If you’re searching for a show-stopping, cheery addition to your holiday table, get ready to swoon over this Christmas & Cream Spread. The luscious cream cheese base gets a lift from tangy cranberries and toasty pistachios, with a decadent swirl of white chocolate tying it all together. Whether you’re hosting a festive brunch or looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this dessert dip is guaranteed to have your guests coming back for more. The Christmas & Cream Spread is utterly effortless, wildly delicious, and absolutely dazzling for every celebration!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s talk about the short but mighty ingredient list for this Christmas & Cream Spread. Every element brings something special, creating a perfect blend of creamy, tart, and nutty flavors with a pop of holiday color.
- Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): The silky foundation gives the spread its luscious, unforgettable texture, so make sure it’s fully softened for easy mixing.
- Powdered sugar (1/2 cup): Adds just the right amount of sweetness, blending seamlessly into the creamy base.
- Vanilla extract (1/2 tsp): Infuses warmth and a cozy, familiar depth that ties all the flavors together.
- Almond extract (1/2 tsp): A little goes a long way—this adds a festive, bakery-style flavor that hints at marzipan.
- Dried cranberries, chopped (1/3 cup): Bursts of chewy, tangy fruit add jewel-like pops of color and tartness.
- Chopped pistachios (1/3 cup): The green shade is merry and bright, and the crunch brings delightful texture contrast.
- White chocolate chips, melted (1/4 cup): Rich, creamy, and sweet, this ties the spread together with subtle indulgence.
- Optional: extra cranberries and pistachios for garnish: Don’t skip this if you want that wow-worthy, festive finish on your Christmas & Cream Spread!
How to Make Christmas & Cream Spread
Step 1: Whip the Cream Cheese and Sugar
Start by placing the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar in a mixing bowl. Use a hand mixer on medium speed and beat until the mixture is ultra smooth, light, and fluffy—think irresistibly pillowy! This foundation is key for a perfectly creamy Christmas & Cream Spread, so take your time and make sure there are no lumps.
Step 2: Add Flavor with Extracts
Mix in the vanilla and almond extracts. Each spoonful now transforms from plain to magical. The vanilla offers classic sweetness while almond brings a festive, almost mysterious note that makes this spread taste like Christmas. Stir to blend evenly.
Step 3: Fold in Cranberries and Pistachios
Switch to a spatula and gently fold in the chopped dried cranberries and pistachios. Every scoop now sparkles with color and crunch. These mix-ins bring not only flavor but that signature holiday look, turning your spread into a visual (and edible) gift.
Step 4: Swirl in the Melted White Chocolate
Drizzle the melted white chocolate all over the mixture and give it a delicate stir to create pretty ribbons of sweetness throughout. Don’t overmix—you want those little veins of chocolate to show up in every bite, making your Christmas & Cream Spread truly luxurious.
Step 5: Shape, Garnish, and Chill
Transfer the spread into your favorite serving dish and smooth out the top with a spatula. Sprinkle extra cranberries and pistachios on top for a vibrant, restaurant-worthy finish. Cover and chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes—the flavors meld beautifully and the spread is easier to scoop.
How to Serve Christmas & Cream Spread
Garnishes
A festive garnish transforms the look of your Christmas & Cream Spread instantly. Scatter even more cranberries and pistachios over the top, or try edible glitter for extra sparkle. A drizzle of melted white chocolate or a dusting of powdered sugar can make this appetizer look straight out of a holiday magazine.
Side Dishes
This spread plays amazingly well with all sorts of dippers. Serve it with buttery shortbread cookies for a sweet treat, or contrast the flavors with crunchy cinnamon graham crackers, biscotti, or sliced crisp apples and pears. Even hearty crackers or thinly sliced baguette work nicely if you want to keep things classic and not too sweet. An array of choices means everyone can find their perfect pairing for the Christmas & Cream Spread.
Creative Ways to Present
You can let your imagination shine when presenting this dish! Try serving the Christmas & Cream Spread in a decorative bowl surrounded by an explosion of colorful dippers. For an extra special touch, scoop it into mini mason jars for gifting, or shape it into a wreath on a platter for maximum holiday flair. You can even pipe it into phyllo cups or hollowed strawberries for elegant bite-sized treats.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Christmas & Cream Spread in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh, creamy, and snackable for up to 4 days. If you prep it ahead of time, just give it a quick stir before serving to revive the fluffy texture.
Freezing
While technically possible to freeze this spread, the texture may change a bit when thawed due to the cream cheese. If you must freeze, place it in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge and stir well—just note some separation may occur.
Reheating
This spread is meant to be enjoyed cold or at cool room temperature, so reheating isn’t necessary. If you do want to soften it quickly from the fridge, just let it sit at room temp for 10-15 minutes before serving. Stir gently for best results.
FAQs
Can I make the Christmas & Cream Spread without nuts?
Absolutely! For a completely nut-free version, just swap out the pistachios for more dried cranberries, chopped dried cherries, or even festive sprinkles. The spread will still be equally delicious and eye-catching.
What should I serve alongside the spread for a holiday party?
Think of your favorite dippers: gingerbread cookies, shortbread, vanilla wafers, cinnamon pita chips, crisp apple slices, or even pretzel rods. A mix of sweet and salty options gives everyone something to love with your Christmas & Cream Spread.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, you can substitute low-fat or even nonfat cream cheese, but the final spread may be a little less rich and creamy. Full-fat cream cheese provides the best flavor and luscious mouthfeel, especially for special occasions.
How far in advance can I make this?
You can prepare the Christmas & Cream Spread up to 24 hours in advance. Store it tightly covered in the fridge until ready to serve. Wait to add garnishes until just before setting it out to keep them looking fresh.
Is there a way to make this spread more festive?
Definitely! Swap in a mix of green and red candied cherries, add a touch of orange zest, or sprinkle on edible gold stars for a magical, over-the-top finish. Your Christmas & Cream Spread will become the sparkling centerpiece of the holiday buffet.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to bring a little extra magic to your gatherings, the Christmas & Cream Spread is guaranteed to spark smiles and delicious moments. It’s festive, simple, and endlessly adaptable—perfect for both holiday traditions and last-minute parties. I can’t wait for you to share it with the people you love!
Print
Christmas & Cream Spread Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the festive spirit with this Christmas & Cream Spread, a delightful sweet and savory treat perfect for holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Cream Cheese Mixture:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp almond extract
Mix-ins:
- 1/3 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1/3 cup chopped pistachios
- 1/4 cup white chocolate chips, melted
- Optional: extra cranberries and pistachios for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare Cream Cheese Mixture: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy.
- Enhance Flavor: Add vanilla and almond extracts, mixing well.
- Add Mix-ins: Fold in chopped dried cranberries and pistachios.
- Drizzle White Chocolate: Drizzle in the melted white chocolate and stir gently to incorporate.
- Serve: Transfer to a serving dish, smooth the top, and garnish with additional cranberries and pistachios if desired. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving with crackers, cookies, or fruit.
Notes
- For a festive twist, use green and red candied cherries instead of cranberries and pistachios.
- This spread also pairs well with cinnamon graham crackers or shortbread.
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