Curried Cream Cheese Spread

My in-laws are often away for the holidays so we will often celebrate Christmas with them before they leave.  This year my mother-in-law made a wonderful spread that we couldn't seem to get enough of. I asked her for the recipe and made it for our annual Wine and Cheese potluck and everyone seemed to enjoy it as well.  It is a very simple recipe she got from a friend of hers but I am sure it will be come one of my go to appetizers.
The amounts for the spices are just a guide, you can add more or less depending on your personal tastes.  Just remember if you make it ahead of time that the flavour will develop with time.  This dish can be served cold or at room temperature with crackers or what ever you like.

Curried Cream Cheese Spread

250 grams soft cream cheese

1 tbsp mango chutney

1 tbsp curry powder

1 tbsp ground cumin

red pepper jelly

dried red currents or craisins

toasted pine nuts

1. Combine the cream cheese, chutney and spices. Cream together with a spoon or a fork until thoroughly mixed.  Put this mixture into the dish you plan on serving it in.
2. Top the cream cheese mixture with a layer of red pepper jelly.
3. Mix together enough of the pine nuts and dried fruit to cover the top of the spread.  Add to the top of the spread.

Cranberry Chocolate Chip Cookies

I am very guilty of having a sweet tooth and not the greatest self control.  So last night when I saw some Craisins in the drawer and thought of a great Cranberry Chocolate Chip Cookie my aunt would make it didn't take long for me to decide I should make a batch to enjoy.

This cookie is just a little bit more grown up than your standard chocolate chip cookie recipe.  I really enjoy the hint of cinnamon.  They freeze well so if you have room in your freezer why not make a double batch?

Cranberry Chocolate Chip Cookies

1 cup flour

3/4 tsp cinnamon

1/2 tsp baking powder

1/2 tsp baking soda

1/2 tsp salt

1/2 cup butter

1/2 cup white sugar

1/2 brown sugar

1 egg

1/2 tsp vanilla

2 cups rolled oats

1 cup dried cranberries

1 cup dark chocolate chips or carob 

1. Combine the flour, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda and salt in a small bowl.
2. Cream together the butter and sugars.  Add the egg and vanilla and mix until combined.
3. Stir in the flour mixture small parts at a time. Then add the rolled oats.
4. Add the cranberries and chocolate chips
5. Place tablespoon size drops of the dough on a cookie sheet and bake at 350 for 13-15 minutes.