Cowboy Cream Cheese Spread Recipe

Introduction

Cowboy Cream Cheese is a flavorful, easy-to-make spread that adds a spicy, tangy kick to your appetizers and snacks. With a blend of herbs, spices, and tangy mustard, it’s perfect for crackers, veggies, or sandwiches.

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

1. 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.
2. Step 2: Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly combined and the mixture is smooth and creamy. You can also use a food processor for quicker blending.
3. Step 3: Transfer the cowboy cream cheese into an airtight container.
4. Step 4: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before using to allow the flavors to blend.

Tips & Variations

• For a fresher herb flavor, substitute dried herbs with fresh ones like chives, parsley, and thyme, using about three times the amount.
• Adjust the cayenne pepper to control the spiciness to your preference.
• Serve with crackers, sliced vegetables, or use as a sandwich spread for added zest.
• Mix in some finely chopped jalapeños for an extra spicy kick.

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 for easier spreading.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use low-fat cream cheese for this recipe?

Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese, but the texture might be less creamy and the flavor slightly milder compared to full-fat cream cheese.

How long should I refrigerate the spread before serving?

Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together, but longer chilling up to a few hours will enhance the taste even more.

Cowboy Cream Cheese Spread Recipe

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Cowboy Cream Cheese is a flavorful, creamy spread made by blending softened cream cheese with a medley of spices and herbs like Dijon mustard, chives, parsley, thyme, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Perfect as a savory dip, sandwich spread, or appetizer, this easy no-cook recipe combines smoky, tangy, and slightly spicy notes for a deliciously bold taste.

• Author: Emma
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes (including refrigeration)
• Yield: Approximately 1 cup (8 servings) 1x
• Category: Spread/Dip
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

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

1. Combine Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, add the softened cream cheese, Dijon mustard, dried chives, dried parsley, dried thyme, garlic powder, lemon juice, paprika, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
2. Mix Thoroughly: Stir all the ingredients together vigorously until the mixture is fully combined, smooth, and creamy. For a quicker and more uniform texture, you can use a food processor to blend all ingredients evenly.
3. Transfer to Container: Spoon the blended cowboy cream cheese into an airtight container to preserve freshness and flavor.
4. Refrigerate: Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and develop, enhancing the taste before serving.

Notes

• Use softened cream cheese at room temperature to ensure easy blending and smooth texture.
• The lemon juice adds freshness and balances the richness of cream cheese.
• You can adjust the cayenne pepper amount to control the level of spiciness according to taste.
• Refrigerate leftovers tightly covered and consume within one week for best quality.
• This spread pairs well with crackers, toasted bread, raw veggies, or can be used as a sandwich spread.

Keywords: cowboy cream cheese, cream cheese spread, spicy cream cheese dip, no-cook spread, appetizer, cream cheese recipe