Creamy Fruit Spread
Creamy fruit spread combines tangy orange and sweet nuts with smooth cream cheese, perfect for spreading on crackers or fruit slices, ideal for snack or dessert.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat the cream cheese, softened butter, powdered sugar, orange juice, orange rind, and vanilla until smooth.
- Chill the mixture for 3 hours or longer.
- Form the chilled mixture into a ball.
- Garnish with chopped walnuts or pecans and orange rind.
- Serve with apple or pear slices, gingersnaps, or vanilla wafers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using reduced-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt as a substitute. If you prefer a different flavor, try adding a splash of lemon juice instead of orange juice. You can also mix in dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for extra texture. Make sure to beat the mixture thoroughly for a creamy consistency.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy fruit spread is perfect for brunch or dessert and pairs beautifully with apple or pear slices, gingersnaps, or vanilla wafers. You can also serve it as a delightful topping for pancakes or toast. For a festive touch, consider serving it alongside a Holiday Cordial for a delightful contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. If you want to extend the shelf life, you can also freeze the spread for up to a month. To enjoy it again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving, and give it a quick stir to restore its texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Creamy Fruit Spread contains roughly 914 calories, with 1g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 63g fat.
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 make this spread ahead of time?
Yes, this spread can be made a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Chilling it overnight enhances the flavors, making it even more delicious when served.
What can I use instead of walnuts or pecans?
If you have nut allergies or prefer not to use nuts, you can omit them entirely or substitute with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a similar crunch. You might also consider adding shredded coconut for a different texture.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the spread?
To adjust the sweetness, simply reduce the amount of powdered sugar to your taste. Alternatively, you could add a sweetener like honey or maple syrup, but remember to balance it with the other ingredients to maintain the creamy consistency.
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).