Cranberry Orange Pecan Cream Cheese Spread is a festive, easy-to-make appetizer that’s perfect for holiday gatherings or any special occasion. The combination of tart cranberries, zesty orange, crunchy pecans, and creamy cheese makes this spread a delightful addition to any table. Serve it with crackers, toasted baguette slices, or fresh veggies for a crowd-pleasing treat. This spread is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a standout on your appetizer table.
The bright, fruity flavors of cranberry and orange balance beautifully with the richness of cream cheese, while the toasted pecans add a pleasant crunch. It’s versatile enough to be paired with a variety of accompaniments, making it a great choice for any gathering. The recipe is simple, requires only a few ingredients, and can be prepared in advance—perfect for entertaining without the stress.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1/4 cup pecans, toasted and chopped
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1 tablespoon fresh orange juice
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Mix the Cream Cheese Base: In a medium mixing bowl, add the softened cream cheese. Beat it with a hand mixer or a spatula until smooth and creamy. This step is important for ensuring a light and fluffy texture that will blend well with the other ingredients.
- Add Flavorings: Add the chopped cranberries, toasted pecans, honey, orange zest, orange juice, ground cinnamon (if using), and a pinch of salt. Stir until all the ingredients are well combined and evenly distributed. The cranberries provide a sweet-tart burst, the orange zest and juice add a fresh citrus note, and the pecans give the spread a crunchy texture.
- Chill: Transfer the cream cheese mixture to a serving dish or mold it into a ball. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Chilling also helps firm up the spread, making it easier to serve and spread on crackers or bread.
- Serve: Serve the Cranberry Orange Pecan Cream Cheese Spread chilled or at room temperature with crackers, toasted baguette slices, or fresh vegetables. The spread pairs wonderfully with a variety of dippers, from buttery crackers to crisp celery sticks, offering a range of textures.
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Softening Cream Cheese: Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing to ensure a smooth texture. You can let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes or microwave it in short bursts until it’s soft but not melted.
- Toasting Pecans: Toasting the pecans enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch to the spread. To toast pecans, place them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently until they become fragrant. Be careful not to burn them.
- Make Ahead: You can make this spread a day in advance, which makes it perfect for entertaining. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator until ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld even more, making the spread tastier.
- Presentation Tip: For an elegant presentation, garnish the spread with a few whole cranberries, a sprinkle of orange zest, and a few pecan halves. This not only adds a festive look but also hints at the flavors inside.
Variations
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a finely chopped jalapeño for a sweet and spicy version of this cream cheese spread. The heat pairs surprisingly well with the sweetness of the cranberries and honey.
- Cheese Ball Form: Roll the spread into a ball and coat it with extra chopped pecans or a mix of chopped pecans and dried cranberries for a more festive presentation. This variation is perfect for holiday gatherings where guests can easily slice or spread the cheese ball.
- Herb Addition: Add a teaspoon of finely chopped rosemary or thyme for a savory element that pairs well with the cranberries and orange. The herbs add a touch of complexity and balance the sweetness.
- Maple Syrup Substitute: Swap out the honey for maple syrup for a slightly different but equally delicious flavor. The maple syrup adds a rich, deep sweetness that complements the cranberries and pecans beautifully.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
Fresh cranberries can be used, but they should be finely chopped, and you may want to add extra honey or sugar to balance their tartness. Fresh cranberries are more sour compared to dried ones, which have added sweetness. If using fresh, consider briefly cooking them with a bit of sugar to mellow their tartness.
2. How long does this spread last?
Store the spread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It may need a good stir before serving if made ahead. The flavors tend to develop even more after a day or two, making it an even better option for make-ahead entertaining.
3. Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?
Yes, walnuts or almonds make great substitutes for pecans in this recipe. Toast them similarly to enhance their flavor before mixing them into the spread. Walnuts add a slightly more bitter note, while almonds provide a milder crunch.
4. What can I serve with this cream cheese spread?
This spread pairs well with a variety of dippers, including crackers, toasted baguette slices, bagels, pita chips, or fresh vegetable sticks like celery and bell pepper. It also works well as a spread on sandwiches or wraps, adding a burst of flavor to savory ingredients.
5. Can I double this recipe for a larger gathering?
Absolutely! This recipe can easily be doubled or even tripled to accommodate larger gatherings. Just make sure to have a large enough mixing bowl, and adjust the chilling time accordingly if needed.
Cranberry Orange Pecan Cream Cheese Spread is a delicious, easy-to-make appetizer that will add a touch of elegance to your holiday or party spread. The balance of tart cranberries, citrusy orange, and crunchy pecans with the creamy cheese base makes it a favorite among guests. Whether you’re hosting a festive holiday gathering or a casual get-together, this spread will impress everyone with its rich flavors and beautiful presentation. Plus, the ease of preparation means you can spend more time with your guests and less time in the kitchen. Give this recipe a try and bring a festive, flavorful dish to your next gathering!
