Name: Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup whole berry cranberry sauce; 1 tsp orange zest or 1 tbsp orange juice; 1–2 tsp honey or maple syrup (optional, to taste); 2 tbsp chopped pecans or walnuts (optional); Pinch of salt

Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread is a sweet and tangy blend that’s perfect for the holiday season or anytime I want a quick, crowd-pleasing appetizer. It combines tart cranberries, creamy cheese, and a hint of citrus for a smooth, flavorful spread that goes perfectly with crackers, bagels, or even toast.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how simple this spread is to make with just a few ingredients, but it always tastes like something special. The richness of the cream cheese balances the bright flavor of cranberries, and when I serve it chilled, it’s the perfect mix of creamy and refreshing. It’s also incredibly versatile — I use it for both savory snacks and sweet breakfasts.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Cream cheese (softened)
Whole berry cranberry sauce (or homemade cranberry relish)
Orange zest or a splash of orange juice
Honey or maple syrup (optional, for extra sweetness)
Chopped pecans or walnuts (optional, for crunch)
Pinch of salt

Directions

I let the cream cheese soften at room temperature for about 15–20 minutes so it blends easily.
In a bowl, I mix the cranberry sauce with orange zest and a touch of honey or maple syrup, tasting as I go to get the sweetness just right.
I stir in a pinch of salt and nuts if I’m using them.
I gently fold the cranberry mixture into the softened cream cheese — either fully combined for a smooth pink spread, or swirled in for a marbled effect.
I transfer it to a serving dish and chill it for at least 30 minutes before serving so the flavors can blend together.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 1½ to 2 cups of spread and serves 6–8 people as an appetizer. It takes about 10 minutes to prepare and at least 30 minutes to chill before serving.

Variations

Sometimes I use whipped cream cheese for a lighter, fluffier texture. I’ve also stirred in dried cranberries for more chew, or added a little cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice twist. If I want a savory version, I cut back on the sweetener and add chopped green onions or jalapeños for a sweet-heat combo.

Storage/Reheating

I store the spread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It’s best served cold or at room temperature, so I let it sit out for a few minutes before serving. I don’t reheat this one — the texture stays best when it’s chilled.

FAQs

Can I make this spread ahead of time?

Yes, I often make it a day in advance. It actually tastes better after chilling for a few hours.

Can I use jellied cranberry sauce?

I prefer whole berry for texture, but jellied sauce works if I want a smoother spread. I just mix gently to avoid it becoming too loose.

What do I serve it with?

I usually pair it with crackers, crostini, or toasted bagels. It also makes a great spread for leftover turkey sandwiches.

Can I freeze cranberry cream cheese spread?

I don’t recommend freezing it — the texture of the cream cheese changes after thawing. It’s best fresh or stored in the fridge.

Is this sweet or savory?

It’s mostly sweet with a tangy edge, but I can adjust the flavor by adding more or less sweetener, or adding herbs or spice to make it more savory.

Conclusion

Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread is one of those recipes I keep coming back to — especially around the holidays. It’s quick to put together, looks beautiful on a platter, and has a flavor that works for both casual snacking and special occasions. Whether I’m spreading it on crackers or serving it alongside a cheese board, it’s always a hit.