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Cream cheese topped with hot honey and spices for a flavorful appetizer.

Cream Cheese with Hot Honey and Spices

A comforting and quick spread made of cream cheese, hot honey, and spices, perfect for crackers or toasted bread.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Essentials
  • 8 oz cream cheese Full-fat gives the richest texture; room temperature for easy mixing.
  • 1/4 cup hot honey Adds sweetness and gentle heat.
  • 1 tsp chili flakes Adjust to taste; crushed red pepper flakes are common.
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder Gives background savory warmth.
  • Salt to taste Start with a pinch and adjust as needed.
Optional Add-ons
  • Fresh herbs (optional) Parsley or chives for brightness and color.
  • Black pepper (optional) For a little bite.
  • Nuts (optional) Chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch.
Substitutions and Shortcuts
  • Cream cheese swap Use dairy-free cream cheese if needed.
  • 1/4 cup honey with 1/4 to 1/2 tsp chili flakes As a shortcut for hot honey.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Take the cream cheese out of the refrigerator about 30 minutes before mixing.
Combine Ingredients
  1. In a medium bowl, add softened cream cheese, hot honey, chili flakes, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt.
  2. Gently fold the ingredients together until mostly uniform.
Taste and Adjust
  1. Give it a gentle taste and adjust heat or sweetness as desired.
Finish and Serve
  1. Transfer to a serving dish and smooth the top. Garnish with nuts or herbs if desired.
  2. Serve at room temperature with gluten-free crackers, bread, or veggies.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4–5 days. Give a gentle stir before serving.