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This cranberry cream cheese mix is always the star at my holiday get-togethers. Watching people take that first bite and their faces light up makes me happy every time. The hit of orange zest is like a burst of sunshine and I can't get enough of it loaded onto crackers or piled high on leftover turkey sandwiches.
Why You'll Love This Spread
I started whipping up this spread for family parties ages ago and now folks ask for it every single year. The combo of velvety cream cheese and tasty bits of fruit just works. Everyone begs for the how-to and I always tell them there's really not much to it. You can put it together ahead of time so you get to chill out and hang with your friends.
Gather Your Goodies
- 1 tablespoon finely grated fresh ginger: Brings in a gentle heat that ties everything together nicely.
- Zest from 2 oranges: Gives a fresh and zingy flavor boost throughout the whole mix.
- 1/2 cup dried apricots: These chewy sweet bites balance all the tartness from the berries.
- 1 cup fresh cranberries: Chop ‘em up small for those perfect tart pops.
- 2 blocks cream cheese: Leave these on the counter for about an hour before mixing so they're smooth and easy to stir.
Easy-Peasy How-To
- Jump In and Share
- Spoon it onto a cute plate, circle it with crackers, then watch your friends make it vanish.
- Chill for Best Flavor
- Slide it into the fridge for a bit (an hour works great) so everything can soak up each other’s tastes.
- Bring It Together
- Toss your squishy cream cheese in a big bowl and mix in all the fruit, ginger, and orange zest. Keep going until it looks totally mixed up.
Mix Things Up
Try tossing in a handful of toasted pecans for a little crunch or some zippy green onions for a savory punch. My sister’s all about spicy food, so I add minced jalapeños when she’s around. If you want a different fruit vibe, sub in dried cherries for the cranberries and see what you think.
Great Things to Serve With It
I grab classic Ritz or crisp water crackers for this one. Skip anything sugary since the fruit already does that job. Fresh baguette slices, bagel chips, and pretzel crisps make a killer snack board so everyone gets what they want.
How to Store It Right
This spread keeps for almost two weeks in your fridge as long as it’s sealed up. Let it sit out about 15 minutes before folks dig in so it’s easier to spread. Just don’t leave it sitting out on the table more than a few hours at your party.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → How long does it last in the fridge?
Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Let it soften after taking it out before serving.
- → Can I make it in advance?
Definitely. Prepare it a day or two early. The flavors blend better with a little time in the fridge.
- → What should I pair this with?
It's great with crackers, apple slices, tiny baguette slices, or even celery sticks. Lots of options!
- → Can I use other dried fruits?
Sure! Swap in dried cherries, raisins, or dates if you like. Just keep the same amount of dried fruit overall.
- → Is ginger necessary?
Nope! It adds a warm touch, but you can totally skip it, and it'll still taste great.