Cranberry Orange Pecan Cream Cheese

Here’s a delicious Cranberry Orange Pecan Cream Cheese recipe — perfect as a spread for bagels, crackers, or even as a dip for fruit:

🧁 Cranberry Orange Pecan Cream Cheese Spread

Ingredients:

• 8 oz (1 block) cream cheese, softened

• 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped

• 1/3 cup pecans, toasted and chopped

• 1 tablespoon orange zest (from 1 medium orange)

• 1–2 tablespoons fresh orange juice

• 1–2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)

• Pinch of salt (balances the flavors)

Instructions:

1. Soften Cream Cheese:
   Let the cream cheese sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes to soften, or microwave for about 10 seconds.

2. Toast Pecans (Optional but Recommended):
   Toast pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–4 minutes until fragrant. Cool, then chop.

3. Mix Ingredients:
   In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, chopped cranberries, pecans, orange zest, orange juice, and honey (if using). Add a pinch of salt.

4. Blend Until Smooth:
   Use a hand mixer or spatula to mix everything until creamy and well combined. Taste and adjust sweetness or orange juice as desired.

5. Chill (Optional):
   For best flavor, refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving.

💡 Tips:

• Use whipped cream cheese for a lighter, airier spread.

• Add a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth.

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.