Go Back
Spicy Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread for Crackers

Tangy Spicy Cranberry Spread

A vibrant and zesty spread combining the tartness of fresh cranberries with a kick of spice and a touch of sweetness.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Appetizer, Condiment, Snack
Cuisine: Modern American
Calories: 45

Ingredients
  

Cranberry Spread
  • 12 oz fresh cranberries rinsed and sorted
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup orange juice freshly squeezed
  • 1 tbsp orange zest
  • 1 whole jalapeño seeded and finely minced
  • 1/4 tsp ground ginger
  • 1/8 tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp water

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Combine the fresh cranberries, granulated sugar, orange juice, orange zest, minced jalapeño, ground ginger, salt, and water in a medium saucepan.
  2. Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar.
  3. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about 10 to 12 minutes, or until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens into a jam-like consistency.
  4. Remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the spread to cool completely at room temperature, during which time it will thicken further.
  5. Transfer the cooled spread to a jar or airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving over cream cheese, crackers, or roasted meats.

Notes

For an even spicier kick, leave some of the seeds in the jalapeño. This spread can be made up to 5 days in advance and kept refrigerated.