Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread Recipe
Introduction
Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread is a delightful and festive appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings. Combining creamy cheese with tart dried cranberries, sweet apricots, and a hint of orange zest, this spread comes together in just minutes. Serve it with crackers or sliced baguettes for an easy crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped
- 2 tablespoons orange juice
- 1 teaspoon orange zest, grated
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, whisk together the cream cheese, chopped cranberries, chopped apricots, orange juice, orange zest, and ground ginger until everything is well combined and smooth.
- Step 2: Refrigerate the spread for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
- Step 3: Serve chilled with crackers, fruit, or sliced baguettes for an inviting appetizer.
Tips & Variations
- For added texture, stir in chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts just before serving.
- Substitute dried cherries or raisins for cranberries and apricots for a different fruity twist.
- If you prefer a smoother spread, pulse the mixture briefly in a food processor.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth during the holidays.
Storage
Store the cranberry cream cheese spread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Stir gently before serving if it thickens. It is best served chilled and should not be frozen, as the texture may change upon thawing.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this spread ahead of time?
Yes, this spread tastes even better after sitting overnight in the fridge, as the flavors have time to blend. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate.
What can I serve with cranberry cream cheese spread?
This spread pairs wonderfully with a variety of crackers, sliced baguettes, fresh fruit like apple slices, or crisp vegetables such as celery and carrots.
Print
Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread Recipe
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread is a quick and flavorful holiday appetizer made by blending cream cheese with dried cranberries, apricots, orange juice, and zest. This vibrant and festive spread is perfect for serving with crackers, fruit, or sliced baguettes, and it comes together in just minutes without any cooking required.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped
- 2 tablespoons orange juice
- 1 teaspoon orange zest, grated
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger, optional
Instructions
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the cream cheese, chopped cranberries, chopped apricots, orange juice, orange zest, and ground ginger until well combined and smooth.
- Refrigerate: Cover the spread and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up slightly.
- Serve: Serve the cranberry cream cheese spread with crackers, fresh fruit, or sliced baguettes as a delicious holiday appetizer or snack.
Notes
- For best results, use softened cream cheese to make mixing easier.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of orange juice and zest according to your taste preference.
- You can substitute dried apricots with other dried fruits like figs or dates for a different flavor.
- This spread can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator covered tightly.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: cranberry cream cheese spread, holiday appetizer, no-cook spread, cream cheese dip, festive appetizer, cranberry appetizer
