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Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread with Almonds and Scallions Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.7 from 143 reviews
  • Author: Anna
  • Prep Time: 10 mins
  • Cook Time: 15 mins
  • Total Time: 25 mins
  • Yield: 6 - 8 servings
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A luscious and tangy Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread perfect for holiday gatherings or snacks. This creamy, fluffy spread combines tart cranberry sauce with smooth cream cheese, enhanced with brandy, lemon zest, and a touch of sweetness, topped with crunchy nuts and fresh scallions for added texture and flavor. Serve chilled with crackers or bagel chips for an irresistible appetizer or snack.

Ingredients

Scale

Cranberry Sauce

  • 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries, thawed
  • 5 Tbsp. granulated sugar
  • 2 Tbsp. brandy
  • 1/2 cup cold water

Cream Cheese Spread

  • 2 (8-oz.) pkg. cream cheese, room temperature
  • 6 Tbsp. heavy cream
  • 2 tsp. finely grated lemon zest
  • 1/4 tsp. kosher salt

Toppings and Garnishes

  • 1 Tbsp. sliced almonds or crushed walnuts
  • 2 tsp. finely sliced scallions
  • 1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper (optional)
  • Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling
  • Assorted crackers or bagel chips, for serving

Instructions

  1. Prepare Cranberry Sauce: In a small saucepan over medium-high heat, combine the cranberries, sugar, and 1/2 cup of cold water. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the liquid reduces to a thick, saucy consistency, about 12 to 14 minutes.
  2. Add Brandy: Stir in the brandy and continue to cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing most of the liquid to evaporate. Transfer the cranberry sauce to a medium heatproof container or bowl and let it cool completely.
  3. Make Cream Cheese Mixture: In a large bowl, using a handheld mixer on low speed or a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the room temperature cream cheese, heavy cream, lemon zest, and kosher salt. Increase the speed to high and continue beating until the mixture is smooth and fluffy, approximately 1 minute.
  4. Assemble the Spread: Spoon the cream cheese mixture into a serving bowl. Dollop the cooled cranberry sauce over the top evenly.
  5. Add Toppings and Serve: Sprinkle the sliced almonds or crushed walnuts and sliced scallions over the layered spread. Optionally, season with freshly ground black pepper. Drizzle lightly with extra-virgin olive oil. Serve immediately alongside assorted crackers or bagel chips.

Notes

  • For a boozy version, add more brandy to taste after cooking if desired.
  • Can be made a few hours ahead and chilled; bring to room temperature before serving for best texture.
  • Substitute nuts with pecans or omit for a nut-free option.
  • Use gluten-free crackers to make this appetizer gluten-free.
  • Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother texture.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
  • Calories: 110
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 85mg
  • Fat: 9g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 6g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 25mg

Find it online: https://recipestrend.com/cranberry-cream-cheese-spread-with-almonds-and-scallions-recipe/