Are you looking for a quick and easy appetizer that's sure to impress your guests? This cranberry cream cheese spread is the perfect solution! It's incredibly simple to make, bursting with festive flavors, and a delightful addition to any holiday gathering or even a casual weeknight snack. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit. This homemade cranberry cream cheese spread is a delicious and healthy alternative to store-bought options, perfect for those seeking easy recipes and quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries (if frozen, thaw completely)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons orange zest
- 1 tablespoon orange juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
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Prepare the Cranberries: If using fresh cranberries, rinse them thoroughly. If using frozen, ensure they are completely thawed. You can even speed up the thawing process by placing them in a colander under running cold water.
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Combine Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cranberries, sugar, orange zest, orange juice, vanilla extract, and salt.
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Mix Well: Using a hand mixer or a whisk, beat the mixture until it's smooth and creamy. If using a whisk, you might need to put in a little elbow grease to ensure everything is well incorporated.
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Chill (Optional): For best results, cover the bowl and refrigerate the cranberry cream cheese spread for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step is optional, but chilling enhances the taste and makes it easier to spread.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once chilled (or immediately if you're short on time!), serve your delicious cranberry cream cheese spread with crackers, baguette slices, or even on top of your favorite muffins or scones.
Tips for the Best Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread:
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Soften the Cream Cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is completely softened to room temperature for the smoothest and easiest mixing experience. You can speed this up by leaving it out on the counter for about an hour before starting, or by microwaving it in short bursts.
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Adjust Sweetness: The amount of sugar can be adjusted to your preference. If you prefer a less sweet spread, start with 2 tablespoons and add more to taste.
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Zest and Juice: Freshly zested orange peel and juice significantly enhance the flavor. Avoid using bottled orange juice, as it often lacks the vibrancy of fresh juice.
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Storage: Store leftover cranberry cream cheese spread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Variations:
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Spiced Cranberry Cream Cheese: Add a dash of cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger for a warm, spiced twist.
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Peppermint Cranberry Cream Cheese: For a holiday twist, stir in a few drops of peppermint extract. This is fantastic during the Christmas season!
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Cranberry Almond Cream Cheese: Fold in some chopped toasted almonds for added crunch and texture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. It's always a good idea to use a nutritional calculator for precise values.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
- Protein: 2-3g
This delicious cranberry cream cheese spread is a versatile and healthy addition to any meal. It’s perfect for holiday parties, brunches, or a simple and satisfying snack. Give this easy recipe a try, and elevate your next gathering with this simple yet impressive appetizer. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!