Cranberry-Caramelized Onion Cheese Spread

A sweet and savory mixture of cranberries and caramelized onions, with a garnish of chopped walnuts, top a seasoned cream cheese spread.

Recipe Ingredients:

1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
1 (4-ounce) package crumbled blue cheese, room temperature
1 cup (4-ounces) finely shredded Cheddar, room temperature
2 teaspoons vegetable oil
1 medium sweet onion, sliced and quartered
1 teaspoon granulated sugar
1 cup Ocean Spray® Fresh or Frozen Cranberries
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup water
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
1/4 cup coarsely chopped walnuts

Cooking Directions:

1. Combine cream cheese and blue cheese in a medium mixing bowl; beat with electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Add Cheddar cheese; beat until well blended. Spread in shallow serving bowl. Cover; refrigerate at least 1 hour to blend flavors.
2. Meanwhile, heat oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion; cook and stir 2 to 4 minutes or until tender. Reduce heat to medium-low; stir in 1 teaspoon sugar. Cook for 10 to 12 minutes or until onion is soft and golden, stirring occasionally. Remove onion from skillet; set aside,
3. In same skillet, combine cranberries, remaining sugar and water. Cook over medium heat about 5 minutes or until cranberries pop and mixture thickens, stirring occasionally. Stir in vinegar and onions. Cool slightly.
4. To serve, bring cheese spread to room temperature. Spoon cranberry mixture over cheese spread; sprinkle with walnuts. Serve with assorted crackers.
   

Makes 24 servings.

Recipe and photograph provided courtesy of Ocean Spray Cranberries, Inc.