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Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread

This Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread is tangy, sweet, and luxuriously creamy all at once. Tart cranberries blend perfectly with smooth cream cheese for a vibrant, flavorful spread that’s perfect on bagels, crackers, or sandwiches. It’s an easy, festive addition that brightens any breakfast or snack table.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Breakfast, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 10 Portions
Calories 120 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients:

  • 8 oz cream cheese softened
  • ½ cup fresh or canned cranberries chopped (or use dried cranberries soaked in water for a few minutes)
  • 2 –3 tbsp honey or maple syrup adjust for sweetness
  • 1 tsp orange zest optional for brightness
  • ½ tsp vanilla extract optional
  • Pinch of salt

Optional Add Ins:

  • 2 tbsp chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch
  • ¼ tsp cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth
  • 1 –2 tbsp orange juice for extra tang
  • Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a savory twist

Instructions  

Step 1: Soften the Cream Cheese

  • Remove cream cheese from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes. This ensures it’s easy to mix and results in a smooth, creamy spread.

Step 2: Prepare the Cranberries

  • If using fresh cranberries, chop them finely. For dried cranberries, soak them in warm water for 5–10 minutes to soften. Canned cranberries work as-is.
  • Optional: If you prefer a smoother texture, pulse fresh cranberries briefly in a food processor.

Step 3: Mix the Ingredients

  • In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, cranberries, honey, orange zest, and vanilla. Mix with a spoon or spatula until smooth and well combined.
  • Add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness. Taste and adjust honey or zest as desired.

Step 4: Optional Add Ins

  • Fold in chopped nuts, spices, or herbs for extra flavor and texture. These additions are great for holiday variations or to match your menu.

Step 5: Chill (Optional)

  • For best flavor, refrigerate the spread for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. You can serve immediately if needed, but chilling improves texture and flavor.

Step 6: Serve

  • Transfer the spread to a serving bowl or plate. Serve with bagels, toast, crackers, or as part of a charcuterie board. Garnish with extra cranberries, nuts, or fresh herbs for presentation.

Video

Notes

📝 Notes

  • Use full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest texture.
  • Fresh or frozen cranberries both work, thaw if using frozen.
  • Add sugar gradually to control sweetness to taste.
  • Optional: mix in a bit of orange or lemon zest for extra flavor.
  • Stir until smooth for a uniform, creamy spread.
  • Serve on toast, bagels, crackers, or as a dessert topping.
  • Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
  • Bring to room temperature before serving for best spreadability.

🍽️ Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Calories: 120  
Carbohydrates: 10g  
Fiber: 1g  
Sugars: 8g  
Protein: 2g  
Fat: 8g  
Saturated Fat: 5g  
Cholesterol: 25mg  
Sodium: 85mg  
Potassium: 55mg  
Calcium: 25mg  
Iron: 0.3mg
Keyword Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread