Cowboy Cream Cheese Spread Recipe
Introduction
Cowboy Cream Cheese is a flavorful, spicy spread perfect for elevating your snacks and appetizers. Blending cream cheese with aromatic herbs and bold spices, it brings a zesty kick to crackers, sandwiches, or vegetable platters.
Ingredients
- 1 block (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1 tablespoon whole-grain Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried chives
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
Instructions
- Step 1: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, Dijon mustard, dried chives, parsley, thyme, garlic powder, lemon juice, paprika, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
- Step 2: Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly combined and the mixture is smooth and creamy. For quicker blending, you can use a food processor.
- Step 3: Transfer the cowboy cream cheese into an airtight container.
- Step 4: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Tips & Variations
- For a fresher herb taste, replace dried herbs with an equal amount of fresh herbs.
- Add a splash of hot sauce instead of cayenne pepper for a different kind of heat.
- Serve with toasted baguette slices or fresh vegetable sticks for a tasty appetizer.
Storage
Store the cowboy cream cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Before serving, let it sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes to soften slightly. Stir well if separation occurs. Avoid freezing, as texture may change.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use low-fat cream cheese for this recipe?
Yes, low-fat cream cheese can be used, but the spread will be less creamy and rich compared to full-fat cream cheese.
How long does the flavor improve after refrigeration?
The flavors typically meld best after at least 30 minutes to an hour in the fridge, but letting it rest overnight can deepen the taste even more.
PrintCowboy Cream Cheese Spread Recipe
Cowboy Cream Cheese is a flavorful, creamy spread blending softened cream cheese with a medley of herbs and spices including whole-grain Dijon mustard, dried chives, parsley, thyme, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper. This zesty spread is perfect for adding a kick to crackers, sandwiches, or as a dip, with a balanced taste that combines smoky, tangy, and spicy notes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: About 1 cup of cowboy cream cheese 1x
- Category: Spreads and Dips
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 block (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1 tablespoon whole-grain Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried chives
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, add softened cream cheese, whole-grain Dijon mustard, dried chives, dried parsley, dried thyme, garlic powder, lemon juice, paprika, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
- Mix Thoroughly: Stir all the ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. For faster and more even blending, you can use a food processor.
- Transfer to Container: Place the combined cowboy cream cheese into an airtight container to store.
- Chill to Blend Flavors: Refrigerate the cream cheese spread for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld and intensify.
Notes
- Soften the cream cheese to room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother texture.
- You can adjust the cayenne pepper to control the spiciness according to your preference.
- This spread can be used as a dip for vegetables or crackers, or as a spread on sandwiches and bagels.
- Store in the refrigerator and consume within 3-5 days for optimal freshness.
- Using a food processor can speed up the mixing and ensure a perfectly blended consistency.
Keywords: Cowboy Cream Cheese, Cream Cheese Spread, Spicy Cream Cheese, Herb Cream Cheese, No Cook Dip, Appetizer Spread
