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Christmas & Cream Spread

A creamy and slightly sweet spread with a tangy cranberry swirl, perfect for holiday gatherings. Fast and easy to prepare, it's a crowd pleaser that pairs well with various dippers.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Spread Base
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened Ensure it's very smooth for best texture
  • 3 tablespoons heavy cream or half and half Use for a fluffier texture
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar More can be added to taste
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon orange zest Plus more for topping
  • 1 pinch fine sea salt To balance sweetness
Toppings
  • 1/2 cup whole berry cranberry sauce Chilled
  • 1/4 cup chopped pistachios For crunch and color
  • 2 tablespoons dried cranberries, chopped
  • 1 drizzle honey Optional, for sweetness

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Let the cream cheese sit at room temperature until soft and spreadable.
  2. In a bowl, beat the cream cheese with heavy cream, powdered sugar, vanilla, orange zest, and a tiny pinch of salt until fluffy and smooth. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.
Assembly
  1. Spoon the mixture onto a shallow serving plate and smooth it out with the back of a spoon to create nice swirls and swoops.
  2. Dollop cranberry sauce around the top, then gently swirl it through the cream base using a knife or skewer, ensuring that you don’t fully mix it in.
  3. Scatter pistachios and dried cranberries on top for crunch and festive color. Add a light drizzle of honey if desired.
  4. Chill for at least 20 minutes before serving.

Notes

This spread can be customized with various toppings and spices. It’s best served slightly softened for easier scooping. Make ahead for convenience, and store covered in the fridge for 2 to 3 days.