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Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.5 from 78 reviews
  • Author: Bertha
  • Prep Time: 10 mins
  • Cook Time: 15 mins
  • Total Time: 25 mins
  • Yield: 6 - 8 servings
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread is a festive and flavorful appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings or anytime you want a tangy, creamy treat. Fresh or thawed cranberries are simmered with sugar and brandy until thick and saucy, then layered over a smooth, fluffy cream cheese mixture infused with lemon zest and heavy cream. Topped with crunchy sliced almonds, scallions, and a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil, this spread pairs beautifully with crackers or bagel chips for an irresistible bite.

Ingredients

Scale

Cranberry Sauce

  • 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries, thawed
  • 5 Tbsp. granulated sugar
  • 2 Tbsp. brandy
  • 1/2 cup cold water

Cream Cheese Spread

  • 2 (8-oz.) pkg. cream cheese, room temperature
  • 6 Tbsp. heavy cream
  • 2 tsp. finely grated lemon zest
  • 1/4 tsp. kosher salt

Toppings & Garnish

  • 1 Tbsp. sliced almonds or crushed walnuts
  • 2 tsp. finely sliced scallions
  • 1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper (optional)
  • Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling
  • Assorted crackers or bagel chips, for serving

Instructions

  1. Cook Cranberries: In a small saucepan over medium-high heat, combine cranberries, sugar, and 1/2 cup cold water. Bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally, and cook until the liquid thickens into a saucy consistency and the cranberries burst, about 12 to 14 minutes.
  2. Add Brandy: Stir in the brandy and continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until most of the liquid evaporates, approximately 2 more minutes. Transfer the cranberry sauce to a medium heatproof container or bowl and allow it to cool to room temperature.
  3. Prepare Cream Cheese Mixture: While the cranberry sauce cools, place the room temperature cream cheese, heavy cream, lemon zest, and kosher salt in a large bowl. Using a handheld mixer on low speed or a stand mixer with a paddle attachment, beat the mixture. Increase speed to high and continue beating until the mixture is smooth and fluffy, about 1 minute.
  4. Assemble the Spread: Spoon dollops of the cream cheese mixture into a serving bowl. Carefully spoon the cooled cranberry sauce over the cream cheese layer.
  5. Add Toppings and Serve: Sprinkle the spread with sliced almonds and scallions. If desired, season with freshly ground black pepper. Drizzle extra-virgin olive oil over the top. Serve the cranberry cream cheese spread with assorted crackers or bagel chips on the side.

Notes

  • For a stronger brandy flavor, you can add a splash more or substitute with bourbon.
  • Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature to achieve the fluffiest spread.
  • To make this recipe nut-free, omit the almonds or walnuts topping.
  • For a sweeter spread, increase the sugar by 1-2 tablespoons depending on your taste.
  • This spread can be made a few hours ahead and refrigerated; bring it to room temperature before serving for best texture.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/8 of recipe (about 1/4 cup)
  • Calories: 150
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 140mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 9g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 35mg

Find it online: https://grannyeats.com/cranberry-cream-cheese-spread-recipe/