Fruity Cheese Spread
A creamy, fruity cheese spread with a nutty pecan coating, perfect for entertaining or casual snacking with fruit, crackers, and cookies. Light, sweet, and savory flavors blend harmoniously.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat cream cheese in a large bowl until smooth.
- Beat in gelatin until well blended.
- Form the mixture into a 5-inch round shape.
- Cover with plastic wrap and chill for about 1 hour.
- Remove plastic wrap and press pecans gently around the edges of the cheese round.
- Serve with fruit, cookies, and crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, make sure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing. You can use any flavor of Jell-O gelatin that complements the dish, such as strawberry or raspberry. If you want a nut-free version, simply skip the pecans or substitute with sunflower seeds. Adding a touch of honey or maple syrup can enhance the sweetness for those who prefer a sweeter spread.
Serving Suggestions
This fruity cheese spread pairs wonderfully with fresh fruits like strawberries, apple slices, or grapes. It also complements a variety of crackers and cookies, making it a versatile addition to any appetizer platter. For a delightful twist, serve it alongside Bananas & Cheesecake Dipping Sauce for a dessert-inspired experience that your guests will love.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you need to reheat it, allow it to come to room temperature before serving again. However, this cheese spread is best enjoyed cold, so consider serving it straight from the fridge for optimal flavor and texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fruity Cheese Spread contains roughly 414 calories, with 6g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 43g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (19% of the Daily Value) and protein (11% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 5g 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 in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute low-fat cream cheese for a lighter version of this spread. However, keep in mind that it may alter the texture slightly, making it less creamy. Be sure to blend it thoroughly to maintain a smooth consistency.
How long can I keep the cheese spread in the fridge?
The cheese spread can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep it tightly covered to prevent it from drying out or absorbing odors from other foods in the fridge.
Can I make this cheese spread in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cheese spread up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to add the pecans right before serving to keep them crunchy and fresh.
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).