Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread

Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread is my answer for quick entertaining or cozy afternoons when I want something festive and simple to serve This tangy creamy spread brightens any cheese board and makes a vibrant snack with almost zero effort

I first made this when friends dropped by unexpectedly on Thanksgiving morning It instantly became tradition for every holiday brunch and now my nieces ask for it by name

Ingredients

• Cream cheese: adds creaminess and tang be sure to let it fully soften for smooth mixing select full fat cream cheese for best texture
• Dried cranberries: bring sweet tart chew their jewel red color makes the spread festive choose plump cranberries with a good expiration date for best results
• Dried apricots: soften the taste with mellow sweetness and orange hues go for moist and brightly colored apricots for vibrant flavor
• Orange zest: gives fresh citrus aroma use a firm orange and zest only the bright outer skin for the freshest oils

Instructions

Soften the Cream Cheese:

Let the cream cheese sit on the counter for at least thirty minutes until it feels perfectly soft Gently press with your finger to test If it sinks without resistance it is ready this prevents lumps

Beat the Cream Cheese:

Place cream cheese in a large bowl and use a sturdy spoon or an electric mixer to whip until completely smooth and fluffy Airy cream cheese blends more easily with the other mix ins

Chop and Prepare the Fruit:

Use a sharp knife to chop dried cranberries and apricots into tiny pieces Aim for bits smaller than a raisin so they blend evenly and every bite gets fruit Do not skip the chopping or big pieces will clump

Add Citrus Zest:

Grate only the outer layer of a fresh orange with a microplane or fine grater Avoid the bitter white pith For best flavor zest directly over the bowl so you get every drop of the fragrant oils

Mix it All Together:

Add chopped cranberries apricots and orange zest to the whipped cream cheese Fold gently with a sturdy spatula until everything is absolutely mixed no fruit clumps or streaks of zest should remain

Chill the Spread:

Scrape mixture into a serving bowl and cover tightly with plastic wrap Chill at least one hour to let the flavors meld Cold cream cheese also firms up for perfect spreading

Serve and Enjoy:

Uncover and give it a quick stir before serving Place on a board with crackers crostini or sliced toasted baguette For a fancy touch sprinkle with a little extra zest or chopped fruit

The burst of orange zest is always my favorite touch It reminds me of my grandmother gently zesting fresh fruit at the holidays to make even basic recipes taste special I still think of her when making this for family brunches

Storage Tips

Keep any leftover spread in an airtight container in the fridge It stays fresh and spreadable for several days If it looks a bit stiff after chilling just stir well to revive the creamy texture Avoid freezing as the cream cheese will change texture

Ingredient Substitutions

You can switch out the dried cranberries for dried cherries if you want a more tart flavor Try using golden raisins or even chopped dried figs in place of apricots For a tangier twist add a teaspoon of lemon zest instead of orange

Serving Suggestions

This spread is a natural on crackers crostini or pumpernickel rounds It also works inside small sandwiches or as a bagel schmear For unexpected fun pipe it into celery sticks or mini tart shells as a party bite

Cultural and Seasonal Touch

This recipe gets extra mileage around the holidays The red cranberry and orange flecks look festive on any winter table Dried fruit spreads like this are inspired by classic English cheese platters and are beloved for both taste and appearance

For best texture and flavor make this spread a few hours ahead and serve chilled with your favorite crunchy crackers or bread It is sure to become a new favorite for gatherings and everyday snacks

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?

Dried cranberries are preferred for their sweetness and texture, but chopped fresh cranberries can be used for a tart flavor. Consider adding a touch of sweetener to balance the taste.

→ What alternatives work for dried apricots?

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

→ How long can the spread be refrigerated?

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

→ Which crackers or bread pair best?

Serve with buttery crackers, crispy crostini, or toasted baguette slices to balance the creamy and fruity textures.

→ Can this be made ahead for gatherings?

Yes, prepare in advance and chill until serving. Flavors meld together, making it ideal for entertaining.