Smoked Cream Cheese Recipe

Smoked Cream Cheese Recipe

Smoked cream cheese is a simple yet unforgettable appetizer that transforms a block of cream cheese into a smoky, flavorful showstopper. With BK'S Bar-Ba-Chew Rubs, this dish takes on two bold personalities that highlight the richness of the cream cheese in different but equally delicious ways. The Raspberry-Chipotle Rub layers in a sweet, tangy fruitiness with a subtle chipotle kick, creating a balance of smoky heat and berry brightness. On the other hand, the Hot Honey BBQ Rub delivers a sweet-heat barbecue punch, with honeyed notes that caramelize beautifully as the cream cheese smokes, locking in a bold, savory-sweet crust.

Whether served with crackers, crostini, pretzels, or fresh veggies, smoked cream cheese with BK'S Bar-Ba-Chew Rubs is a versatile dish that’s perfect for backyard barbecues, game-day spreads, or holiday gatherings. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s a crowd-pleasing appetizer that showcases the signature taste of BK'S Bar-Ba-Chew Rubs in every bite.

Ingredients:

2 blocks cream cheese

Olive Oil

Raspberry-Chipotle BBQ Rub (or any flavor of BK’S Bar-Ba-Chew Rubs)

Hot Honey BBQ Rub (or any flavor of BK’s Bar-Ba-Chew Rubs)

Honey

Crackers, chips, pretzels, or bread for dipping.

Equipment

Smoker or grill set up for indirect heat

Wood chunks or chips (fruitwood or pecan recommended)

Aluminum foil or small cast iron skillet

Directions

  1. Preheat Smoker—-Set smoker or grill to 180°F. Add wood chunks or chips for smoke flavor.

  2. Remove cream cheese from packaging and place on a piece of foil or in a small cast iron skillet.

  3. Score the top of the cream cheese in a crosshatch pattern with a knife to help the smoke and seasoning penetrate.

  4. Apply Binder—Lightly brush or drizzle olive oil over the cream cheese block, coating all sides evenly.

  5. Generously sprinkle BBQ rub over the cream cheese, covering all sides. Press gently so the rub adheres.

  6. Smoke—-Place the cream cheese in the smoker. Smoke at 180°F for 2 hours, or until the outside is darkened and slightly caramelized.

  7. Serve—-Remove from smoker and let rest for 5 minutes. Serve warm with crackers, chips, or bread.

Tips:

For extra flavor, drizzle honey or hot honey over the smoked cream cheese before serving.

Use a fruitwood like apple or cherry for a mild, sweet smoke, or hickory for a stronger flavor.

Can be prepared ahead of time and reheated gently before serving.