There’s something truly special about the combination of cranberries, orange, and pecans—especially when blended with smooth, creamy cheese. This Cranberry Orange Pecan Cream Cheese is an easy yet elegant spread that delivers a perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and nutty flavors. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, preparing an afternoon snack, or looking for a quick appetizer, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
A Flavorful and Easy Cream Cheese Spread
Cream cheese spreads are an effortless way to add a touch of gourmet flavor to any table. The rich, velvety base of cream cheese blends beautifully with the citrusy brightness of orange juice, the tart pop of dried cranberries, and the crunch of toasted pecans. A hint of cinnamon adds warmth, making every bite a delightful fusion of textures and flavors.
Ingredients
To create this flavorful and creamy spread, you’ll need a few simple yet high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a key role in delivering a balance of tangy, sweet, and nutty flavors.
- Cream Cheese (8 oz, softened) – The rich and creamy base that holds all the flavors together. Let it sit at room temperature for easy mixing.
- Frozen Orange Juice Concentrate (¼ cup, thawed) – Adds a bright citrusy tang that enhances the flavor profile.
- Sugar (2 tsp) – Provides just the right amount of sweetness to balance the tartness of the cranberries.
- Cinnamon (⅛ tsp) – A subtle spice that complements the sweet and nutty flavors with a touch of warmth.
- Chopped Pecans (½ cup) – Brings a crunchy texture and nutty richness that pairs beautifully with the smooth cream cheese.
- Dried Cranberries (½ cup) – A tart and chewy contrast that bursts with flavor in every bite.
- A Variety of Crackers – The perfect accompaniment for serving, offering a crisp contrast to the creamy spread.
How to Make Cranberry Orange Pecan Cream Cheese Spread
Making this delicious cream cheese spread is incredibly easy and requires just a few simple steps.
Step 1: Blend the Base
In a mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to blend the softened cream cheese, thawed orange juice concentrate, sugar, and cinnamon. Mix on medium speed until the mixture is light, fluffy, and well combined. This step ensures the spread has a smooth, creamy consistency with a balanced flavor.
Step 2: Add the Crunch and Tartness
Lower the mixer speed and gently fold in the chopped pecans and dried cranberries. Stir until they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture. The pecans add crunch, while the cranberries provide bursts of tart sweetness.
Step 3: Chill for Flavor Development
Scoop the mixture into a bowl and cover it with plastic wrap. Let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld, making the spread even more delicious.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Once chilled, serve the spread with a variety of crackers, toasted baguette slices, or fresh fruit like apple and pear slices. The contrast of textures and flavors will make each bite irresistible.
How Long to Chill Cranberry Orange Pecan Cream Cheese Spread
Chilling the Cranberry Orange Pecan Cream Cheese Spread is an essential step that allows the flavors to fully develop. The ideal chilling time is at least 30 minutes, but for the best flavor and texture, letting it sit for 1-2 hours is recommended.
Here’s a general guideline for chilling times:
- Quick Chill (30 minutes) – The spread will be slightly firm, and the flavors will begin to meld.
- Best Flavor (1-2 hours) – The orange juice concentrate, cranberries, and cinnamon will blend into the cream cheese, creating a balanced taste.
- Overnight (6+ hours) – This allows the flavors to fully intensify, making the spread even more delicious.
If you’re in a rush, you can place the spread in the freezer for 10-15 minutes to speed up the process, but avoid freezing for too long as it may alter the creamy texture.
How to Store Leftovers
If you have leftovers, this spread can be stored easily for future enjoyment. Here’s how:
- Refrigerator: Transfer the spread to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days. When ready to serve, let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes to soften.
- Freezer: While it is possible to freeze this spread, the texture may change slightly after thawing. To freeze, scoop the mixture into an airtight container and store it for up to 1 month. When ready to use, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and stir well before serving.
Tips for the Perfect Cranberry Orange Pecan Cream Cheese Spread
- Use Softened Cream Cheese – Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. This prevents lumps and ensures a smooth, spreadable texture.
- Toast the Pecans for Extra Flavor – Lightly toasting the pecans in a dry skillet for 2-3 minutes enhances their nutty richness, adding an extra layer of depth to the spread.
- Adjust Sweetness to Taste – If you prefer a sweeter spread, increase the sugar slightly or add a drizzle of honey before serving.
- Experiment with Add-ins – For a fun twist, try adding a handful of mini chocolate chips for a dessert-style spread, or substitute walnuts for pecans for a different nutty flavor.
- Pair with the Right Crackers – This spread pairs beautifully with buttery crackers, whole wheat crackers, or even sliced toasted baguette for a rustic presentation
Cranberry Orange Pecan Cream Cheese Spread
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
This Cranberry Orange Pecan Cream Cheese Spread is a simple yet flavorful appetizer that brings together creamy, tangy, and nutty flavors. Perfect for holiday gatherings, snack boards, or a quick treat, this spread pairs wonderfully with crackers, toasted baguette slices, or fresh fruit.
Ingredients
- 8 oz package cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup frozen orange juice concentrate, thawed
- 2 tsp sugar
- ⅛ tsp cinnamon
- ½ cup chopped pecans
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- A variety of crackers, for serving
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to blend the cream cheese, orange juice concentrate, sugar, and cinnamon until soft and fluffy.
- Add in the chopped pecans and dried cranberries, stirring on low speed until everything is evenly combined.
- Transfer the mixture into a bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors develop.
- Serve with a selection of crackers, toasted baguette slices, or fresh fruit for dipping. Enjoy
Notes
- For extra crunch, toast the pecans in a dry skillet for 2-3 minutes before adding them to the mixture.
- To adjust sweetness, add a drizzle of honey if desired.
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute regular cream cheese with a plant-based alternative.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I Make This Cranberry Orange Pecan Cream Cheese Spread Ahead of Time?
Yes! This spread actually tastes even better when made in advance, as the flavors have more time to meld together. You can prepare it up to 2 days ahead and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Before serving, let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes for easy spreading.
2. What Can I Serve with This Cream Cheese Spread?
This spread is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of foods. Here are some great serving ideas:
- Crackers – Buttery crackers, whole wheat crackers, or seeded varieties complement the creamy texture.
- Toasted Baguette Slices – Adds a rustic, crunchy contrast.
- Fresh Fruit – Sliced apples, pears, or grapes enhance the fruity flavors in the spread.
- Bagels or Toast – A delicious breakfast option that adds a sweet and tangy twist.
3. Can I Use Fresh Cranberries Instead of Dried?
Dried cranberries are recommended for their concentrated sweetness and chewy texture, which balances the creamy and nutty elements. However, if you prefer to use fresh cranberries, consider chopping them finely and adding a touch of honey or sugar to offset their tartness.
4. Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! If you want a dairy-free version, simply substitute the regular cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative, such as cashew-based or almond-based cream cheese. The rest of the ingredients remain the same, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.