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Festive Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread with Toasted Pecans

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A creamy, tangy party appetizer featuring swirls of sweet-tart cranberries, toasted pecans, and a hint of orange zest. Quick to make and perfect for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or cheese boards.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries, roughly chopped
  • 1/2 cup pecans, chopped and toasted
  • 1 teaspoon fresh orange zest
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper (optional, a few grinds)
  • Optional garnishes: extra chopped toasted pecans, fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs, thin orange slices or zest curls

Instructions

  1. Take cream cheese out of the fridge and let it soften at room temperature for 5-10 minutes. If needed, cube and microwave for 10 seconds (do not melt).
  2. Chop pecans and toast in a small skillet over medium-low heat, stirring often, for 3-5 minutes until fragrant and golden. Remove and let cool.
  3. Add softened cream cheese to a mixing bowl. Beat with a hand mixer or sturdy spoon until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides.
  4. Stir in honey, orange zest, and salt. Mix until well combined.
  5. Gently fold in chopped cranberries and three-quarters of the toasted pecans. Save remaining pecans for topping. Do not overmix.
  6. Taste and adjust: add more honey for sweetness, a squeeze of orange juice for tang, or a few grinds of black pepper for warmth.
  7. Optional: Cover and chill for 10-30 minutes to let flavors meld and firm up the spread.
  8. Transfer to a serving plate or bowl. Garnish with reserved pecans, extra cranberries, and herbs or orange zest curls. Serve with crackers, bagels, or veggies.

Notes

Soften cream cheese at room temperature for best texture. Toast pecans for extra flavor and crunch. Fold ingredients gently for a pretty presentation. Can be made ahead and chilled. Easily adapted for dairy-free or nut-free diets. Serve with gluten-free crackers or veggie sticks for gluten-free guests.

Nutrition

Keywords: cranberry cream cheese spread, holiday appetizer, party dip, toasted pecans, easy cheese spread, festive appetizer, Christmas snack, Thanksgiving appetizer

Find it online: https://blixfood.com/festive-cranberry-cream-cheese-spread-recipe-easy-party-appetizer-with-toasted-pecans/