Smoked Cream Cheese: A Creamy, Flavor-Packed Appetizer You Need to Try

Name: Smoked Cream Cheese: A Creamy, Flavor-Packed Appetizer You Need to Try
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 10 min
Yield: 8 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups cream cheese, softened; 1 tablespoon garlic powder; 1 tablespoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon black pepper; Crackers or toasted baguette slices; Fresh vegetable sticks (carrots, celery, bell peppers); Pickles or olives for a tangy contrast; A chilled glass of white wine or a light beer

By Jason Griffith

April 28, 2025 3 Min Read

Smoked Cream Cheese: A Flavorful Twist on a Classic

Growing up, my family had a tradition of gathering around the grill every summer weekend. The smoky aroma of barbecued meats filled the air, but it was the unexpected appetizers that always stole the show. One of my favorites was smoked cream cheese, a dish that seemed simple yet packed with flavor. It became a staple at our gatherings, and now, I want to share this delightful recipe with you.

What Makes It Special

This smoked cream cheese recipe stands out for several reasons:

Unique Flavor: The infusion of smoke adds a depth that transforms ordinary cream cheese into a gourmet treat.
Versatile Appetizer: It pairs beautifully with crackers, veggies, or even as a spread on sandwiches.
Easy to Make: With minimal ingredients and effort, you can impress your guests with a delicious dish.

Gather Your Ingredients

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 2 hours | Servings: 8

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Wood chips for smoking (hickory or applewood recommended)

Let’s Get Cooking

Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C). If you don’t have a smoker, you can use a grill with indirect heat.
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
Transfer the cream cheese mixture to a small cast-iron skillet or a disposable aluminum pan.
Add your wood chips to the smoker or grill, and place the skillet with the cream cheese inside.
Smoke for about 2 hours, or until the cream cheese is warm and infused with a smoky flavor.
Remove from the smoker and let it cool slightly before serving.

My Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add some chopped jalapeños or your favorite herbs to the cream cheese mixture before smoking.
Experiment with different wood chips to find your favorite flavor profile.

What to Serve With It

Crackers or toasted baguette slices
Fresh vegetable sticks (carrots, celery, bell peppers)
Pickles or olives for a tangy contrast
A chilled glass of white wine or a light beer

FAQs

Q: Can I make this in the oven?

A: Yes! Preheat your oven to 225°F (107°C) and use a smoking box or a foil packet with wood chips to create smoke.

Q: How long can I store smoked cream cheese?

A: It can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

The Heart of the Dish

What I love most about this smoked cream cheese is how it brings people together. Whether it’s a summer barbecue or a cozy winter gathering, this dish sparks joy and conversation. It’s a reminder of those cherished family moments, and I hope it creates new memories for you and your loved ones.

Your Turn

I invite you to try this smoked cream cheese recipe at your next gathering. Feel free to tweak the ingredients to suit your taste, and don’t forget to share your experiences and variations with me. Happy cooking!