Sweet and Spicy Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread
A vibrant and flavorful spread made with fresh cranberries, cream cheese, jalapenos, and lime juice, perfect for any gathering.
Servings: 8 servings
Calories: 150kcal
Ingredients
For the Cranberry Spread
- 1 and 1/2 cups fresh cranberries, finely chopped Fresh cranberries recommended for best flavor and texture.
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temp
- 1 to 2 pieces jalapenos, seeded and minced Adjust for desired heat.
- 1/3 cup sugar or honey, to taste Use more or less depending on preference.
- 2 tablespoons lime juice, plus zest if you like extra brightness
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped cilantro or green onion
- 1 pinch salt To taste.
- Crackers, pita chips, or sliced baguette for serving Choose sturdy dippers.
Instructions
Preparation
- Chop the cranberries until they’re small but not mushy.
- Stir in jalapeno, sugar, lime juice, cilantro, and salt.
- Taste and adjust. Add more sugar for sweetness, more lime for tang, or a pinch more salt if it tastes flat.
- Let the mixture sit for 15 to 30 minutes, or refrigerate up to 48 hours to meld flavors.
- Spread cream cheese on a plate or swirl into a shallow bowl.
- Spoon cranberry mix over the cream cheese and serve with crunchy dippers.
Notes
Make the topping a day or two ahead for best flavor. Store the topping in a sealed container for up to 3 days. The finished spread can sit out for an hour before serving. Assemble while traveling to avoid sogginess.