Delicious Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread Recipe

Indulge in the delightful flavors of the holiday season with this mouthwatering Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread. Perfect for impromptu gatherings or cozy afternoons, this tangy and creamy spread is a festive addition to any cheese board or a vibrant snack option that requires almost zero effort to prepare. The burst of orange zest in every bite adds a refreshing twist, reminiscent of cherished family holiday traditions.

Crafted to perfection, this Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread has become a beloved staple at holiday brunches, thanks to its easy-to-love flavors and versatile nature. Whether you’re hosting a last-minute get-together or simply craving a special treat, this spread promises to elevate any occasion with its vibrant red cranberry and orange flecks, adding a touch of festive cheer to your table. Make it ahead of time, let the flavors mingle, and serve chilled with your favorite crackers or bread for a delightful culinary experience.

Quick Benefits

• Quick and easy entertaining option
• Festive and vibrant addition to cheese boards or snacks
• Versatile – can be used on crackers, crostini, sandwiches, or as a bagel schmear
• Can be made ahead and stays fresh in the fridge for several days

Why You’ll Love This Delicious Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread Recipe Recipe

• Effortless Entertaining: Perfect for quick entertaining or cozy afternoons with almost zero effort required.
• Versatile Flavor: Tangy and creamy spread with a burst of orange zest that brightens any cheese board or snack.
• Traditional Favorite: Instantly became a holiday brunch tradition and a requested favorite by family members.
• Holiday Festivity: Adds a festive touch to any winter table with its vibrant red cranberry and orange flecks.
• Customizable: Easily switch out cranberries for cherries, apricots for figs, or add lemon zest for a tangier twist.
• Long-Lasting: Can be stored in the fridge for up to five days in an airtight container, maintaining its spreadable consistency.
• Party Pleaser: Can be served on crackers, crostini, pumpernickel rounds, sandwiches, bagels, or even piped into celery sticks for a fun party bite.
• Make-Ahead: Flavors meld together when made a few hours in advance, making it an ideal dish for gatherings and snacks.

Ingredients for Delicious Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread Recipe

Dairy and Fruit

• 1/2 cup dried cranberries, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon grated orange zest
• 1/2 cup dried apricots, finely chopped
• 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened

Pro Tips for Delicious Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread Recipe

For the Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread, consider using dried cranberries for their sweetness and chewy texture, but feel free to experiment with fresh cranberries for a tangier kick. Adding a touch of sweetener can help balance the tartness of fresh cranberries if you choose to use them.

To enhance the flavor profile, try substituting dried cherries, golden raisins, or chopped figs for the dried apricots while keeping the quantities consistent. This simple tweak can give the spread a unique twist and cater to different taste preferences.

For optimal taste and texture, prepare the spread a few hours in advance and let it chill in the refrigerator. Serving it chilled with buttery crackers, crispy crostini, or toasted baguette slices will complement the creamy and fruity elements, making it a delightful addition to your entertaining spread.

How to Make Delicious Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Base

In a large mixing bowl, use a spatula or hand mixer to beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.

Step 2: Combine Fruit and Zest

Combine chopped dried cranberries, chopped dried apricots, and grated orange zest with the cream cheese. Blend until well mixed.

Step 3: Chill and Set

Place the spread in a serving bowl, cover it, and refrigerate until cold.

Step 4: Serve with Accompaniments

Serve the chilled spread with a variety of crackers, crostini, or toasted baguette slices.

Storage Tips

To store the finished Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread, place any leftovers in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. The spread will stay fresh and spreadable for several days. If the texture becomes stiff after chilling, simply stir it well to revive the creamy consistency. It is not recommended to freeze the spread, as the cream cheese can change texture and become less appealing.

For a different flavor twist, consider using dried cherries, golden raisins, or chopped figs as alternatives to dried apricots in the spread. These variations can offer unique taste profiles while maintaining the overall balance of the dish. Remember to keep the quantities of the substitute ingredients similar to maintain the intended texture and flavor of the spread.

