Smoked cream cheese recipe is a simple yet flavorful appetizer born from the love of backyard BBQ and easy entertaining. This recipe captures the essence of slow smoking by infusing a basic block of cream cheese with rich smoky aromas, enhanced by a savory spice rub. Inspired by casual gatherings and game day snacks, it combines minimal ingredients with maximum flavor, offering a creamy, smoky treat that’s perfect for sharing. It’s a nod to classic Southern smokehouse traditions while keeping preparation quick and approachable for home cooks.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Smoked cream cheese recipe offers a smoky twist on a classic creamy favorite. This dish requires just two simple ingredients—cream cheese and your preferred spice rub—to create an appetizer bursting with rich, smoky flavor and smooth texture. By smoking the cheese at a low temperature of 225°F for about 2 hours, the cream cheese softens perfectly without melting, absorbing beautiful smoky notes. It’s easy to prepare, impressive for guests, and pairs wonderfully with crackers, making it a go-to option for parties, snacks, or casual gatherings.
Ingredients List
- 8 ounces cream cheese
- 2 tablespoons spice blend (use your favorite BBQ rub or custom seasoning)
Smoked Cream Cheese Recipe: Easy & Flavorful 2-Ingredient
- Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
Smoked cream cheese with a flavorful spice rub, smoked low and slow for 2 hours at 225°F for a creamy, smoky appetizer perfect with crackers.
Ingredients
8 ounces cream cheese
2 tablespoons spice blend
Instructions
1. Sprinkle spice blend on a plate and roll the unwrapped cream cheese block to coat evenly.
2. Place coated cream cheese in a foil pan and score a cross-hatch pattern on top.
3. Smoke at 225°F for 2 hours.
4. Serve with crackers and enjoy!
Notes
Maintain steady smoker temperature to avoid melting.
Foil wrap for milder smoke flavor.
Try different wood chips like apple or hickory for varied smoke.
Store leftovers refrigerated up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Smoking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ounce
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 100
- Fat: 8
- Saturated Fat: 5
- Unsaturated Fat: 2
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 2
- Fiber: 0
- Protein: 3
- Cholesterol: 30
Keywords: smoked cream cheese recipe, smoked appetizer, bbq cheese
These simple ingredients ensure a flavorful smoked cheese with minimal prep. Opt for softened cream cheese at room temperature to help the spice blend stick better. Choosing a dry rub with smoked paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper can enhance the smoky flavor naturally. Feel free to switch up the seasoning to include cumin or cayenne if you want added depth or heat.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sprinkle your favorite spice blend on a large plate or tray to create an even coating surface.
- Roll the unwrapped 8-ounce block of cream cheese in the spice blend, pressing gently to coat all sides evenly.
Placement: Immediately following the step describing rolling the cheese
- Place the coated cream cheese block in a disposable foil pan. Using a small, sharp knife, cut shallow cross-hatches into the top of the cream cheese to help smoke penetrate.
- Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C).
- Smoke the cream cheese block, uncovered, for about 2 hours until it softens and absorbs a lovely smoky flavor.
- Remove from the smoker and serve with your favorite crackers to enjoy a creamy, smoky appetizer.
Smoking at a consistent temperature is crucial to avoid melting the cheese. Always check the internal smoker temperature and add wood chips as needed for continuous smoke. This recipe is perfect for beginners as it requires minimal active cooking time but delivers big on flavor.
Expert Cooking Tips & Variations
For the best results with your smoked cream cheese recipe, keep the smoker temperature steady around 225°F to prevent melting and ensure perfect smoke absorption. If you prefer milder smoke flavor, wrap the cream cheese loosely in aluminum foil before smoking to soften the intensity. Experiment with wood chips like apple, hickory, or pecan to find your favorite smoky aroma. For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne or crushed red pepper to the spice blend. This recipe is naturally low carb and vegetarian-friendly, making it easy to customize for dietary needs. Serve topped with fresh herbs or drizzle with honey for a sweet-savory twist.
To vary the flavor, try adding minced fresh jalapenos or smoked peppers to the spice blend. Another variation is to stir in shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese before smoking for a cheesier version. You can also shape the cheese into logs or balls rather than blocks for different presentations.
Nutrition Information
A typical 1-ounce serving of smoked cream cheese recipe contains approximately 90 calories, 8 grams of fat, 3 grams of protein, and 2 grams of carbohydrates. The fat content comes mainly from the cream cheese, providing a creamy texture and satisfying richness. Sodium levels may vary depending on the spice blend used, so adjust accordingly if you prefer a lower sodium option. This appetizer fits well into low-carb and vegetarian dietary preferences when enjoyed in moderate portions.
