Cranberry Chutney with Cream Cheese Recipe

Overview:

Indulge in the delightful blend of tart cranberries, sweet apples, and zesty orange in this Cranberry Chutney with Cream Cheese recipe. Perfect for spreading on crackers or pairing with your favorite brunch items, this chutney adds a burst of festive flavor to any occasion. With just 20 minutes of preparation and 20 minutes of cooking time, you’ll have a homemade treat ready to impress your guests.

Recipe Details:

• Name: Cranberry Chutney with Cream Cheese
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 10
• Calories per Serving: 166.8
• Recipe Category: Chutneys
• Keywords: Sauces, Spreads, Low Protein, Christmas, Brunch, < 60 Mins, Stove Top

Ingredients:

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chutney:

   • In a medium saucepan, combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, and water. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat.

2. Add the Fruits:

   • Stir in the chopped tart green apples and let them simmer in the sugar syrup for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.

3. Incorporate Cranberries and Zest:

   • Add the fresh cranberries and orange zest to the saucepan. Continue to cook the mixture for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cranberries are softened and the chutney has thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

4. Chill the Chutney:

   • Once the chutney reaches your desired consistency, spoon it into a tightly covered container. Refrigerate for up to 2 weeks to allow the flavors to meld and intensify.

5. Prepare the Cream Cheese Tree:

   • When ready to serve, cut the block of cream cheese into a Christmas tree shape using a sharp knife. Alternatively, you can simply serve the cream cheese block as is.

6. Decorate the Tree:

   • If desired, brush the cream cheese tree with food color to resemble the branches. Press nuts onto the bottom of the tree to create a “trunk” effect.

7. Garnish and Serve:

   • Remove a few cooked cranberries from the chutney and use them to decorate the cream cheese tree along with bell pepper cutouts, if desired. Serve the cranberry chutney alongside the cream cheese tree with a selection of crackers for a festive appetizer.

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: 166.8 per serving
• Fat Content: 8g
• Saturated Fat Content: 5g
• Cholesterol Content: 24.9mg
• Sodium Content: 70.5mg
• Carbohydrate Content: 23.4g
• Fiber Content: 2.2g
• Sugar Content: 19g
• Protein Content: 1.9g

Tips and Variations:

• Make Ahead: This cranberry chutney can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, making it an ideal make-ahead appetizer for holiday gatherings.
• Customize the Shape: Get creative with the presentation by shaping the cream cheese into different holiday-themed designs, such as snowflakes, wreaths, or stars.
• Spice it Up: Add a hint of warmth to the chutney by incorporating spices such as cinnamon, cloves, or ginger for an extra festive touch.
• Serve with Cheese Board: Elevate your cheese board by including this cranberry chutney alongside an assortment of cheeses, crackers, and cured meats for a stunning and delicious spread.

Conclusion:

With its vibrant colors, bold flavors, and easy preparation, this Cranberry Chutney with Cream Cheese recipe is sure to become a festive favorite in your culinary repertoire. Whether served as an appetizer at a holiday gathering or enjoyed as a sweet and savory snack, this chutney is bound to impress with its irresistible taste and elegant presentation. Gather your ingredients and get ready to delight your taste buds with this delightful seasonal treat! 🎄🍽️