A Flavor-Packed Smoked Cream Cheese Recipe You’ll Love! If you’re searching for a simple yet incredibly delicious appetizer, this smoked cream cheese is a game-changer. With just two essential ingredients, this dish transforms into a smoky, creamy, and utterly addictive treat. A generous coating of a flavorful dry rub and two hours of slow smoking on a pellet grill result in a velvety smooth, savory delight that’s perfect for any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Smoked Cream Cheese Recipe

• Minimal Ingredients, Maximum Flavor – All you need is cream cheese and a homemade or store-bought BBQ rub to create a rich, indulgent appetizer.
• Effortless Preparation – Just coat, score, and smoke—it’s that easy!
• Versatile Serving Options – Pair it with crackers, crostini, or fresh veggies for the perfect bite.
• Crowd-Pleasing Snack – Whether hosting a party or enjoying a quiet night, this smoky cream cheese will be a hit.

Essential Ingredients & Substitutions

Cream Cheese: Opt for full-fat cream cheese for a richer and creamier texture. Reduced-fat or fat-free varieties tend to lack the depth of flavor and the same smooth consistency.

Dry Rub: A great dry rub is key to infusing the cream cheese with layers of sweet, smoky, and spicy goodness. A combination of brown sugar, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder creates the perfect balance. If short on time, a quality BBQ rub from the store will work just as well.

Optional Additions:

• Olive Oil – A light drizzle before smoking enhances the richness and helps lock in moisture.
• Honey – A touch of honey at the end balances the smoky and savory flavors with a hint of sweetness.
• Green Onion – Freshly sliced green onion adds color and a mild bite, complementing the creamy texture.

How to Make Smoked Cream Cheese Like a Pro

Step 1: Prepare Your Pellet Grill Preheat your pellet grill to 250°F. This low and slow cooking method allows the smoky flavor to penetrate deeply into the cream cheese, enhancing its taste and texture.

Step 2: Coat the Cream Cheese Pour your dry rub onto a plate and press the cream cheese into the seasoning, ensuring an even coating on all sides. The seasoning will form a flavorful crust that intensifies as it smokes.

Step 3: Score the Top Using a sharp knife, gently score the top of the cream cheese block in a crosshatch pattern. This step is crucial as it helps the smoke infuse evenly and allows for better heat distribution, ensuring a perfectly warm and creamy center.

Step 4: Smoke the Cream Cheese Place the seasoned cream cheese in a disposable aluminum pan or cast-iron skillet. Transfer it to the smoker and let it absorb the smoky flavors for two hours. The exterior will firm up slightly, while the inside remains velvety smooth.

Step 5: Finishing Touches Drizzle with honey for a hint of sweetness and garnish with fresh green onions. Serve immediately with crispy crostini, crackers, or sliced baguette.

Pro Tips for the Best Smoked Cream Cheese

• Use a Sharp Knife to Score – Prevent sticking by lightly wetting your knife before scoring.
• Check for Doneness – The edges should begin pulling apart, and the center should be warm to the touch.
• Make It for a Crowd – Smoke multiple blocks of cream cheese at once to accommodate larger gatherings.

Delicious Ways to Serve Smoked Cream Cheese Enjoy your smoked cream cheese with a variety of dippers, such as:

• Crackers & Crostini – Perfect for a crunchy contrast.
• Sliced French Baguette – A classic pairing with smoky, creamy flavors.
• Fresh Veggies – Carrots, celery, and cucumber slices add freshness.
• Apple Slices – A sweet and tangy contrast to the smoky richness.
• Pita Chips & Tortilla Chips – Great for scooping up every bit of flavor.

FAQs About Smoked Cream Cheese

Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?

A: Cream cheese works best because of its creamy texture, but you can also try ricotta or brie for a variation.

Q: How long can smoked cream cheese be stored?

A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Q: Can I make this recipe without a smoker?

A: Yes! Bake the cream cheese in an oven at 250°F for a similar effect, adding a dash of liquid smoke for flavor.

Smoked Cream Cheese Recipe

Smoky and Creamy Two-Ingredient Appetizer A simple yet flavorful smoked cream cheese recipe that’s perfect for parties, gatherings, or a delicious snack. Just season, smoke, and enjoy!

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes
Servings: 8
Category: Appetizer
Method: Pellet Grill
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients:

• 8 oz. block of full-fat cream cheese
• 2 tablespoons dry rub (homemade or store-bought)

Optional:

• 1–2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 2 tablespoons sliced green onion

Instructions:

1. Preheat the pellet grill to 250°F.
2. Spread the dry rub on a plate.
3. Coat the block of cream cheese evenly with the dry rub.
4. Score the top of the cream cheese in a crosshatch pattern.
5. Place the seasoned block in an aluminum pan or cast-iron skillet.
6. Smoke for 2 hours until the edges pull apart and the center is warm.
7. Drizzle with honey and garnish with green onion.
8. Serve with crackers, crostini, or fresh vegetables.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: 103
• Sugar: 1.1g
• Sodium: 89.5mg
• Fat: 9.9g
• Carbohydrates: 2.3g
• Fiber: 0.1g
• Protein: 1.9g
• Cholesterol: 28.7mg

Enjoy this smoky cream cheese as a rich and creamy appetizer that’s guaranteed to impress!