Description
This elegant Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread is the ultimate sweet and tangy party appetizer. Combining the rich, velvety texture of softened cream cheese with a zesty, homemade cranberry compote, this dish offers a vibrant flavor profile that is perfect for holiday gatherings or casual brunch. Simple to assemble and quick to prepare, it is a crowd-pleasing treat that pairs beautifully with crackers, cookies, or crisp apple slices for an irresistible contrast.
Ingredients
8 oz block of cream cheese, softened
1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon orange juice
1/2 teaspoon orange zest
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 pinch of salt
Optional: 2 tablespoons chopped pecans or walnuts
Instructions
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the cranberries, sugar, orange juice, orange zest, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.
Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens into a glossy jam.
Remove from the heat and allow the cranberry mixture to cool for at least 10 minutes.
Spread the softened cream cheese evenly onto a serving platter or shallow bowl.
Spoon the cooled cranberry mixture generously over the top of the cream cheese.
Sprinkle with optional chopped nuts for added texture if desired.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully over time. If you need to soften cream cheese quickly, microwave it for 10-15 seconds. Serve with buttery crackers, gingersnap cookies, or crisp apple slices.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 5
- Category: Recipes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 115
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 95mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 25mg