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Christmas & Cream Spread

A creamy, tangy, and sweet spread featuring cranberries and nuts, perfect for holiday gatherings and easy entertaining.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American, Holiday
Calories: 150
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Base Ingredients
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened Room temperature for easy mixing.
  • 4 oz mascarpone or sour cream For extra silkiness.
  • 2 tbsp honey or pure maple syrup To balance tang.
  • 1 cup dried cranberries, chopped Plus a handful for topping.
  • 1 tbsp orange zest
  • 1 tbsp fresh orange juice Squeezed.
  • 0.5 cup toasted pecans or pistachios, finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp finely chopped green onion or chives For a soft bite.
  • 1 pinch salt Plus a sprinkle of black pepper.
  • 1 pinch red pepper flakes Optional heat.
To Serve
  • 1 plate crackers, crostini, pretzel crisps, sliced cucumbers, apple wedges For serving options.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese with mascarpone until smooth and fluffy.
  2. Mix in honey, orange zest, and a teaspoon of orange juice. Add a tiny pinch of salt.
  3. Gently stir in chopped cranberries, green onion, and most of the nuts, reserving some for topping.
  4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to bloom.
  5. Scoop into a shallow bowl, swirl the top, and finish with reserved cranberries, nuts, chives, and a drizzle of honey.
  6. Add a crack of black pepper over the top for contrast before serving.

Notes

Serve slightly chilled, not ice cold, for best flavor. This spread is versatile and pairs well with various snacks. Use leftovers on sandwiches or baked goods.