Ok, I know the food at Starbucks is a little on the pricey side. But everyone has at least one favorite item from the illuminated case. Mine? The Turkey Pesto Baguette, hands down. However, the last time I slapped down that $6.75 (or is it $7.45?) , I arrived at a crucial decision: Figure out how to duplicate their delectable pesto spread – and don’t forget those dried cranberries. Hence, I present you my version, which also pairs nicely with bagel chips, Wheat Thins…pretty much anything you’d like to add some oh-so-worth-it calories to.

Turkey Pesto Spread, ala Starbucks

• 8 oz. whipped cream cheese
  12 basil leaves, washed with stems trimmed
• 1 tsp. garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp. salt
• Dried cranberries as desired

Mix cream cheese, basil, garlic powder, and salt in food processor until cream cheese is smooth and basil appears minced (about 30 pulses, or 45 continuous seconds). Spread desired portion (I think Starbucks uses about 2 tbs.) on baguette sandwich, topping with cranberries as desired. Transfer unused portion to storage container.