SPREAD LOVE

Creamy Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread

When the holiday season rolls around, kitchens everywhere start to smell heavenly from a mix of spices, baking goods, and the unmistakable tartness of cranberries. This Creamy Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread perfectly embodies that festive spirit. A true delight for your taste buds, it combines the richness of cream cheese with the zesty flair of cranberries, creating a deliciously creamy spread with a punch of flavor. Whether enjoyed on crackers, bagels, or as a delightful filling for pastries, this spread is a crowd-pleaser that brings warmth to gatherings.

Why Make This Recipe

Bursting with fresh cranberries and a rich, creamy texture, this spread is a fantastic contrast of flavors.
It’s a versatile dish that can enhance both sweet and savory recipes.
Perfect for entertaining, gifting, or simply indulging in a treat at home, you won’t want to miss out!

Making Creamy Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread

Creating your own creamy cranberry cream cheese spread at home is not just simple but also satisfying. This easy method allows you to infuse every bite with a mixture of flavors that will have everyone asking for the recipe. Below are the steps that will guide you in bringing together this delightful spread in your kitchen.

Ingredients

To whip up this delightful cream cheese spread, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Two 8-ounce blocks full-fat cream cheese, softened to room temperature
2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries (about 8 ounces)
1/2 cup granulated sugar (for compote), plus 2 optional tablespoons for cream cheese base
2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
1 teaspoon orange zest, finely grated
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
Pinch of salt (about 1/8 teaspoon)
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (optional)
2 tablespoons chopped pecans or walnuts, lightly toasted (optional)

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Creamy Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread

Rinse and Sort Cranberries
Begin by placing your fresh cranberries in a colander and rinsing them thoroughly under cool running water. Carefully pick through them, discarding any soft, bruised, or shriveled berries, as well as any tiny stems or leaves that might still be attached.
Simmer Cranberry Compote to Perfection
In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed cranberries, the 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, and the 2 tablespoons of fresh orange juice. Add a tiny pinch of salt. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Continue to simmer for about 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries have mostly burst and the sauce has visibly thickened.
Infuse with Zest and Spice
Once your cranberry compote has reached the desired consistency, remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the finely grated 1 teaspoon of orange zest. If you’re using the optional ground cinnamon, now is the time to stir that in as well.
Cool the Compote Completely
Transfer the finished cranberry compote from the hot saucepan to a heat-proof bowl or a shallow dish. Allow it to cool down to room temperature and then refrigerate it for at least 1-2 hours, or until it is thoroughly chilled. This step is critical to prevent the cream cheese from melting and separating.
Ensure Cream Cheese is Perfectly Softened
While your cranberry compote is chilling, ensure your two (2) 8-ounce blocks of full-fat cream cheese are at true room temperature, very soft to the touch. This is essential for a smooth, lump-free spread.
Whip the Cream Cheese to Fluffy Perfection
In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment or using an electric hand mixer, beat the softened cream cheese on medium speed for 2 to 3 minutes until it is incredibly smooth, light, and airy. Optionally, add two (2) tablespoons of granulated sugar and one (1) teaspoon of pure vanilla extract, beating for another minute until well combined.
Gently Fold in the Chilled Cranberry Compote
Add the entire batch of completely chilled cranberry compote to the whipped cream cheese. Using a rubber spatula, gently fold the compote into the cream cheese until evenly distributed, creating beautiful streaks of red and white or a uniform pink hue according to your preference.
Taste, Adjust, and Add Optional Toppings
Taste the spread and adjust flavors as needed (e.g., more sweetness or salt). If using, gently fold in the two (2) tablespoons of lightly toasted chopped pecans or walnuts for added texture.
Chill for Optimal Flavor and Firmness
Transfer the finished spread to an airtight container. Cover tightly and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to an hour before serving to allow flavors to meld and the spread to firm up to an ideal consistency. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days.

Storage Guidance for Creamy Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread

Keeping your delicious Creamy Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread fresh and tasty is crucial for maintaining its unique flavors. Here are some tips for proper storage:

Refrigerate for 3-4 days at 40°F.
Freeze up to 2 months in an airtight container.
Allow to thaw in the refrigerator before serving for best texture.

Best Ways to Serve Creamy Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread

This delightful spread is not only easy to make but incredibly versatile in its uses. Here are some of the best ways to enjoy your creamy cranberry cream cheese spread:

On Fresh Bagels: Spread a generous amount on toasted bagels for a delightful breakfast treat. The tangy cranberry flavor pairs beautifully with the rich cream cheese.
Crackers and Crostini: Serve with an assortment of gourmet crackers or toasted baguette slices for stylish appetizers at your gatherings. Garnish with a sprig of mint for color.
As a Sweet Dip: Pair it with sliced apples or pears for a refreshing snack, allowing the sweet and tart flavors to complement each other beautifully.
In Pastries: Use it as a filling for puff pastries or phyllo dough for elegant finger foods at holiday parties.
As a Topping for Cakes or Muffins: Swirl into muffin batter before baking or use it as a decadent cake frosting.

Tips to Make Creamy Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread

Ensure your cream cheese is completely softened to avoid lumps.
For an extra zing, consider adding more citrus zest or a splash of lemon juice.
If you prefer a smoother texture, puree the cranberry compote before folding it into the cream cheese.

Potential Variations or Substitutions

If you’re looking to mix things up a bit, there are a few easy variations to this recipe:

You can swap the cranberries for other fruits like raspberries or blackberries for a different flavor profile. Just adjust the sugar depending on the tartness of the fruit.
For a healthier version, consider using a low-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt; it will still provide creaminess with fewer calories, though the consistency may vary slightly.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Yes, you can prepare the cranberry compote ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Combine it with the cream cheese right before serving for the best flavor.

Q: What do I do if I don’t have fresh cranberries?
A: Frozen cranberries work perfectly as a substitute, ensuring they are thawed and rinsed before use.

Q: Can I make this spread vegan?

Yes, you can substitute the cream cheese with a plant-based cream cheese and use maple syrup in place of sugar for the compote.

Q: Can I serve this spread warm?
A: For a unique twist, warm the spread slightly in the microwave (15-20 seconds) which will make it easier to spread but may alter the texture slightly.

Nutritional Information

While not often the star of the show, it’s good to know what you are indulging in. Here’s a rough breakdown for one serving (assuming 12 servings total):

Calories: approximately 180
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 30mg
Sodium: 60mg
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 6g
Protein: 2g

In summary, the Creamy Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread is not just a recipe; it’s an experience. It brings together flavors and textures that dance on your palate, making it a perfect option for any occasion. Whether it’s a cozy family gathering, a festive holiday party, or just a morning treat, this spread is bound to impress. Enjoy the process of making it, the enjoyment of serving it, and most importantly, savor every flavorful bite!