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Festive Christmas cream cheese spread with cranberries and pecans on a holiday platter.

Christmas Cream Cheese Spread

A creamy, tangy, and sweet spread that's perfect for holiday gatherings, easy to customize with various mix-ins, and can be made ahead of time.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American, Holiday
Calories: 150
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Base Ingredients
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 2-3 tbsp sour cream or plain Greek yogurt for extra creaminess
  • 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup optional but really nice
  • 1 pinch salt
  • to taste black pepper if you like a tiny kick
Festive Mix-Ins
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries
  • 1 tbsp orange zest
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans
  • 1/2 cup chopped green onions
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar
  • 1/2 cup crispy bacon bits
  • 1/2 cup chopped roasted red peppers
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 cup parsley
  • 1/4 cup fig jam
  • 1/2 cup walnuts
  • 1 pinch flaky salt
  • 1/4 cup chopped olives
  • 1 tbsp oregano
  • 1 tbsp olive oil for drizzling

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream or yogurt, honey or maple syrup, salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth.
  2. Add in your choice of mix-ins, tasting as you go to ensure the flavors are balanced.
Shaping
  1. Spoon the spread onto a platter and shape it into your desired form, such as a wreath or tree.
  2. Top with additional herbs and decorations to make it festive.
Serving
  1. Serve with your choice of crackers or bread, ensuring they are sturdy enough to hold the spread.

Notes

You can make the spread up to 2 days in advance and refrigerate. Shape and add toppings just before serving for best results. Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.