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Cranberry Spread with Cream Cheese

Cranberry Spread with Cream Cheese
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A fresh and simple cranberry spread with cream cheese that combines sweet and tangy flavors with a creamy texture. Perfect for holiday gatherings, snacks, or easy entertaining. This vibrant and versatile spread can be served on crackers, toast, or as a dip, and is make-ahead friendly for your convenience.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
  • 4 oz (½ cup) full-fat cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 2–3 tablespoons sugar or honey (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon orange juice or water
  • 1 teaspoon orange zest (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon or nutmeg (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the cranberries: Rinse fresh cranberries thoroughly, removing any damaged ones. If using frozen, thaw completely. In a small saucepan, combine cranberries with sugar (or honey) and a splash of orange juice or water.
  2. Cook the cranberry mixture: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens, about 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  3. Cool the cranberry spread: Remove from heat and allow the cranberry mixture to cool completely to help flavors meld and prevent melting the cream cheese when combined.
  4. Soften the cream cheese: Allow the cream cheese to come to room temperature to ensure easier mixing and a smoother texture.
  5. Combine and blend: In a bowl, gently fold the cooled cranberry mixture into the softened cream cheese until fully incorporated but still slightly chunky for the perfect texture.
  6. Chill before serving: Transfer the spread to a serving dish, cover, and chill for at least one hour to let the flavors develop and the spread firm up.

Notes

  • Use fresh cranberries if possible for a brighter flavor compared to canned or jarred versions.
  • Be sure to fully cool the cranberry sauce before mixing with cream cheese to maintain creamy texture.
  • Adjust sweetness gradually by tasting as you go to find the perfect balance.
  • Full-fat cream cheese provides the best flavor and texture over low-fat options.
  • Chilling before serving allows the spread to set properly and flavors to meld beautifully.

Nutrition

Keywords: cranberry spread, cream cheese spread, holiday appetizer, cranberry dip, easy spread, make-ahead spread, festive recipe, tangy spread

Find it online: https://sophiemelody.com/cranberry-spread-with-cream-cheese/