Festive Cranberry & Cream Cheese Spread
Looking for a holiday-ready appetizer or breakfast topper that’s as beautiful as it is delicious? This Cranberry & Cream Cheese Spread is your new go-to. It’s creamy, tangy, and lightly sweet, with gorgeous cranberry swirls and a bright citrus kick from fresh orange zest.
Perfect for bagels, toast, muffins, crackers, or even as a dip for fruit, this spread adds a festive flair to any table. It’s quick, easy, and guaranteed to impress at holiday gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy – Just whip, fold, and chill—no cooking required.
- Festively Beautiful – Those cranberry swirls make it look party-ready.
- Versatile – Works as a breakfast spread, appetizer, or dessert dip.
- Make-Ahead Friendly – Prepare in advance and chill until serving.
Equipment
- Hand mixer or stand mixer
- Large mixing bowl
- Rubber spatula
- Microplane or fine grater (for orange zest)
- Airtight container (for storing)
Ingredients
- 2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
- ¾ cup chilled heavy cream
- ½ cup whole berry cranberry sauce
- 1 tsp freshly grated orange zest
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Base
Whip softened cream cheese in a large bowl until smooth, creamy, and lump-free.
Step 2: Blend & Chill
Pour in the cold heavy cream and beat until smooth. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow it to set slightly.
Step 3: Whip It Up
After chilling, beat again until stiff peaks form — this gives the spread its fluffy, airy texture.
Step 4: Swirl in Flavor
Gently fold in the cranberry sauce and orange zest. Do not overmix — aim for streaks of cranberry for a festive swirl effect.
Step 5: Chill & Serve
Transfer to a sealed container and refrigerate until firm. Serve chilled with bagels, toast, crackers, or as a sweet dip.
✨ Tip: Garnish with extra orange zest, sugared cranberries, or a sprig of fresh rosemary for a festive touch.
Pro Tips
- Use room-temperature cream cheese – It blends smoothly without lumps.
- Chill the cream – Cold cream whips up better and holds its shape.
- Don’t overmix – Folding gently preserves those pretty cranberry swirls.
- Make it ahead – Keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Variations & Serving Ideas
- Nutty Twist – Add ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch.
- Spiced Version – Fold in ¼ tsp cinnamon or nutmeg for holiday warmth.
- Citrus Boost – Use a mix of orange and lemon zest for extra brightness.
- Savory-Sweet Appetizer – Spread over crackers and top with fresh thyme or rosemary.
Serving & Storage
- Serve with bagels, muffins, croissants, or brioche toast.
- Use as a dip for apple slices, grapes, or strawberries.
- Spread on graham crackers for a dessert-style snack.
- Store in the fridge, covered, for up to 3 days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use canned cranberry sauce?
Yes—just make sure it’s whole berry, not jellied, for the best texture.
Q: Can I freeze this spread?
Not recommended. The texture changes once thawed. Best enjoyed fresh or chilled.
Q: Can I lighten it up?
Use reduced-fat cream cheese and light cream, but the spread will be less rich.
Q: What if I don’t have orange zest?
You can substitute lemon zest for a similar brightness.
Cinnamon Sugar Cream Cheese Rolls
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Mix warm milk, yeast, and sugar; let foam 5–10 mins.
- Add egg, butter, flour, and salt. Knead until smooth; rise 1–1.5 hrs.
- Beat cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla. Mix cinnamon, sugars, and cinnamon separately.
- Roll dough into 12x16 rectangle. Spread butter, sprinkle cinnamon sugar, spread cream cheese filling.
- Roll into a log, slice 12 rolls.
- Arrange in greased dish, rise 30–45 mins.
- Bake at 350°F for 22–28 mins until golden.
- Cool 10 mins, drizzle glaze, and serve.
Notes