the ingredients as usual.

– Transfer it to a bowl and cover it tightly with plastic wrap.

– Store it in the fridge for up to two days.

– Just remember to stir it before serving, as it may thicken.

Making the dip ahead saves time. You can focus on other tasks on the day of your gathering.

How spicy is this dip?

The spice level depends on the jalapeños you use. Jalapeños can be mild or hot. Here’s how to manage the heat:

– For a milder dip, use one jalapeño and remove the seeds.

– For a spicier kick, add more jalapeños or keep some seeds.

– You can always taste the mix before serving. Adjust the spice as needed.

This way, you can find the perfect balance for your taste buds.

What can I serve with cranberry jalapeño dip?

This dip pairs well with many snacks. Here are some great options:

– Tortilla chips for a crunchy bite.

– Crisp vegetable sticks like carrots, cucumbers, or bell peppers.

– Crackers for a classic option.

– Toasted baguette slices for a gourmet touch.

These options add variety and make your serving table look inviting.

Can I use dried cranberries instead?

Using dried cranberries changes the dip’s taste and texture. Here’s what to know:

– Dried cranberries are sweeter and chewier than fresh ones.

– They will make the dip thicker and sweeter.

– If you choose dried cranberries, cut back on the honey or maple syrup.

This swap can create a unique flavor, but it won’t have the same freshness as the original dip.

This article shared how to make a tasty cranberry jalapeño dip. We covered the needed ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips. You can adjust spice levels and even try different flavors for a unique twist. Remember to chill the dip for the best taste.

Whether you serve it at a party or enjoy it yourself, this dip is sure to impress. Get creative and have fun while making i

- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries - 1-2 fresh jalapeños, seeded and finely diced - 1 cup cream cheese, at room temperature - 1/2 cup Greek yogurt - 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup, to taste - 1/4 teaspoon sea salt - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper - 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, finely chopped (optional) - Tortilla chips or crisp vegetable sticks (such as carrot or cucumber) for serving To make this dip, you need a few key ingredients. First, cranberries bring a tangy and sweet flavor. You can use fresh or frozen cranberries, depending on what you have. Next, jalapeños add a spicy kick. Remove the seeds for less heat. Cream cheese gives the dip a rich and creamy base. Greek yogurt adds a nice tang and lightness. Sweetness comes from honey or maple syrup. Use sea salt and black pepper to enhance the flavors. If you want a fresh touch, add cilantro. This is optional but can brighten the dip. Finally, serve it with tortilla chips or crunchy vegetable sticks. These make great dippers and add texture. {{ingredient_image_2}} To start, you need to prepare the cranberries. If you choose fresh cranberries, rinse them well under cold water. This step helps remove any dirt or impurities. Look for bruised ones and toss them out. If you use frozen cranberries, make sure they are completely thawed. Gently drain any excess water. This keeps your dip from becoming too watery. Next, grab your blender or food processor. Place the rinsed cranberries into it. Then, add the diced jalapeños, cream cheese, Greek yogurt, honey or maple syrup, sea salt, and ground black pepper. It's key to add these in this order. This way, everything blends together nicely. Now, blend the mixture on medium speed. Keep blending until it becomes smooth and creamy. If you like your dip spicier, add more diced jalapeño. Blend again to mix it in well. Achieving that perfect texture is important for a great dip. After blending, it's time to taste your dip. If it needs more sweetness, drizzle in some more honey or maple syrup. Adjust the salt and pepper to your liking. Pulse the blender briefly again to mix these new ingredients. This step ensures that every bite is just right. Once your dip tastes great, transfer it to a nice serving bowl. If you decided to use cilantro, gently fold it in now. This adds a fresh taste and bright color. A great presentation can impress your guests. Chilling your dip is key. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap. Let it chill in the fridge for at least 10 minutes. This time allows the flavors to blend beautifully. It makes a big difference in taste. For serving, present your dip with tortilla chips or crunchy vegetable sticks. Carrots and cucumbers work well too. These pairs make it easy for everyone to enjoy your tasty creation. A colorful platter adds a fun touch for gatherings. Prepping ingredients makes this dip fast and easy. You can rinse cranberries and chop jalapeños ahead of time. Store them in the fridge until you’re ready to blend. This will save you time during busy moments. Adjust the heat to fit your taste. If you want more spice, add one more jalapeño. For a milder dip, use just half a jalapeño. You can also try sweet peppers for a gentle flavor. This way, everyone can enjoy the dip. Softened cream cheese is key for a smooth dip. Let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before mixing. When blending, start on low speed. Gradually increase to medium speed for the best creamy texture. This helps avoid lumps and gives a velvety finish. Pro Tips Fresh vs. Frozen Cranberries: If using fresh cranberries, make sure to sort through them to remove any bruised ones. If using frozen, ensure they are completely thawed to avoid excess moisture in the dip. Adjusting Spice Level: For a spicier dip, add more diced jalapeños gradually. Always blend and taste before adding more to find the perfect heat level for your palate. Make Ahead: This dip can be made a few hours in advance. Chilling it allows the flavors to develop more fully, making it even tastier when served. Serving Suggestions: Pair the dip with a variety of dippers besides tortilla chips. Crisp vegetable sticks like celery, bell peppers, or cucumber also complement the flavors beautifully. {{image_4}} You can make this dip even better by adding garlic or onion. Just chop them finely and blend them with the other ingredients. Garlic gives a nice, rich taste, while onion adds sweetness. Both pair well with cranberries and jalapeños. You might also try different herbs. Fresh cilantro is great, but you can use parsley or chives for a new twist. These herbs brighten the dip and add color. Experiment with what you have on hand to find your favorite mix. If you want to make a vegan version, swap the cream cheese for a plant-based option. There are many brands that taste great and work well in dips. For the yogurt, use a dairy-free alternative made from coconut, almond, or cashew. For gluten-free options, serve this dip with veggie sticks like carrots or cucumbers. You can also use gluten-free tortilla chips. Enjoying this dip is easy, no matter your diet. Using seasonal fruits can change the flavor of your dip. In fall, try adding diced apples or pears for a sweet crunch. In summer, fresh peaches or berries can add a refreshing twist. These fruits will keep the dip exciting and fun throughout the year. Try different fruits to see which you like best! To keep your cranberry jalapeño dip fresh, store it in the fridge. Use an airtight container to prevent moisture loss. This will help keep the dip creamy and flavorful. Make sure to seal the lid tightly. If you have extra dip, consider dividing it into smaller portions for easy access. You can freeze this dip for later use. Place it in a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top for expansion. Wrap the container in plastic wrap for extra protection. When you want to eat it, let it thaw in the fridge overnight. Re-mix it before serving to restore its creamy texture. In the fridge, the dip lasts about 3-5 days. Always check for signs of spoilage before enjoying it again. Look for changes in color or a sour smell. If the dip seems off, it’s best to discard it. Enjoy your dip while it’s fresh for the best flavor! Yes, you can prepare this dip early. To do this, follow these steps: - Make the dip and blend all the ingredients as usual. - Transfer it to a bowl and cover it tightly with plastic wrap. - Store it in the fridge for up to two days. - Just remember to stir it before serving, as it may thicken. Making the dip ahead saves time. You can focus on other tasks on the day of your gathering. The spice level depends on the jalapeños you use. Jalapeños can be mild or hot. Here’s how to manage the heat: - For a milder dip, use one jalapeño and remove the seeds. - For a spicier kick, add more jalapeños or keep some seeds. - You can always taste the mix before serving. Adjust the spice as needed. This way, you can find the perfect balance for your taste buds. This dip pairs well with many snacks. Here are some great options: - Tortilla chips for a crunchy bite. - Crisp vegetable sticks like carrots, cucumbers, or bell peppers. - Crackers for a classic option. - Toasted baguette slices for a gourmet touch. These options add variety and make your serving table look inviting. Using dried cranberries changes the dip's taste and texture. Here’s what to know: - Dried cranberries are sweeter and chewier than fresh ones. - They will make the dip thicker and sweeter. - If you choose dried cranberries, cut back on the honey or maple syrup. This swap can create a unique flavor, but it won’t have the same freshness as the original dip. This article shared how to make a tasty cranberry jalapeño dip. We covered the needed ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips. You can adjust spice levels and even try different flavors for a unique twist. Remember to chill the dip for the best taste. Whether you serve it at a party or enjoy it yourself, this dip is sure to impress. Get creative and have fun while making it!

Cranberry Jalapeño Fusion Dip

A zesty and creamy dip combining cranberries and jalapeños, perfect for parties.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
  • 1 to 2 fresh jalapeños, seeded and finely diced
  • 1 cup cream cheese, at room temperature
  • 1 2 Greek yogurt
  • 1 4 cup honey or maple syrup, to taste
  • 1 4 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1 4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, finely chopped (optional)
  • 1 serving tortilla chips or crisp vegetable sticks for serving

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the cranberries: If using fresh cranberries, rinse them well under cold water, sorting out any that are bruised. If opting for frozen, ensure they are completely thawed and gently drain any excess moisture.
  • Blend the ingredients: In a high-powered blender or food processor, combine the prepared cranberries, diced jalapeños, softened cream cheese, Greek yogurt, honey or maple syrup, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
  • Achieve the right consistency: Blend the mixture on medium speed until it reaches a smooth and creamy texture. For a spicier dip, add more diced jalapeño and blend again.
  • Taste and adjust: After blending, taste the dip. If you prefer a sweeter flavor, drizzle in more honey or maple syrup. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt or pepper as needed.
  • Incorporate freshness: Transfer the dip to a serving bowl. If using cilantro, gently fold it into the dip.
  • Chill to enhance flavors: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the dip chill in the refrigerator for at least 10 minutes.
  • Serve with style: Present the dip alongside a platter of tortilla chips or an assortment of crunchy vegetable sticks for dipping.

Notes

Chill the dip for at least 10 minutes to enhance flavors.
Keyword appetizer, cranberry, dip, jalapeño, party food

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