Description
Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread is a sweet, tangy, and creamy holiday appetizer made with whipped cream cheese blended with tart cranberries, orange, and a touch of sweetness. Perfect for crackers, bagels, toast, or festive charcuterie boards.
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp orange juice
- 1 tsp orange zest
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Optional mix-ins: 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts, 2 tbsp honey
Instructions
- In a small saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, orange juice, and orange zest. Cook over medium heat for 5–7 minutes until cranberries burst and mixture thickens. Let cool completely.
- In a medium bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth and fluffy.
- Add the cooled cranberry mixture and vanilla extract. Mix until fully combined and creamy.
- Stir in nuts or honey if desired.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to blend.
- Serve with crackers, toast, bagels, pretzels, or as a holiday dip.
Notes
- For a sweeter spread, add an extra tablespoon of sugar or honey.
- Make ahead: can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Use whipped cream cheese for a lighter, fluffier texture.
- Great addition to holiday charcuterie or breakfast boards.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 7 mins
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook / Stovetop
- Cuisine: American