As the holiday season approaches, I find myself searching for quick and delightful recipes that can impress my family and friends. One of my absolute favorites is this Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread. It’s a festive delight that comes together in just 15 minutes! Perfect for busy moms like me, this spread is not only easy to whip up but also adds a splash of color and flavor to any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or simply enjoying a cozy night in, this spread is sure to bring smiles and compliments to the table.
Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread
This Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread is a lifesaver for busy days. It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients. In less than 15 minutes, you can create a festive appetizer that tastes like a holiday celebration. The creamy texture paired with the tart cranberries and crunchy pecans is a flavor explosion. Plus, it’s a hit with both kids and adults, making it perfect for any gathering!
Ingredients for Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Cream Cheese: The star of the show! Softened cream cheese provides a rich, creamy base that makes this spread irresistible.
- Fresh Cranberries: These little gems add a burst of tartness and a pop of color. You can also use dried cranberries if fresh ones aren’t available.
- Powdered Sugar: This sweetener balances the tartness of the cranberries. Adjust the amount to suit your taste; a little goes a long way!
- Chopped Pecans: For a delightful crunch, pecans are perfect. They add a nutty flavor that complements the creaminess beautifully. Feel free to substitute with walnuts or almonds if you prefer.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla enhances the overall flavor, making it even more delicious. Use pure vanilla extract for the best taste.
For those who want to get creative, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of orange juice for a unique twist. You can find the exact measurements for these ingredients at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into making this delightful Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a festive treat in no time!
Step 1: Beat the Cream Cheese
Start by placing the softened cream cheese in a mixing bowl. Using an electric mixer or a sturdy spatula, beat it until it’s smooth and creamy. This step is crucial because a well-beaten cream cheese creates a luscious base for your spread. Trust me, no one wants a lumpy spread!
Step 2: Mix in Sugar and Vanilla
Next, add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract to the bowl. Mix everything together until it’s fully combined. The sweetness of the sugar balances the tartness of the cranberries beautifully. If you’re like me and love a hint of sweetness, taste it as you go. Adjust the sugar if needed!
Step 3: Fold in Cranberries and Pecans
Now comes the fun part! Gently fold in the fresh cranberries and chopped pecans. Use a spatula to combine them without breaking the cranberries. This step adds texture and flavor, making your Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread truly festive. The crunch of the pecans is a delightful surprise!
Step 4: Transfer and Chill
Once everything is mixed, transfer the spread to a serving dish. Cover it with plastic wrap and pop it in the refrigerator for at least one hour. Chilling allows the flavors to meld together, creating a more delicious spread. Plus, it firms up a bit, making it easier to serve.
Step 5: Serve with Accompaniments
After chilling, it’s time to serve! Pair your Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread with an assortment of crackers or toasted bread. The creamy spread on a crunchy base is a match made in heaven. You can also garnish with extra pecans or cranberries for a beautiful presentation. Enjoy the compliments!
Tips for Success
- Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easy mixing.
- For a smoother texture, use a hand mixer instead of a spatula.
- Adjust the sweetness by tasting as you mix; everyone has different preferences!
- Chill the spread overnight for even better flavor.
- Don’t skip the garnishing; it makes your spread look extra festive!
Equipment Needed
- Mixing Bowl: A medium-sized bowl works best. You can also use a large measuring cup if you’re short on space.
- Electric Mixer: A hand mixer is ideal, but a sturdy spatula will do the trick if you prefer a workout!
- Spatula: Essential for folding in ingredients and scraping down the sides of the bowl.
- Serving Dish: Any decorative dish will enhance your spread’s presentation.
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a surprising twist that balances the sweetness.
- Herbed Delight: Mix in fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for an aromatic flavor that elevates your spread.
- Vegan Option: Substitute cream cheese with a plant-based alternative and use maple syrup instead of powdered sugar for a vegan-friendly version.
- Fruit Fusion: Incorporate diced apples or pears for added sweetness and texture, making it even more festive.
- Nut-Free Version: Omit the pecans and replace them with sunflower seeds for a nut-free alternative that still adds crunch.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair your Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread with an assortment of whole-grain crackers for a wholesome touch.
- Serve alongside toasted baguette slices for a delightful crunch.
- Complement with a glass of sparkling cider or white wine for a festive drink.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley for a pop of color.
FAQs about Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread
Can I make this Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread ahead of time?
Absolutely! This spread can be made a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator, and it will taste even better as the flavors meld together.
What can I serve with Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread?
This festive spread pairs wonderfully with crackers, toasted bread, or even fresh fruit. It’s versatile enough to complement a variety of accompaniments!
Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can! Dried cranberries will add sweetness and a chewy texture. Just chop them up a bit before folding them into the spread.
How long will the spread last in the fridge?
Your Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread will stay fresh for about 3 to 5 days in the refrigerator. Just make sure to keep it covered!
Is this spread suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly! It’s a delightful option for anyone looking for a tasty appetizer without meat.
Final Thoughts
Creating this Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread is more than just whipping up a quick appetizer; it’s about bringing joy to your gatherings. The vibrant colors and delightful flavors make it a centerpiece that sparks conversation and smiles. I love how it effortlessly combines simplicity with elegance, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a holiday party or a cozy family dinner, this spread is sure to impress. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let the festive spirit fill your kitchen. Trust me, your loved ones will thank you for this delicious treat!
Print
Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread on Crackers
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy cranberry spread served on crisp crackers, garnished with dried fruit and herbs — perfect for holiday entertaining or a festive appetizer.
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- Fold in the fresh cranberries and chopped pecans.
- Transfer the mixture to a serving dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
- Serve with crackers or toasted bread.
Notes
- For a sweeter spread, adjust the amount of powdered sugar to taste.
- This spread can be made a day in advance for convenience.
- Garnish with additional pecans or cranberries for presentation.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread, festive spread, holiday appetizer