Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread is a delicious and easy recipe that you can whip up in no time. This spread is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a party or just want a tasty snack at home. With its creamy texture and sweet-tart flavor, it will surely impress your family and friends!
Why Make This Recipe
Making this Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread is a great way to add a festive touch to your gatherings. It’s simple to prepare, and it requires only a few ingredients. Plus, it pairs well with crackers or bread, making it a versatile appetizer. If you love sweet and savory combinations, this spread will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen!
How to Make Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread
Ingredients:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup fresh or canned cranberries, chopped
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1 tablespoon orange juice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Directions:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped cranberries, and sugar.
- Mix until well combined.
- Stir in the nuts, orange zest, orange juice, and salt.
- Transfer the mixture to a serving dish and refrigerate for at least one hour to let the flavors meld.
- Serve with crackers or bread.
How to Serve Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread
This spread is perfect for serving at holiday gatherings, parties, or just as a delightful snack at home. You can present it on a beautiful platter with a selection of crackers, toasted baguette slices, or even fresh fruit. It adds color and flavor to any table!
How to Store Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread
To keep your Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for about 3 to 5 days. If you make a larger batch, you can also freeze it for up to a month. Just thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.
Tips to Make Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread
- Make sure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature. This helps it mix smoothly with the other ingredients.
- For a thicker spread, use less orange juice.
- Feel free to adjust the sugar based on your sweetness preference. You can even use honey as a natural sweetener!
Variation
You can easily switch things up by adding other ingredients like herbs for a savory twist or using different nuts like almonds or hazelnuts. If you want a spicy kick, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the mix.
FAQs
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Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use dried cranberries, but you may want to reduce the sugar since they are usually sweeter. -
How can I make this vegan?
You can substitute the cream cheese with a vegan cream cheese alternative and use maple syrup instead of sugar. -
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! This spread can be made a day in advance. Just be sure to store it properly in the refrigerator.
