Begin by placing the cranberries in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add orange juice and sugar. Stir and let simmer for about 10 minutes until cranberries burst.

Finely dice the jalapeno pepper, remove seeds if desired. Stir into the cranberry mixture and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool for 15 minutes.

Place cream cheese on a serving platter or bowl to reach room temperature and ensure it's smooth and creamy.

Spoon the cooled cranberry sauce over the cream cheese, spreading it evenly to create an appealing contrast.

Finely chop the pecans and sprinkle them on top of the cranberry layer. Serve with crackers, bread slices, or apple slices.