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Creamy Cranberry Spread

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This spread blends dried cranberries and apricots with cream cheese, brightened by orange zest and juice. Quick and easy for holiday parties or casual snacks.

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alicia in the kitchen
Updated on Wed, 21 May 2025 10:16:58 GMT
A bowl of creamy spread featuring cranberries and dried apricots. Pin it
A bowl of creamy spread featuring cranberries and dried apricots. | tasteofsavor.com

This cranberry and cream cheese combo totally brightens up my holiday spread. Nothing beats seeing friends grin when they try the blend of tangy cranberries, sweet dried fruit, and lush cheese. The hits of orange zest give it a sunny kick. Spread it thick on crackers, or pile it high on a turkey sandwich if you’ve got leftovers.

Why You'll Love This Spread

Years ago I whipped this up for a family party, and now it’s the dish everyone wants. Creamy cheese with juicy fruit pieces really makes everyone happy. Guests always want the how-to and I’m happy to share since it’s so quick to prep ahead. That leaves way more time to hang with folks instead of hovering over the stove.

What You'll Need

  • 2 blocks cream cheese: Set these out so they’re soft and easy to mix, about an hour on the counter should do it.
  • 1 cup fresh cranberries: Chop them up fine for tart pops throughout.
  • 1/2 cup dried apricots: These little nuggets bring a lovely sweetness to contrast the cranberries.
  • Zest from 2 oranges: That fresh zest really brings out the other flavors.
  • 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger: Grate it small so it melts into everything and adds a gentle hint of warmth.

Simple Steps That Work

Spread It All Together
Toss your softened cheese into a mixing bowl and stir in ginger, orange zest, apricots, and cranberries until the whole thing comes together and looks even.
Chill for Flavor
Slide it into the fridge so it can set up for at least an hour. That way, all the flavors blend nicely.
Serve and Enjoy
Spoon the spread onto a pretty dish, surround it with crackers, and let everyone dig in.

Fun Ways to Make It Your Own

I sometimes mix in toasted pecans for a little crunch. My husband’s all about savory, so green onions are a hit for him. If my sister’s coming, I’ll add chopped jalapeños since she’s into spicy snacks. Dried cherries work great if you ever want to swap out the cranberries.

Tasty Bites to Serve With

I usually grab Ritz for their buttery goodness or reach for water crackers. Since the fruity mix is already sweet, I skip sugary crackers. Setting out slice up baguette, bagel chips, or even pretzel crisps is fun so everyone picks what they like best.

How to Store It

It stays fresh in the fridge for up to two weeks, just pack it tightly or seal it in a container. Let it sit at room temp about fifteen minutes before serving to take the chill off. Just don’t let it sit out for more than a couple hours while you party.

Creamy dip topped with dried cranberries and orange bits in a bowl, crackers and orange slices all around. Pin it
Creamy dip topped with dried cranberries and orange bits in a bowl, crackers and orange slices all around. | tasteofsavor.com

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How long does it stay fresh?

Keep it in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Let it soften a bit before serving.

→ Can I make it early?

Sure, make it 1-2 days before. The flavors actually get better after sitting in the fridge for a while.

→ What should I pair it with?

Try crackers, baguette slices, apple wedges, or celery. It works great with lots of options.

→ Can I switch out the fruit?

Definitely! Use dried cherries, golden raisins, or dates instead. Just keep the same amount of dried fruit overall.

→ Do I need the ginger?

Nope, but it adds a nice hint of spice! It's still tasty without it if you'd rather skip.

Cranberry Spread

A creamy spread bursting with dried cranberries, apricots, fresh orange juice, and a touch of ginger. Great snack for any gathering.

Prep Time
5 Minutes
Cook Time
~
Total Time
5 Minutes
By: Alicia

Category: Sauces & Marinades

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: American

Yield: 12 Servings (1 party spread)

Dietary: Low-Carb, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

Ingredients

01 8 oz cream cheese, softened.
02 1/2 cup of dried apricots, finely chopped.
03 1/2 cup of dried cranberries, finely chopped.
04 1 tsp grated orange zest.
05 2 tbsp fresh orange juice.
06 1/4 tsp ground ginger (optional).

Instructions

Step 01

Blend the cream cheese until it's completely smooth. Toss in the chopped apricots and cranberries. Stir in the orange juice along with the zest. If you'd like, mix in the ginger. Keep stirring until all the ingredients are evenly combined.

Step 02

Pop the bowl into the fridge to let it chill before serving.

Step 03

Pair it with your choice of crackers, sliced bread, or fresh fruit for serving.

Notes

  1. Can be prepped in advance.
  2. Stays fresh for up to 5 days.
  3. A festive appetizer for holidays.
  4. No stove or baking needed.
  5. Change up the dried fruits to your liking.
  6. Awesome for parties or gatherings.

Tools You'll Need

  • A large mixing bowl.
  • Hand whisk or mixer.
  • Measuring tools (cups, spoons).
  • Zester or grater.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Contains dairy (cream cheese).

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 93
  • Total Fat: 7 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 8 g
  • Protein: 1 g