Cranberry Walnut Cream Cheese Spread

This Cranberry Walnut Cream Cheese Spread is the perfect blend of creamy, tangy, and sweet a truly festive addition to any holiday table or cozy gathering. With rich cream cheese as the base, bursts of tart cranberries, and the satisfying crunch of toasted walnuts, this spread strikes a beautiful balance of textures and flavors. A drizzle of honey and a hint of cinnamon tie everything together with warm, comforting notes. Serve it chilled with crisp crackers, slices of baguette, or fresh fruit for a simple yet elegant appetizer that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup dried cranberries, chopped
• ½ cup walnuts, toasted and chopped
• ¼ cup honey
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the base: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, honey, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Beat with a spoon or hand mixer until the mixture becomes smooth, creamy, and well-blended.
2. Add texture and flavor: Gently fold in the chopped dried cranberries and toasted walnuts until evenly distributed throughout the cream cheese.
3. Shape and garnish: Transfer the mixture to a serving dish or small bowl, smoothing the top with a spatula for a neat presentation. Garnish with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme if desired for a festive touch.
4. Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to firm slightly.
5. Serve and enjoy: Serve with your favorite crackers, toasted baguette slices, or crisp apple wedges for a delightful appetizer or snack.

Variation

• Nut Substitutions: Try using pecans or almonds instead of walnuts. Pecans lend a buttery richness, while almonds give a subtle crunch and slightly sweeter flavor. Toast them lightly before adding for an even deeper nutty aroma.
• Fruit Additions: For a burst of color and sweetness, mix in chopped dried apricots or golden raisins. They add a bright, fruity contrast to the tart cranberries.
• Savory Twist: Skip the honey and add a touch of goat cheese or blue cheese crumbles for a tangier, more sophisticated version perfect for savory snack boards.
• Spiced Version: Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for a cozy holiday aroma. This makes the spread feel extra seasonal and warming.
• Herbed Option: Stir in finely chopped rosemary or thyme for an earthy, fragrant profile that pairs beautifully with cheese boards and roasted meats.

Cooking Notes

• Softening Cream Cheese: Let your cream cheese sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before mixing. This ensures a silky, lump-free texture that blends easily with other ingredients.
• Toasting Walnuts: Toasting brings out their rich, nutty flavor. Heat them in a dry pan over medium heat for 3–5 minutes, stirring constantly until fragrant. Allow them to cool before chopping.
• Balancing Sweetness: Dried cranberries can vary in tartness taste before adding honey, and adjust accordingly for your desired sweetness level.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4–5 days. Give it a quick stir before serving again to restore its creamy consistency.

Serving Suggestions

• On a Cheese Board: Add this spread to a festive charcuterie board with crackers, grapes, and sliced apples for a vibrant centerpiece. The colors and textures pair beautifully with other cheeses and cured meats.
• With Breakfast: Spread on bagels, croissants, or toasted English muffins for a sweet and nutty morning treat. The honey and cranberries make it feel like dessert for breakfast.
• As a Dip: Serve with apple slices, pear wedges, or pretzel crisps for a balance of creamy, salty, and sweet.
• In Sandwiches: Use it as a flavorful spread in turkey or chicken sandwiches for a holiday-inspired lunch. The cranberries complement poultry perfectly.
• Garnish for Dessert Platters: Pipe or spoon it onto cookies or mini tart shells and top with a walnut half for elegant bite-sized treats.

Tips

• Use High-Quality Cream Cheese: The base flavor matters choose a rich, full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest texture and best mouthfeel.
• Don’t Overmix: Fold the cranberries and walnuts in gently to keep the mixture from becoming too dense or losing texture.
• Chill Before Serving: The 30-minute refrigeration isn’t just for convenience it allows the flavors to blend and the spread to firm up for perfect scooping and spreading.
• Make Ahead: This is an excellent make-ahead appetizer. Prepare it the night before and refrigerate the flavors will only get better.
• Presentation Counts: Serve in a pretty ceramic bowl or small ramekin, and garnish with a drizzle of honey, extra cranberries, or a sprig of rosemary to make it visually stunning for guests.

Prep Time:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 150 kcal
• Protein: 3 g
• Sodium: 85 mg

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, this spread tastes even better after a few hours in the refrigerator. Prepare it in advance and chill until ready to serve.

2. What can I use instead of walnuts?
Pecans or almonds work beautifully as substitutes, each bringing a unique flavor and crunch to the spread.

3. Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
Dried cranberries are preferred for texture, but you can use finely chopped fresh cranberries just add a bit more honey to balance the tartness.

4. How long does it last in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, it will keep well for up to 5 days. Stir before serving to restore its creamy consistency.

Conclusion

This Cranberry Walnut Cream Cheese Spread is an effortless yet elegant appetizer that captures the spirit of the season. Creamy, nutty, and sweet with a hint of tang, it’s perfect for parties, brunches, or cozy nights in a festive favorite you’ll want to make again and again.

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