Get ready to elevate your snacking game with this smoked cream cheese recipe! It’s creamy, dreamy, and infused with a delightful smoky flavor that’ll have your taste buds dancing. Just mix your favorite herbs and spices into the cream cheese, pop it in the smoker, and let the magic happen. Serve it with fresh veggies, crackers, or slather it on a bagel for a breakfast treat that’s anything but ordinary. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll be hooked on the rich, smoky goodness that’s perfect for any gathering!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Trust me, you’re going to love the creamy texture with a smoky twist!
- This one’s a game-changer for your next BBQ or gathering.
- It’s super easy to make—just mix, smoke, and enjoy!
- Perfect for spreading on crackers or using as a dip with veggies.
- Impress your friends with a unique flavor that’s totally unforgettable!
Recipe Snapshot
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Category | Side Dish |
Cuisine | American-inspired comfort food |
Prep Time | 10 minutes |
Cook Time | 15 minutes |
Total Time | 25 minutes |
Dietary | Vegetarian |
Serves | 4 |
Best Served | Hot and cheesy right off the cob! |
Ingredients
- Cream Cheese – The star of the show, providing a rich and creamy base.
- Smoked Paprika – Adds a smoky flavor without the need for actual smoke.
- Garlic Powder – Enhances the overall flavor with a savory kick.
- Onion Powder – Complements the garlic and adds depth to the taste.
- Black Pepper – A dash of spice to elevate the flavor profile.
- Salt – Essential for bringing out all the delicious flavors.
- Olive Oil – Helps to create a smooth texture and adds richness.
- Fresh Herbs (like chives or dill) – For a fresh, vibrant finish and added flavor.
Ingredients with measurements will be right under the article in the recipe card.
How to Make the Recipe
Get ready to create a delicious smoked cream cheese recipe that will wow your taste buds!
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Collect 8 oz of cream cheese, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, salt and pepper to taste, and your favorite wood chips for smoking.
Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese
Let the cream cheese sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This makes it easier to mix and smoke.
Step 3: Mix the Seasonings
In a bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until well blended.
Step 4: Coat the Cream Cheese
Spread the seasoning mixture evenly over the softened cream cheese. Make sure every inch is covered for maximum flavor!
Step 5: Prepare Your Smoker
Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C). Add your favorite wood chips for that smoky goodness.
Step 6: Smoke the Cream Cheese
Place the seasoned cream cheese on a piece of aluminum foil or in a small cast-iron skillet. Smoke for 1 hour, checking occasionally.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once smoked, let it cool for a few minutes. Serve with crackers, veggies, or spread on your favorite bread!
Step 8: Enjoy!
Dig in and savor the explosion of flavors in every bite. Share with friends or keep it all to yourself!
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
- Use full-fat cream cheese for a richer, creamier texture.
- Let the cream cheese sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before smoking for even flavor absorption.
- Experiment with different wood chips like hickory or apple for unique flavor profiles.
- Keep the smoker temperature around 225°F for the best results.
- Serve with fresh veggies or crackers for a delightful contrast to the creamy cheese.
How to Serve
Enjoy your smoked cream cheese recipe with these fun ideas:
- Spread it on toasted bagels for a delicious breakfast.
- Serve with fresh veggies like carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers for a healthy snack.
- Pair with crackers and fruit for a delightful cheese board.
- Use as a dip for pretzels or pita chips at your next gathering.
- Top grilled chicken or fish for an extra flavor boost.
- Mix into pasta for a creamy, smoky sauce.
- Slather on sandwiches or wraps for a tasty twist.
- Enjoy with a drizzle of honey and nuts for a sweet-savory treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Proper storage ensures your smoked cream cheese recipe stays delicious for later enjoyment.
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the smoked cream cheese recipe to cool completely.
- Transfer it to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- Label the container with the date for easy tracking.
Freezing
- Wrap the smoked cream cheese recipe tightly in plastic wrap.
- Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Label with the date and freeze for up to three months.
Reheating
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheat gently in the microwave in short intervals.
- Stir occasionally to maintain a smooth texture.
FAQs
What type of cream cheese should I use for this recipe?
You can use regular, low-fat, or even non-dairy cream cheese. Just ensure it’s softened for easy mixing and smoking. The flavor will still be delicious!
Can I use a different type of wood for smoking?
Absolutely! While hickory and mesquite are popular, fruit woods like apple or cherry can add a lovely sweetness to your smoked cream cheese recipe. Experiment to find your favorite!
How long should I smoke the cream cheese?
Smoking for about 1 to 2 hours at a low temperature is ideal. This allows the cream cheese to absorb the smoky flavor without melting away. smoked cream cheese recipe
Can I add other flavors or toppings to the cream cheese?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in herbs, spices, or even a drizzle of honey after smoking for an extra flavor boost. Get creative!
Final Thoughts
There you have it, friends! Your very own smoked cream cheese recipe masterpiece awaits. It’s simple, fun, and bursting with flavor—perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. So fire up that smoker, gather your loved ones, and enjoy every creamy, smoky bite. You’ll be the star of the show, and trust me, everyone will be asking for your secret recipe!
smoked cream cheese recipe
Equipment
- 1 Smoker Preheat to 225°F (107°C)
- 1 Aluminum foil or small cast-iron skillet For smoking the cream cheese
Ingredients
Dairy
- 8 oz Cream Cheese The star of the show, providing a rich and creamy base.
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil Helps to create a smooth texture and adds richness.
Seasonings
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder Enhances the overall flavor with a savory kick.
- 1 tsp Onion Powder Complements the garlic and adds depth to the taste.
- 1 tsp Smoked Paprika Adds a smoky flavor without the need for actual smoke.
- to taste Salt Essential for bringing out all the delicious flavors.
- to taste Black Pepper A dash of spice to elevate the flavor profile.
Fresh Herbs
- to taste Fresh Herbs (like chives or dill) For a fresh, vibrant finish and added flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- Get ready to create a delicious smoked cream cheese that will wow your taste buds!
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
- Collect 8 oz of cream cheese, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, salt and pepper to taste, and your favorite wood chips for smoking.
Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese
- Let the cream cheese sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This makes it easier to mix and smoke.
Step 3: Mix the Seasonings
- In a bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until well blended.
Step 4: Coat the Cream Cheese
- Spread the seasoning mixture evenly over the softened cream cheese. Make sure every inch is covered for maximum flavor!
Step 5: Prepare Your Smoker
- Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C). Add your favorite wood chips for that smoky goodness.
Step 6: Smoke the Cream Cheese
- Place the seasoned cream cheese on a piece of aluminum foil or in a small cast-iron skillet. Smoke for 1 hour, checking occasionally.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
- Once smoked, let it cool for a few minutes. Serve with crackers, veggies, or spread on your favorite bread!
Step 8: Enjoy!
- Dig in and savor the explosion of flavors in every bite. Share with friends or keep it all to yourself!