Cherry Cream Cheese Spread
A creamy, nutty cherry spread perfect for spreading on crackers or bread, combining sweet cherries with tangy cream cheese and crunchy almonds for a delightful snack or appetizer.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped almonds, and chopped maraschino cherries.
- Stir in 1 to 2 tablespoons of maraschino cherry juice until the mixture becomes spreadable.
- Serve the cherry cream cheese spread with Town House or Ritz crackers.
- Refrigerate leftovers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, ensure your cream cheese is fully softened before mixing. If you're looking for a nut-free version, you can substitute chopped walnuts or sunflower seeds instead of almonds. Experiment with different types of cherries, such as fresh or frozen, for varying flavors. Adding a pinch of cinnamon or vanilla extract can enhance the sweetness of the spread.
Serving Suggestions
This cherry cream cheese spread is delightful when served with Town House or Ritz crackers, adding a crunchy contrast. It also pairs beautifully with fresh fruit like apple slices or strawberries. For a more substantial snack, consider serving it alongside a charcuterie board featuring meats and cheeses, or use it as a flavorful dip for pretzels.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cherry cream cheese spread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. If you want to make it ahead of time, prepare it a day in advance and keep it chilled. There’s no need to reheat this spread; simply serve it cold straight from the fridge.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherry Cream Cheese Spread contains roughly 356 calories, with 9g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use low-fat cream cheese for this recipe?
Yes, low-fat cream cheese can be used as a substitute, but it may result in a slightly different texture and flavor. It might be a bit less creamy, so you may need to add a touch more cherry juice to achieve the desired spreadable consistency.
How can I make this spread sweeter?
To enhance the sweetness of the spread, consider adding a tablespoon of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey. Adjust according to your taste preference, especially if using tart cherries, to balance the flavors.
Can I freeze the cherry cream cheese spread?
Freezing is not recommended for cream cheese spreads, as it can alter the texture once thawed. If you have leftovers, it's best to refrigerate them instead. Enjoy the spread within a week for optimal freshness and flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).