Homemade Garlic and Herb Cream Cheese Recipe

When it comes to making a flavorful and versatile spread, garlic and herb cream cheese is a must-try. With its rich, creamy texture and fragrant blend of garlic and fresh herbs, this spread can elevate your morning bagels, sandwiches, or even serve as a delicious dip for appetizers. The best part? You can make this homemade garlic and herb cream cheese in just a few simple steps using ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic and Herb Cream Cheese Recipe

If you love cream cheese but want to give it a flavorful twist, this garlic and herb version is the perfect solution. The combination of fresh garlic, parsley, chives, and dill brings out a bold flavor that pairs well with a variety of dishes. Whether you’re using it as a spread for breakfast or serving it at a party, this homemade garlic and herb cream cheese is sure to impress your guests.

This recipe is not only incredibly easy to make but also highly customizable. You can adjust the flavor intensity by adding more or less garlic and herbs according to your taste. It's a healthier option compared to store-bought versions, as you can control the freshness and quality of the ingredients used.

Ingredients for Garlic and Herb Cream Cheese

• 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
• 1 tbsp fresh chives (chopped)
• 1 tbsp fresh dill (chopped)
• 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for extra creaminess)
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Optional: lemon zest or a squeeze of lemon juice for extra brightness

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're missing any of the fresh herbs, don't worry! You can substitute with dried herbs, but reduce the quantity to half, as dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor. For example, instead of 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley, you can use 1 tablespoon of dried parsley. Additionally, if you prefer a more subtle garlic flavor, use roasted garlic instead of raw minced garlic for a mellow, sweet taste.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Garlic and Herb Cream Cheese

1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and minced garlic. Use a fork or a hand mixer to blend them together until smooth.
2. Add the chopped parsley, chives, dill, salt, and black pepper to the cream cheese mixture. Continue to mix until all the herbs are evenly distributed throughout the cream cheese.
3. If you prefer a creamier texture, drizzle in the olive oil and mix until smooth.
4. For an extra pop of flavor, you can add lemon zest or a squeeze of lemon juice.
5. Once everything is well combined, transfer the garlic and herb cream cheese to a serving bowl or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
6. Allow the cream cheese to chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together. Serve it chilled or at room temperature for the best taste.

Cooking Times

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Chilling Time: 30 minutes (optional but recommended)
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Serving Suggestions

This homemade garlic and herb cream cheese is incredibly versatile. Here are some ideas on how to serve it:

• Bagels: Spread it on your favorite bagels for a savory breakfast option.
• Sandwiches: Use it as a spread for sandwiches or wraps to add an extra layer of flavor.
• Dips: Serve it as a dip with crackers, toasted bread, or fresh veggies like cucumber, carrots, and bell peppers.
• Appetizers: This cream cheese spread is perfect for spreading on crostini or serving with smoked salmon for a sophisticated appetizer.
• Snacks: Pair it with pretzels or pita chips for an easy snack.

Nutritional Information

This garlic and herb cream cheese recipe yields about 8 servings. Each serving (roughly 2 tablespoons) contains:

• Calories: 90
• Fat: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Protein: 2g
• Sodium: 100mg

Please note that these nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store your garlic and herb cream cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 5 days. Be sure to stir it before serving again to redistribute the herbs and garlic evenly throughout the spread.

If you prefer the cream cheese to be soft, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This will make it easier to spread and enhance its flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make garlic and herb cream cheese ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, making it ahead of time can enhance the flavors as the garlic and herbs meld together with the cream cheese. Just be sure to store it in the fridge and give it a good stir before serving.

Can I freeze garlic and herb cream cheese?

While it is possible to freeze cream cheese, the texture may change slightly once thawed, becoming a bit grainier. However, if you're planning to use it in cooking or baking, freezing should be fine. For the best results, store it in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before using.

How can I make this recipe vegan?

You can easily make a vegan version of this garlic and herb cream cheese by using a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. Most grocery stores carry plant-based cream cheese made from ingredients like almond, cashew, or soy, which work well in this recipe.

Conclusion

This garlic and herb cream cheese is a simple yet flavorful spread that will become a staple in your kitchen. With its rich creaminess, punch of garlic, and fresh herbs, it’s perfect for spreading on bagels, sandwiches, or using as a dip for your favorite snacks. The best part is that you can customize it to suit your taste, whether you like it extra garlicky or prefer a milder herb flavor. Try it out today and let us know how you enjoy it!

Don't forget to leave a comment or share your version of this garlic and herb cream cheese recipe below. We’d love to hear from you and see how you made this recipe your own!