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Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread

This quick and festive spread combines cream cheese with dried cranberries and apricots, enhanced with fresh orange zest and juice. Ready in minutes, it's perfect for holiday gatherings or anytime you need an easy but impressive appetizer.

Featured in Homemade Kitchen Basics.

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Updated on Wed, 01 Jan 2025 17:35:48 GMT
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A bowl of creamy fruit salad mixed with cranberries and dried apricots. Pin it
A bowl of creamy fruit salad mixed with cranberries and dried apricots. | quickierecipe.com

This cranberry cream cheese spread brings pure joy to my holiday table. I love watching guests' faces light up when they taste the perfect mix of sweet dried fruit and creamy cheese. The orange zest adds such a lovely brightness that makes this spread irresistible on crackers or spread thick on leftover turkey sandwiches.

What Makes This Spread Special

I started making this spread years ago for our family gatherings and now everyone expects it. The combination of smooth cream cheese with bursts of fruit creates pure magic. My guests always ask for the recipe and I love telling them how simple it is to make ahead. That way they can spend more time enjoying their company instead of being stuck in the kitchen.

Simple Ingredients

  • 2 blocks cream cheese: Let them soften on your counter for about an hour so they blend smoothly.
  • 1 cup fresh cranberries: Chop these into tiny bits for bursts of tartness in every bite.
  • 1/2 cup dried apricots: These sweet little gems add the perfect balance to the tart cranberries.
  • 2 oranges worth of zest: Fresh zest makes all the difference in brightening the flavors.
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger: Grate it finely to add a subtle warmth that brings everything together.

Quick and Easy Steps

Mix Your Spread
Put your softened cream cheese in a bowl and blend in the fruit orange zest and ginger until everything looks perfectly combined.
Let It Rest
Pop it in the fridge for at least an hour. This gives all those wonderful flavors time to mingle together.
Time to Share
Arrange it on your prettiest plate surrounded by crackers and watch it disappear.

Fun Ways to Switch It Up

Sometimes I toss in a handful of toasted pecans for crunch. Green onions add a savory twist that my husband loves. When I serve this to my sister I mix in some finely diced jalapeños because she adores spicy food. For a change of pace try swapping the cranberries with dried cherries.

Perfect Pairings

My go to crackers are buttery Ritz or crisp water biscuits. Skip anything too sweet since the fruit adds plenty of natural sweetness. I love setting out a variety of options like fresh baguette slices bagel chips and pretzel crisps so everyone can find their favorite way to enjoy it.

Keep It Fresh

This spread stays perfectly good in your fridge for about two weeks just keep it wrapped tight or in a sealed container. Take it out of the fridge about 15 minutes before serving to let it soften slightly. Just remember not to leave it sitting out for more than a couple hours during your party.

A bowl of creamy dip topped with dried cranberries and orange bits, surrounded by crackers and fresh oranges. Pin it
A bowl of creamy dip topped with dried cranberries and orange bits, surrounded by crackers and fresh oranges. | quickierecipe.com

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How long can I store this spread?

Keep refrigerated for up to 5 days in an airtight container. Let soften slightly before serving.

→ Can I make this ahead?

Yes, prepare 1-2 days ahead. The flavors actually improve as they meld together in the refrigerator.

→ What can I serve this with?

Serve with crackers, sliced baguette, apple slices, or celery sticks. It's versatile enough for many dippers.

→ Can I substitute other dried fruits?

Yes, try dried cherries, golden raisins, or chopped dates. Keep the total amount of dried fruit the same.

→ Is the ginger necessary?

Ginger is optional but adds a subtle warmth. The spread is still delicious without it.

Cranberry Spread

A festive cream cheese spread featuring dried cranberries and apricots, brightened with orange and a hint of ginger. Perfect party appetizer.

Prep Time
5 Minutes
Cook Time
~
Total Time
5 Minutes
By: Meryem


Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: American

Yield: 12 Servings (1 spread)

Dietary: Low-Carb, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

Ingredients

01 8 ounces cream cheese.
02 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped.
03 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped.
04 2 tablespoons orange juice.
05 1 teaspoon orange zest, grated.
06 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger (optional).

Instructions

Step 01

Whisk cream cheese until smooth. Add chopped cranberries and apricots. Mix in orange juice and zest. Add ginger if using. Combine until well mixed.

Step 02

Refrigerate the mixture to chill before serving.

Step 03

Serve with crackers, fresh fruit, or sliced baguettes.

Notes

  1. Can make ahead.
  2. Stores up to 5 days.
  3. Great holiday appetizer.
  4. No cooking required.
  5. Can vary dried fruits.
  6. Perfect party spread.

Tools You'll Need

  • Large bowl.
  • Whisk.
  • Measuring cups.
  • Grater for zest.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Dairy (cream cheese).

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 93
  • Total Fat: 7 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 8 g
  • Protein: 1 g