Cranberry Orange Pecan Cream Cheese Spread

This Cranberry Orange Pecan Cream Cheese Spread is a festive, flavorful addition to any holiday gathering! The smooth cream cheese is complemented by tangy orange, sweet dried cranberries, crunchy pecans, and a hint of cinnamon. Serve it with an assortment of crackers or toast for an easy, delicious appetizer that’s perfect for holiday parties and family get-togethers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Holiday Flavors: Cranberries, orange, and cinnamon bring out the festive spirit of the season.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 10 minutes, with no baking required.
• Perfect for Entertaining: This spread is a great make-ahead appetizer that only gets better with time as the flavors meld.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it with crackers, toasted baguette slices, or even fresh fruit.

Ingredients

• 8 oz package of cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup thawed frozen orange juice concentrate (for a strong citrus flavor)
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• Assorted crackers, for serving

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Combine Cream Cheese and Flavorings:
   • In a medium mixing bowl, add the softened cream cheese, orange juice concentrate, sugar, and cinnamon. Using an electric mixer on medium speed, blend until the mixture is soft, creamy, and fluffy.
2. Add Pecans and Cranberries:
   • On low speed, gently mix in the chopped pecans and dried cranberries until well incorporated. Make sure the ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the spread.
3. Chill the Spread:
   • Transfer the mixture to a serving bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This resting time helps the flavors to meld together and enhances the overall taste.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Serve the chilled spread with an assortment of crackers, baguette slices, or sliced fruit. Enjoy the blend of creamy, citrusy, and nutty flavors!

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Medium mixing bowl
• Electric mixer (handheld or stand mixer)
• Spatula for mixing
• Serving bowl

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serving: Place this cheese spread on a holiday appetizer platter with crackers, toasted bread, and even sliced apples or pears. Garnish with extra cranberries or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a festive touch.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Stir before serving as the spread may firm up in the fridge.
• Make-Ahead: This spread can be made a day ahead for convenience and even better flavor.

Recipe Variations

• Walnut Substitute: Use chopped walnuts instead of pecans for a different nutty flavor.
• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle heat that complements the sweetness.
• Fresh Fruit Addition: Fold in 1/4 cup of finely chopped fresh oranges or apples for extra flavor and texture.

Helpful Notes

• Cream Cheese Softness: Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps and ensure a smooth, creamy consistency.
• Orange Juice Concentrate: Frozen orange juice concentrate provides a stronger orange flavor than regular juice; it’s best to use concentrate for maximum citrus flavor.
• Blending: Don’t overmix the pecans and cranberries; use a low speed to prevent breaking up the nuts and cranberries too much.

Tips from Chefs

• Chef Ina Garten: “For a more elegant presentation, transfer the spread to a decorative bowl and top with a few whole cranberries and pecans before serving.”
• Chef Martha Stewart: “Serve with a variety of crackers, including whole grain, seeded, and plain, to complement the different flavors in the spread.”

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I make this spread dairy-free?
Yes, substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative for a lactose-free version.

Q2: Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
Dried cranberries work best as they provide a sweet, chewy texture, but you can use fresh cranberries that have been cooked with a bit of sugar to reduce their tartness.

Q3: Can I use fresh orange juice instead of concentrate?
For the strongest orange flavor, orange juice concentrate is recommended. Fresh orange juice will be milder, but you can add a bit of zest to enhance the citrus flavor.

Q4: How can I make this spread more decorative?
Top with a sprinkle of extra cranberries, pecans, or a dash of cinnamon. You can also drizzle a small amount of honey for added sweetness.

Q5: What type of crackers pair best with this spread?
Multigrain, whole wheat, and slightly sweet crackers like wheat thins work well. Pita chips and toasted baguette slices are also great options.

Enjoy This Festive Cranberry Orange Pecan Cream Cheese Spread!

This Cranberry Orange Pecan Cream Cheese Spread is a festive and flavorful addition to any holiday gathering. The creamy, tangy spread is bursting with holiday flavors and pairs perfectly with crackers, bread, or fruit. Quick, easy, and delicious, it’s an ideal appetizer to make for holiday parties, family gatherings, or any cozy winter evening!

Print