Contents
Unlock a world of smoky indulgence with this irresistible smoked cream cheese recipe. Blending the rich creaminess of traditional cream cheese with the robust flavors of smoke, this culinary delight is sure to become a favorite.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the delectable recipe, essential equipment, share expert tips, delve into calorie information, and guide you on how long your smoked cream cheese remains at its peak.
Equipment: Tools of Smoky Perfection
- Smoker:
An essential tool for infusing the cream cheese with that irresistible smoky flavor. (Ninja Grill & Smoker with Built-In Thermometer) - Wood Chips:
Choose quality wood chips like hickory, apple, or cherry to impart distinct flavors. - Barbecue Rub or Seasonings:
Elevate the cream cheese with a carefully chosen rub or a blend of smoked spices. (Meat Church Holy Gospel BBQ Rub) - Smoking Grates or Foil:
Ensure easy placement and removal of the cream cheese during the smoking process. (Reynolds Wrap Aluminum Foil)
Smoked Cream Cheese Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 blocks of cream cheese (8 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons of your preferred barbecue rub (Meat Church Holy Gospel BBQ Rub) or a blend of smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder
- 1 cup of wood chips (hickory, apple, or cherry)
- Crackers, bread, or veggies for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Cream Cheese
Allow the cream cheese blocks to reach room temperature for approximately 30 minutes, ensuring they are soft and easy to work with.
Step 2: Seasoning
Generously coat the cream cheese blocks with your chosen barbecue rub or the homemade blend of smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Ensure an even coating on all sides.
Step 3: Smoking Process
- Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C) and add the wood chips.
- Place the seasoned cream cheese blocks directly on the smoker grates, leaving space between them for the smoke to circulate.
Step 4: Smoking Time
Smoke the cream cheese for 1 to 1.5 hours or until it develops a golden-brown exterior. Adjust the smoking time to achieve your desired level of smokiness.
Step 5: Cooling and Serving
Allow the smoked cream cheese to cool for at least 30 minutes before refrigerating. Serve with crackers, bread, or fresh vegetables for a delightful, smoky treat.
- One 14 Ounce Bottle of BBQ Rub
- The one rub you need for every cook; beef, chicken, pork, seafood vegetables and more! Gluten Free, No MSG
- This blend is great on ribs, chicken and beef!
Expert Tips for Smoky Brilliance
- Experiment with Wood Varieties:
Different woods impart unique flavors, so don’t hesitate to try various combinations. - Temperature Control:
Maintain a consistent smoking temperature to achieve the desired smokiness without overcooking the cream cheese. - Pairing Possibilities:
Smoked cream cheese is a versatile delight—pair it with cured meats, fruit preserves, or honey for a gourmet experience.
Calorie Information
A typical 2-ounce (56g) serving of cream cheese contributes approximately 200 calories. The smoky infusion doesn’t significantly alter the calorie count, making this a flavorful yet relatively low-calorie treat.
How Long is Smoked Cream Cheese Good for
- Unopened Smoked Cream Cheese:
Unopened smoked cream cheese, stored in the refrigerator, can last several weeks beyond the “best by” or “use by” date. - Opened Smoked Cream Cheese:
Once opened, it’s recommended to consume smoked cream cheese within 1 to 2 weeks. Ensure proper refrigeration. - Storage Conditions:
Maintain a consistent cold temperature in the refrigerator, avoiding fluctuations to preserve quality. - Quality Check:
Regularly inspect for signs of spoilage, such as an off smell, unusual color, or visible mold. If in doubt, discard.
This smoked cream cheese recipe invites you to savor the fusion of simplicity and sophistication. With the right recipe, equipment, and expert tips, transform cream cheese into a smoky sensation that adds a touch of elegance to any occasion. Enjoy responsibly, and relish the extraordinary flavors in every creamy bite.
Image: IG Meatchurch
