This Christmas & Cream Spread is a smooth, creamy, and flavorful delight that combines the richness of cream cheese, the tartness of cranberries, and the citrusy brightness of fresh orange zest. Perfect for spreading on toast, dipping fruit, or even as a filling for pastries, this holiday-inspired spread will make any breakfast or snack feel extra special!
Ingredients
For the Christmas & Cream Spread:
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- ¾ cup heavy whipping cream, chilled
- ½ cup whole berry cranberry sauce
- 1 teaspoon fresh orange zest
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (for added sweetness)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (for extra depth)
- ¼ teaspoon cinnamon (for a warm holiday touch)
- 2 tablespoons chopped pecans or walnuts (for crunch)
Equipment Needed
✅ Electric Mixer – For smooth and fluffy texture
✅ Mixing Bowls – Large enough to blend all ingredients evenly
✅ Citrus Zester – To get fine orange zest without bitterness
✅ Airtight Container or Jar – For storing the spread
Instructions
1. Prepare the Cream Cheese Base:
- In a large mixing bowl, add softened cream cheese and mix using an electric mixer until smooth and lump-free.
2. Whip the Cream:
- Pour in chilled heavy cream and mix until fully combined.
- Cover the bowl and chill for 30 minutes to let the mixture set.
3. Beat Until Fluffy:
- Remove the mixture from the fridge and use an electric mixer to beat until stiff peaks form (this creates a light and airy texture).
4. Add the Festive Flavors:
- Gently fold in the cranberry sauce and orange zest until just combined.
- If using optional add-ins like honey, vanilla, cinnamon, or nuts, fold them in now.
5. Store & Serve:
- Transfer the spread to an airtight container or jar.
- Refrigerate until ready to use (best served chilled).
Serving Suggestions 🎄
✨ Breakfast Favorite: Spread on toast, English muffins, bagels, or croissants.
🍓 Dipping Delight: Use as a dip for strawberries, apple slices, or graham crackers.
🥞 Pancake/Waffle Topping: Spoon over waffles or pancakes for a festive touch.
🍰 Dessert Upgrade: Use as a filling for crepes or pastry puffs.
💡 Want to pair this with homemade bread? Try our Best Holiday Breads Here
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approx. 2 Tbsp)
- Calories: ~120 kcal
- Protein: 2g
- Carbs: 4g
- Fat: 10g
- Sugar: 2g
💡 Looking for a lighter version? Swap cream cheese for Greek yogurt and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream!
FAQs & Expert Tips
1. How long does this spread last?
- Store in the fridge for up to 5 days in an airtight container.
2. Can I make this dairy-free?
- Yes! Use dairy-free cream cheese and coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
3. What’s the best way to whip cream cheese?
- Make sure it’s fully softened before mixing to avoid lumps.
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