Creamy Raisin Spread
A creamy, sweet raisin spread with a hint of lemon and crunch of pecans, perfect for serving with crackers or as a flavorful sandwich filling.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the beaten egg, sugar, chopped raisins, mayonnaise, lemon juice, butter or margarine, and grated lemon rind in a heavy saucepan.
- Cook over low heat until thick and bubbly, stirring constantly.
- Stir in the chopped pecans and let cool.
- Serve with Melba rounds or use as a sandwich spread.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider substituting Greek yogurt for the mayonnaise. If you're short on time, pre-chopped pecans can save you some effort. Ensure you cook the mixture over low heat to avoid curdling the egg. Stir constantly, as this will help achieve a creamy consistency. You can also add a pinch of cinnamon for a warm flavor enhancement.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy raisin spread is delightful served on Melba rounds or as a unique sandwich spread. It pairs beautifully with sweet and savory ingredients, making it a versatile addition to your appetizer platter. Consider serving alongside fresh fruit or cheese to elevate your snack experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, gently warm in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently to maintain the creamy texture. Avoid microwaving, as it may cause uneven heating and alter the consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Creamy Raisin Spread contains roughly 856 calories, with 9g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 75g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (32% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. It also contributes 9g 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 other dried fruits instead of raisins?
Absolutely! Dried cranberries or chopped dates can be excellent substitutes for raisins. They will add a different yet equally delicious flavor to the spread. Just make sure to chop them finely to maintain the desired texture.
How can I make this spread vegan?
To make a vegan version, replace the egg with a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water, let sit until gelatinous) and use vegan mayonnaise. This will maintain the creaminess while keeping it plant-based.
Can I freeze the creamy raisin spread?
It's not recommended to freeze this spread, as the mayonnaise can separate upon thawing, affecting the texture. However, you can store it in the fridge for up to a week, which is your best option for maintaining quality.
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).