Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread Recipe – Easy Holiday Appetizer with Tangy Cranberry Sauce
This Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread is the ultimate holiday appetizer—sweet, tangy, creamy, and irresistibly festive. Smooth cream cheese is layered or blended with a vibrant cranberry sauce made from fresh cranberries, orange zest, and a touch of honey or sugar. Serve it chilled or at room temperature with crackers, crostini, or sliced apples for a crowd-pleasing starter that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Quick to assemble and perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any winter gathering.
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Hand mixer or whisk
- Citrus zester
- Spatula
- Airtight container (for storage)
Ingredients
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup dried cranberries (or ⅓ cup cranberry sauce)
- 1 tsp orange zest
- 1 tbsp orange juice
Optional:
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- ¼ tsp cinnamon or grated ginger
- 2 tbsp chopped pecans or walnuts
Instructions
- Soften Cream Cheese Let cream cheese sit at room temperature for 30–45 minutes until soft.
- Whip the Base Beat cream cheese with a hand mixer or whisk until smooth and fluffy.
- Add Flavorings Stir in cranberries, orange zest, orange juice, and any optional add-ins. Mix gently until evenly combined.
- Chill Transfer to a serving bowl or airtight container. Chill for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve Garnish with extra zest or chopped nuts. Serve with crackers, crostini, bagels, or as a sandwich spread.
Notes
- Use full-fat cream cheese for best texture
- For vegan version, use plant-based cream cheese and agave
- Avoid overmixing dried fruit to preserve texture
- Not freezer-friendly—store in fridge up to 5 days
- Make ahead 1–2 days for best flavor
- Try spicy twist with jalapeños or chili flakes
- Sweeten with maple syrup or brown sugar for dessert-style spread