Red Cream Cheese Block
A creamy, fruity cheese spread with tart cranberry and citrus flavors, perfect for entertaining or casual snacking on crackers. Great for holiday gatherings or brunch.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Blend crushed cranberry fruit, lemon juice, and orange juice until well combined.
- Place the cream cheese block on a serving dish.
- Spoon the fruit mixture over the top of the cream cheese.
- Sprinkle with nuts.
- Provide a spreading knife and serve with crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother mixture, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before spreading. If you want a sweeter touch, consider adding a tablespoon of honey to the fruit mixture. You can substitute cranberries with chopped strawberries or raspberries for a different flavor profile. If you're short on time, use store-bought cranberry sauce instead of crushed fruit.
Serving Suggestions
This Red Cream Cheese Block pairs beautifully with crackers and can be complemented by sliced fresh fruits or a selection of nuts for added crunch. You might also serve it alongside a refreshing salad like Cantaloupe And Blueberries With Yogurt Dressing for a light meal. It’s perfect for parties or as a delightful addition to a brunch spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain the best texture, avoid freezing as cream cheese can become grainy when thawed. When ready to serve again, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before enjoying it with fresh crackers.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Red Cream Cheese Block contains roughly 170 calories, with 3g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 10g 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
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative made from nuts or soy. Ensure that the alternative has a similar texture to maintain the integrity of the dish while still offering a delicious 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).