11.28.2010

Creamy Cranberry Hazelnut Spread

Creamy Cranberry Hazelnut Spread
This might just be one of the easiest dips I've ever created and within minutes of putting it out, it's usually gone.  What's not to love? Soft, warm cream cheese punctuated by tart, chewy dried cranberries and crunchy hazelnuts and then thickly spread over woven wheat crackers with tendrils of swiss cheese falling over the edges.  Um, yum is all I have to say about that.  I created this recipe a couple of Thanksgivings ago and it's my Mom's favorite.  A staple on the snack table from Fall to Spring, my Mom has even been known to ask me to make this for her in the summer.  I can't say I blame her, it's pretty darn good.

Dried Cranberries
I think that this spread works best with wheat crackers (such as Triscut) and I also like to serve it with Rosemary crackers as well (again, I recommend the Rosmary Olive Oil variety of Triscuts).  Or if you prefer, thin slices of toasted baguette can be subbed for the crackers.

Creamy Cranberry Hazelnut Spread

Creamy Cranberry Hazelnut Spread

- 1 package of cream cheese
- 2 tbs milk
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 2 tbs chopped hazelnuts, divided
- 1/8 tsp grated orange peel
- A couple pinches of nutmeg
- 1/4 cup shredded swiss cheese, divided

In an oven safe bowl, combine the cream cheese milk and cranberries with a fork.  Add 1 tbs of the hazelnuts, the grated orange peel and the nutmeg.  Mix in 1/2 of the swiss cheese.  Flatten the dip into an even layer in the bowl.  Top with the rest of the swiss cheese and bake at 350 for about 10 minutes until the cheese starts to melt.  Once this happens, take out the dip and top with the rest of the hazelnuts.  Bake for an additional 5-7 minutes until the hazelnuts get toasted.

11 comments:

Jennifer said...

I've been on such a cranberry kick lately. My mom keeps asking where all the craisins in the nut mix have gone...
This dip looks delish!

KC said...

That dip looks great - I may need to add this to the Christmas Eve menu!

Fun and Fearless in Beantown said...

This looks great! I only make savory dips so I'm intrigued by a sweet one!

Mom said...

Thanks Kate for making this again for us for Thanksgiving!! The picture doesn't do it justice....it is one of the best cheese spreads I have ever had. You're the best!!

MichellePC said...

This sounds fabulous! Warm cheese, cranberries AND hazelnuts - there really is nothing in there I don't love. Thanks for the recipe!

Meghan@travelwinedine said...

I am soooo making this for Christmas Eve! Yum!

Alicia said...

mmm -- looks good!

Delicious Dishings said...

I've been waiting for this recipe! The dip sounds so good. I don't blame your mom for wanting it in the summer either! Ha

Anonymous said...

I'm totally going to try this. I'm totally tempted to experiment with other soft cheeses, like a farmer's cheese or mascarpone. Yumm

scottiedc said...

i love cranberry season especially in MA! Cranberry sauce is a great addition to muffins if you're looking for something other than a sandwich topping. happy eats!

Boston Food Diary said...

Um yum. That is all- aside from Rosemary Olive Oil Triscuts ARE the best!

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