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How to make smoked cream cheese
Andrea

How to make smoked cream cheese

Smoked Cream Cheese: Smoked cream cheese is a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer that adds a smoky flavor to the creamy texture of the cheese. It's perfect for spreading on crackers or bread and can be customized with various seasonings.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Servings: 8
Course: Appetizer, Side Dish
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 block (8 ounces) cream cheese
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Wood chips for smoking (such as hickory, applewood, or cherrywood)

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Cream Cheese. Remove the cream cheese from its packaging and place it on a piece of aluminum foil or a small baking tray.
  2. Drizzle the olive oil over the cream cheese, ensuring it is evenly coated.
  3.  Season the Cream Cheese. In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried herbs, salt, and pepper.
  4. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over all sides of the cream cheese, pressing it gently to adhere.
  5.  Prepare the Smoker. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C). If you don't have a smoker, you can use a grill set up for indirect smoking.
  6. Add your choice of wood chips to the smoker or grill according to the manufacturer's instructions.
  7. Smoke the Cream Cheese. Place the seasoned cream cheese directly on the smoker or grill grate.
  8. Smoke the cream cheese for 2 hours, maintaining a consistent temperature of 225°F (107°C).
  9.  Serve. Remove the smoked cream cheese from the smoker or grill and let it cool slightly
  10. Serve warm or at room temperature with crackers, bread, or fresh vegetables

Notes

If you don't have a smoker, try these methods!

Alternative Methods to Smoke Cream Cheese

1. Using a Grill with a Smoker Box

  • Setup: If you have a grill, you can create a smoker effect by using a smoker box or a foil pouch filled with wood chips.
  • Instructions:
    • Soak a handful of wood chips in water for about 30 minutes.
    • Drain the wood chips and place them in a smoker box or wrap them in aluminum foil, poking a few holes in the foil to allow smoke to escape.
    • Place the smoker box or foil pouch on one side of the grill and preheat the grill to medium-low heat.
    • Place the seasoned cream cheese on the opposite side of the grill, away from direct heat.
    • Close the grill lid and smoke for 1.5 to 2 hours, maintaining a temperature of around 225°F (107°C).

2. Using a Stovetop Smoker

  • Setup: A stovetop smoker is a great indoor option for smoking small items like cream cheese.
  • Instructions:
    • Line the bottom of the stovetop smoker with aluminum foil and add a small amount of wood chips.
    • Place the drip tray and rack over the wood chips.
    • Place the seasoned cream cheese on the rack.
    • Cover the smoker and place it over medium heat on the stovetop.
    • Smoke for about 30-45 minutes, checking occasionally to ensure the wood chips are producing smoke.

3. Using Liquid Smoke

  • Setup: Liquid smoke can be used to impart a smoky flavor without actual smoking.
  • Instructions:
    • Mix a few drops of liquid smoke into the olive oil before drizzling it over the cream cheese.
    • Proceed with the seasoning and baking steps as described in the original recipe.
    • Bake the cream cheese in a preheated oven at 225°F (107°C) for 1.5 to 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.

Additional Serving Suggestions for Smoked

Cream Cheese

  1. Charcuterie Board:
    • Serve the smoked cream cheese as part of a charcuterie board with a variety of cured meats, cheeses, olives, nuts, and fresh fruit.
  2. Bagels and Lox:
    • Spread the smoked cream cheese on bagels and top with smoked salmon, capers, thinly sliced red onions, and fresh dill.
  3. Stuffed Vegetables:
    • Use the smoked cream cheese as a filling for mini bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or cucumber cups.
  4. Sandwich Spread:
    • Spread the smoked cream cheese on sandwiches or wraps for an extra layer of flavor. It pairs well with turkey, ham, or roast beef.
  5. Baked Potatoes:
    • Dollop the smoked cream cheese onto baked potatoes and sprinkle with chives and bacon bits for a smoky twist on a classic side dish.
  6. Pasta Sauce:
    • Stir the smoked cream cheese into hot pasta for a creamy, smoky sauce. Add sautéed mushrooms and spinach for a complete meal.
  7. Crackers and Bread:
    • Serve with an assortment of crackers, crostini, or toasted baguette slices for an easy and delicious appetizer.
  8. Grilled Vegetables:
    • Use the smoked cream cheese as a dip for grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus.