Recipe for Rosemary and Cranberry Spread at Life's Ambrosia

I have always had a fondness for cream cheese spreads. They are super easy to make and you can add just about any flavor that you like. Take this recipe for instance. After making my Spinach, Arugula, Cranberry and Walnut Salad, I have discovered a new found love for dried cranberries and the sweetness that they add to dishes. In this recipe, their sweetness pairs nicely with the fresh rosemary and smooth cream cheese. Spread on some crisp crackers and you’ll have an addicting little snack perfect for all of your upcoming holiday festivities.

I’ve done a lot of talking about Thanksgiving dinner, but personally, one of my favorite parts of the traditional festivities is the platter of appetizers that cover the table before dinner. After all it wouldn’t be Thanksgiving if we didn’t spend the entire day eating, right? Our family breaks out the appetizer platters at about 11 am while we’re watching the last hour of the Macy’s Parade. It really is a smorgasbord of food. We usually have everything from pickles and olives, to salami and cheese to ham pin-wheels and deviled eggs. And while it may not sound like we need anything more, I couldn’t resist making just one more thing. That is where this cream cheese spreads enters the equation. Its quick, easy, full of flavor and sure to be a hit. Now, if only I can get it to my sister’s house before Ryan eats it all.

Serves 4-6

You will need:

8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
4 tablespoons dried sweetened cranberries
2 teaspoons chopped fresh rosemary
fresh cracked pepper and kosher salt

Place all cream cheese into a bowl and using a spoon, fold in all ingredients until well combined.
Serve along side crackers or toasted baguette slices.

Enjoy!

Like this recipe? Recommend it to your friends!

Responses to "Rosemary and Cranberry Spread"

“
This sounds great and is so pretty! It would be great for Christmas, too, with those colors.
”

- Carrie

“
This would make a great appetizer… or just a snack :)
”

- michelle

“
I love the idea of pairing cream cheese with just about everyth ing. It always puts a nice clean freshness into the offering, whatever that might be. This spread is colorful and with the garlic powder and the rosemary, it will suit any occasion, even the latenight snack. Thank you.
”

- Marion

“
This was WONDERFUL! Rolled it into a ball, then rolled in chopped pecans and cracked black pepper…….. there wasn’t a scrap left.
”

- Elle

“
I love dried cranberries, thank you for a great suggestion… I never thought of adding them to a cheese spread before! Thanks!
”

- Alina

“
Thank you Carrie and Michelle!
You’re welcome Marion! I also find that cream cheese is wonderful with just about anything :)
Thank Elle! I LOVE the changes that you made, I can understand why there wasn’t a scrap left.
You’re welcome Alina!
”

- Deseree

“
A very beautiful one with lots of taste and flavor. Nice combination of the tart and the sweet and the rosemary with it sounds really good.
”

- Soma

“
Thank you Soma!
”

- Deseree

“
This spread is delicious! I made it for Thanksgiving appetizers for my family and then again for my roommates when I got back. It was gone in under 10 minutes. Total winner. :)
”

- Xochi

“
Thank you Xochi! I am happy to hear that everyone enjoyed it so much and I even more flattered that you served this as part of your Thanksgiving celebration :)
”

- Deseree

“
Made this for me & a friend to snack on today while we were doing Christmas crafts. We loved it! The fresh rosemary really makes it, then there’s that bite of the tart cranberry – just excellent. I’m putting it on my appetizer menu for Christmas Eve. Thanks so much!
”

- andifoo

“
You’re welcome andifoo! It is wonderful to hear that you liked it so much :)
”

- Deseree

“
My wife and I made this for a New Year’s Day potluck, and it was amazing. Don’t be shy with the cracked pepper! Use a pink and black peppercorn blend. The pink peppercorns impart a sweet and delicate flavor, while the black peppercorns give it that true peppery flavor. (For bonus points, use a mortar and pestle to better control the size and balance of the cracked ‘corns.)
”

- Todd Ross