Cream cheese also provides calcium and vitamin A, contributing some nutritional benefits beyond flavor. By smoking the cheese, you add no additional calories, but the flavor profile is elevated, making it a popular addition to cheese boards and party platters. As with all rich cheese dishes, moderation is key, especially for those watching saturated fat or cholesterol intake.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store leftover smoked cream cheese recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It’s important to keep it tightly sealed to prevent the cheese from drying out or absorbing other refrigerator odors. For best flavor retention, bring the cheese to room temperature before serving leftovers to regain its creamy texture.
If you’d like to keep it longer, smoked cream cheese recipe freezes well for up to 3 months. Wrap the cheese block tightly in plastic wrap then foil or place it in a freezer-safe bag to reduce freezer burn. Thaw the cheese overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
To reheat, place the cream cheese in an oven-safe dish and warm at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, checking frequently to avoid melting into a runny state. Alternatively, you can serve it cold or at room temperature for a firmer texture with a richer flavor.
Do not reheat smoked cream cheese recipe in a microwave as it can melt unevenly and change the texture. Proper storage and reheating keep this appetizer fresh and delicious for your next event.
Serving Suggestions
Smoked cream cheese recipe appetizer pairs perfectly with a variety of crackers, bagel chips, or pita wedges that provide a crunchy contrast to the creamy, smoky cheese. Fresh vegetable sticks like celery, carrot, and cucumber also complement the rich flavors and balance the spice if you’ve added heat to your seasoning.
For party spreads or game days, serve alongside cured meats, olives, and pickled vegetables to create a diverse and colorful charcuterie board. A dollop of honey, pepper jelly, or a drizzle of olive oil and fresh herbs like chives or cilantro can brighten the presentation and add layers of flavor.
Pair smoked cream cheese recipe with wines such as a dry Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, or lightly oaked Chardonnay, which cut through the richness and enhance the smoky notes. This appetizer also works well alongside grilled chicken or smoked ribs for a cohesive BBQ-themed meal.
Try adding a fresh squeeze of lime juice just before serving for a zesty aroma that wakes up the palate. The versatility of this recipe means it shines during casual family dinners but also impresses guests at more formal gatherings.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What do you put on cream cheese when you smoke it?
Typically, a dry spice blend or BBQ rub is applied to the cream cheese to add flavor and create a tasty crust during smoking. Common spices include smoked paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, and chili powder.
What temperature do you smoke cream cheese at?
The recommended temperature for smoking cream cheese is around 225°F (107°C). This low and slow approach ensures the cheese softens and absorbs smoke without melting.
Does cream cheese melt when smoked?
At the right temperature (around 225°F), cream cheese softens to a spreadable texture without melting into a runny mess. Higher temperatures can cause it to melt excessively, so temperature control is essential.
Is 250 too hot to smoke cream cheese?
250°F is near the upper limit. While not ideal, it can be used cautiously. Temperatures above 275°F are likely to melt the cheese too much, spoiling the texture.
How long will smoked cream cheese recipe last?
Smoked cream cheese recipe lasts about 5 days refrigerated in an airtight container. For longer storage, it can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Do you wrap cream cheese in foil when smoking?
Wrapping is optional. Unwrapped smoking creates a stronger smoke flavor and crust, while wrapping loosely in foil reduces smoke intensity and keeps the texture softer.
Related Recipes :
If you enjoy this smoked cream cheese recipe, you might also like these tasty dishes on CoraRecipe.com:
- Cream Cheese Stuffed Jalapeno Poppers – a spicy favorite perfect for game days.
- Spicy Jalapeno Cream Cheese Dip – a smooth, dip-able version for snack boards.
- Baked Cream Cheese Pasta Casserole – combining rich cheese flavors for a comforting meal
- Smoked cream cheese recipe.
These recipes complement the smoky, creamy profile of this appetizer and are great internal linking opportunities to keep your readers engaged on your site.
Comments and User Reviews Section
Families love this smoked cream cheese recipe for its bold flavor and creamy texture that appeals to all ages. Friends often bring it to gatherings as a no-fail crowd pleaser. Some like to spice it up with more cayenne, while others add a touch of sweetness with honey or pepper jelly. Leftovers rarely last long, testifying to how addictive this simple appetizer can be.
Try making it for your next party or casual night in, and share your variations or serving ideas in the comments. Your feedback helps others discover new ways to enjoy smoked cream cheese recipe, building a community of fellow food lovers.