why make this recipe
Zippy Cranberry Appetizer is a unique and tasty dish that is perfect for any gathering. The combination of sweet and tangy cranberries with the kick of horseradish makes it a memorable starter. It’s easy to prepare and can be a colorful addition to your table. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with cream cheese and crackers, making it a hit with guests.
how to make Zippy Cranberry Appetizer
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 package (12 ounces) fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 to 3 tablespoons prepared horseradish
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
- Assorted crackers
Directions:
- In a saucepan, combine sugar, brown sugar, and water.
- Stir in cranberries and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer until cranberries burst, about 10 minutes.
- Stir in horseradish and Dijon mustard.
- Let the mixture cool.
- Spread cream cheese on a serving platter and top with the cranberry mixture.
- Serve with assorted crackers.
how to serve Zippy Cranberry Appetizer
Serve the Zippy Cranberry Appetizer as an opening dish at your next party or family gathering. Put the cream cheese on a large platter and spoon the tangy cranberry mix on top. Surround it with assorted crackers for dipping. Guests will love pairing the creamy cheese with the flavorful cranberry topping.
how to store Zippy Cranberry Appetizer
If you have leftover cranberry mixture, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The mixture will last for about three days. It’s best to keep the cream cheese and cranberry layer separate until you are ready to serve again. Then, simply spread the cream cheese and add the cranberry topping when you’re ready to enjoy.
tips to make Zippy Cranberry Appetizer
- Adjust the amount of horseradish to suit your taste. Start with one tablespoon and add more if you like it spicier.
- Use fresh cranberries when in season for the best flavor, but frozen cranberries work perfectly too.
- Experiment with different types of crackers for serving to add variety.
variation
You can add diced green onions or chopped pecans to the cranberry mixture for added flavor and texture. Another option is to mix in some crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
FAQs
Can I make this appetizer ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cranberry mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just add it to the cream cheese right before serving.
Can I use dried cranberries instead?
Dried cranberries may not provide the same tartness and burst of flavor as fresh or frozen cranberries, but you can use them in a pinch. Just soak them in hot water for a few minutes to soften before using.
What can I serve with this appetizer besides crackers?
You can serve this delicious mixture with fresh vegetables, such as celery sticks or cucumber slices, for a healthier option. It also pairs well with sliced baguette.
Zippy Cranberry Appetizer
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A unique and tasty dish combining sweet and tangy cranberries with horseradish, perfect for gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 package (12 ounces) fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 to 3 tablespoons prepared horseradish
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
- Assorted crackers
Instructions
- In a saucepan, combine sugar, brown sugar, and water.
- Stir in cranberries and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer until cranberries burst, about 10 minutes.
- Stir in horseradish and Dijon mustard.
- Let the mixture cool.
- Spread cream cheese on a serving platter and top with the cranberry mixture.
- Serve with assorted crackers.
Notes
Adjust the amount of horseradish to suit your taste. Best served fresh with cream cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No cooking required after preparing the cranberry mixture
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: cranberries, appetizer, party food, cream cheese, easy recipe, holiday dish