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This festive and flavorful cream cheese spread is the perfect addition to your holiday gatherings or any time you want a quick and delicious appetizer. The tangy cranberries, zesty orange, and crunchy pecans blend beautifully with the creamy texture of cream cheese for a spread that’s a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup fresh cranberries, chopped
- ¼ cup pecans, chopped
- ¼ cup orange marmalade or fresh orange juice and zest
- 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp fresh orange zest
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Optional for garnish: Additional chopped pecans and fresh cranberries
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Chop the fresh cranberries and pecans. If using fresh orange juice, zest the orange as well.
- If you’re using orange marmalade, you can skip the juice and zest.
- Make the Spread:
- In a medium mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Add the orange marmalade (or juice and zest), honey, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix until well combined.
- Gently fold in the chopped cranberries and pecans.
- Chill:
- Transfer the mixture to a serving bowl, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve:
- Garnish the spread with additional chopped pecans and fresh cranberries, if desired. Serve with crackers, toasted baguette slices, or fresh vegetables.
Tips:
- Make Ahead: This spread can be made up to 2 days ahead and stored in the fridge.
- Sweetness: Adjust the honey or maple syrup to your preferred level of sweetness.
- Serving Ideas: This spread is great for holiday parties, cheese boards, or as a topping for bagels and toast.
Enjoy this sweet, savory, and tangy spread that’s perfect for the holiday season!
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