For optimal texture and flavor, prepare the Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread a few hours ahead of serving and keep it chilled until ready to enjoy. Serving it with buttery crackers, crispy crostini, or toasted baguette slices can complement the creamy and fruity elements of the spread, making it a versatile and delicious addition to your gatherings and everyday snacks.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer a more tart flavor, you can swap the dried cranberries for chopped fresh cranberries. Keep in mind that fresh cranberries may add extra tartness, so you might want to adjust the sweetness level by adding a touch of sweetener to the spread.

For a flavor variation, consider using dried cherries, golden raisins, or chopped dried figs in place of the dried apricots. These substitutions will provide a different taste profile while maintaining the overall texture and consistency of the spread.

To ensure the best texture and flavor, store any leftover spread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. Before serving, give it a good stir to revive the creamy consistency. This spread pairs beautifully with buttery crackers, crispy crostini, or toasted baguette slices, offering a delightful balance of creamy and fruity elements.

Serving Suggestions

This Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread is a versatile and festive addition to any gathering. For a creative presentation, try piping the spread into celery sticks for a crunchy and creamy appetizer. The burst of orange zest complements the tangy cranberries and apricots, making it a delightful snack for holiday brunches or cozy afternoons.

To elevate your cheese board, serve this spread alongside a variety of crackers, crostini, or pumpernickel rounds. The vibrant red and orange colors of the spread will add a festive touch to your table, perfect for holiday entertaining. Make sure to prepare this ahead of time to allow the flavors to meld together, ensuring a delicious and creamy consistency when served.

FAQs for Delicious Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread Recipe

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried cranberries in this recipe?

Yes, you can use chopped fresh cranberries for a tart flavor. Consider adding a touch of sweetener to balance the taste.

What other dried fruits can I use in this cream cheese spread?

You can try dried cherries, golden raisins, or figs for a different flavor twist, keeping the same quantities in the mixture.

How long can I store this cream cheese spread, and how should I store it?

Store the spread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. Stir before serving for the best consistency.

Should I prepare this spread in advance before serving?

Yes, it’s recommended to make this spread a few hours ahead and serve it chilled. This allows the flavors to meld together, making it ideal for entertaining.

Conclusion

I hope you enjoy making and sharing this delightful Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread with your loved ones as much as I do. It’s a versatile and festive addition to any gathering, whether you’re hosting a holiday brunch or a cozy afternoon get-together. The burst of orange zest adds a special touch that always brings back memories of family gatherings and traditions.

Remember to get creative with your spread by experimenting with different dried fruits and zests to suit your taste preferences. This recipe is all about making it your own and enjoying the process of creating something delicious to share with others. So go ahead, spread the love with this Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread and watch it become a staple at your table!

Thank you for joining me in making this Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread recipe a part of your culinary repertoire. I can’t wait for you to experience the joy of sharing this flavorful and creamy spread with your friends and family. Happy spreading!

Delicious Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread Recipe

“Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread – A festive, tangy twist with cranberries, apricots, and orange zest, perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy snacking.”

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time10 min

Cook Time~ undefined

Total Time10 min

CuisineAmerican

Skill LevelEasy

Servings12 Servings (Approximately 1 1/2 cups spread)

Ingredients

Dairy and Fruit

• 1/2 cup dried cranberries, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon grated orange zest
• 1/2 cup dried apricots, finely chopped
• 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cream Cheese Base: In a large mixing bowl, use a spatula or hand mixer to beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
2. Combine Fruit and Zest: Combine chopped dried cranberries, chopped dried apricots, and grated orange zest with the cream cheese. Blend until well mixed.
3. Chill and Set: Place the spread in a serving bowl, cover it, and refrigerate until cold.
4. Serve with Accompaniments: Serve the chilled spread with a variety of crackers, crostini, or toasted baguette slices.