Cranberry Pepper Jelly Spread

Cranberry Pepper Jelly Spread is a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors that brings a touch of festive cheer to any gathering. This spread is incredibly versatile, making it a perfect addition to your cheese board or a unique condiment for sandwiches and crackers. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also elevates your appetizer game with its vibrant colors and delicious taste.

Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, a casual get-together, or simply looking for a new favorite spread, this recipe will impress your guests and leave them asking for more. Let’s dive into what makes this Cranberry Pepper Jelly Spread so special.

Why Cranberry Pepper Jelly Spread is Worth Your Time

This delightful spread is a beautiful blend of textures and flavors. The tartness of the cranberry sauce perfectly balances the sweetness of the red pepper jelly, while the cream cheese provides a creamy, rich base. Topped with the fresh, crisp notes of green onion, this spread is not only visually appealing but also bursting with flavor. It takes only minutes to prepare, making it a quick and easy choice for any occasion. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with a variety of snacks — from crusty bread to fresh vegetables.

What You’ll Gather

To whip up this delicious Cranberry Pepper Jelly Spread, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1/2 cup whole cranberry sauce
• 1/2 cup red pepper jelly
• 1 green onion, green part thinly sliced
• 1 (8-ounce) block cream cheese

These simple ingredients come together to create a festive and flavorful spread that everyone will enjoy!

Kitchen Gear Checklist

Before you start preparing your Cranberry Pepper Jelly Spread, gather the following kitchen gear:

• Mixing bowl: A medium-sized bowl to combine your ingredients.
• Spatula or spoon: For mixing everything together smoothly.
• Serving platter: To display your beautiful spread.
• Knife: To slice the green onion and serve the cream cheese.

Having the right tools on hand will make the preparation process seamless and enjoyable!

Method: Cranberry Pepper Jelly Spread

Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese

Start by allowing your block of cream cheese to come to room temperature. This will make it easier to mix and spread.

Step 2: Mix the Base

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the entire block of cream cheese with the cranberry sauce. Using a spatula, mix until well combined and smooth.

Step 3: Add the Jelly

Next, add in the red pepper jelly. Gently fold it into the cream cheese and cranberry mixture until evenly distributed. You want to see swirls of the jelly throughout the spread.

Step 4: Incorporate the Green Onions

Sprinkle the thinly sliced green onion on top of the mixture. Fold it in gently to maintain some of the crispness.

Step 5: Transfer and Chill

Spoon the mixture onto your serving platter, shaping it as desired. Cover with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once chilled, your Cranberry Pepper Jelly Spread is ready to serve! Pair it with your favorite crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetable sticks for a delightful appetizer.

Budget & Availability Swaps

If you’re looking to customize your ingredients or keep costs down, consider these swaps:

• Cranberry Sauce: You can use homemade cranberry sauce if you have it on hand or prefer a less sweet version.
• Red Pepper Jelly: Substitute with any fruit jelly you like, such as jalapeño jelly for a spicy kick or apricot preserves for a sweeter option.
• Green Onion: Chives or shallots can be used for a different flavor profile.
• Cream Cheese: Neufchâtel cheese is a lighter alternative that works just as well.

These swaps ensure you can make this spread with ingredients that suit your taste and budget!

Author’s Commentary

This Cranberry Pepper Jelly Spread is truly a crowd-pleaser! I love serving it during the holidays, as the vibrant colors and flavors really capture the essence of the season. It’s also incredibly easy to make, which is a bonus when you’re juggling multiple dishes. With just a few ingredients, you can create something that looks and tastes gourmet. I often double the recipe for larger gatherings, as it disappears quickly!

Best Ways to Store

To keep your Cranberry Pepper Jelly Spread fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for up to a week. If you want to prepare it ahead of time, you can make it a day or two in advance; just remember to cover it well to prevent any drying out. This spread also freezes well! Just place it in a freezer-safe container, and it can last up to three months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.

Ask & Learn

Can I make Cranberry Pepper Jelly Spread ahead of time?

Absolutely! This spread can be prepared a day or two in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

What can I serve with this spread?

This spread pairs wonderfully with crackers, sliced baguette, and fresh vegetables. It also works well as a topping for sandwiches or as a dip for pretzels.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes! While cream cheese is traditional, you can use Neufchâtel cheese for a lighter option or even goat cheese for a tangy twist.

How do I adjust the sweetness level?

If you prefer a less sweet spread, you can reduce the amount of red pepper jelly or substitute it with a less sweet alternative like jalapeño jelly.

Explore More

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• Minimalist Baker
• Food Network – Appetizer Ideas

Save & Share

If you enjoyed making this Cranberry Pepper Jelly Spread, be sure to share it with your friends and family! It’s the perfect recipe to spread joy and deliciousness at any gathering. Don’t forget to save the recipe for future use — you’ll want to make it again and again!

This Cranberry Pepper Jelly Spread will undoubtedly become a staple in your appetizer repertoire. With its delightful combination of flavors and ease of preparation, it’s sure to impress everyone who tries it. Happy spreading!