Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

　　

Ingredients

Makes about 3 cups

　　1 cup dried sour cherries

　　1 cup water

　　two 8-ounce packages cream cheese, softened

　　1/2 cup chopped toasted pecans

　　1 tablespoon fresh lime juice

　　1/2 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves

　　1/4 teaspoon freshly grated lime zest

　　scones or crackers as accompaniments

　　

Step 1

In a small heavy saucepan simmer cherries in water until liquid is reduced to about 1 tablespoon. Remove pan from heat and cool mixture.

　　

Step 2

In a bowl whisk together cream cheese, pecans, lime juice, thyme, zest, cherry mixture, and salt and pepper to taste until spread is combined well. Spread may be made 2 days ahead and kept chilled, covered.

　　

Step 3

Serve spread with scones or crackers.