Smoky Cream Cheese with Bacon | YumAndJoy

Smoky Cream Cheese with Bacon

This Smoky Cream Cheese with Hot Honey and Bacon is a decadent, crowd-pleasing appetizer perfect for parties, BBQs, or game days. The rich, creamy texture of the smoked cream cheese pairs perfectly with the sweet heat of hot honey and the savory crunch of crispy bacon. It’s easy to make and guaranteed to impress your guests!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Bold and Unique Flavor: Smoky, sweet, spicy, and savory all in one bite.
  • Simple Yet Decadent: Minimal ingredients, but big on flavor and presentation.
  • Versatile: Perfect for parties, BBQs, or as a fun addition to a charcuterie board.
  • Easy to Make: Requires minimal prep and simple techniques.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • 1 (8-ounce) block cream cheese
  • 3-4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 2-3 tablespoons hot honey (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra smoky flavor)
  • Crackers, toasted baguette slices, or fresh vegetables for serving

Directions

  1. Prep the Cream Cheese:
    • Preheat your smoker or grill to 225°F.
    • If desired, score the top of the cream cheese with a knife to create a diamond pattern. This helps the flavors penetrate while smoking.
  2. Smoke the Cream Cheese:
    • Place the cream cheese on a piece of aluminum foil or in a small oven-safe dish.
    • Sprinkle with smoked paprika for an extra smoky kick.
    • Smoke the cream cheese for 1-2 hours, or until it’s softened and slightly golden on the outside.
  3. Cook the Bacon:
    • While the cream cheese is smoking, cook the bacon until crispy. Let it cool, then crumble it into small pieces.
  4. Assemble the Dish:
    • Once the cream cheese is done, transfer it to a serving dish.
    • Drizzle generously with hot honey and sprinkle the crumbled bacon on top.
  5. Serve:
    • Serve warm with crackers, toasted baguette slices, or fresh vegetables for dipping. Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 6-8 as an appetizer
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1-2 hours (smoking time)
  • Total Time: 1-2 hours 5 minutes

Variations

  • Spicier Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the cream cheese before smoking.
  • Herb-Infused: Mix fresh herbs like thyme, parsley, or chives into the cream cheese before smoking.
  • Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle toasted pecans or walnuts on top along with the bacon.
  • Sweet and Savory: Add a drizzle of maple syrup along with the hot honey for a sweeter flavor.
  • Grilled Option: If you don’t have a smoker, grill the cream cheese over indirect heat with wood chips for a smoky flavor.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

FAQs

1. Can I make this without a smoker?

Yes! You can bake the cream cheese in the oven at 225°F and sprinkle it with smoked paprika for a similar smoky flavor.

2. What is hot honey, and where can I find it?

Hot honey is honey infused with chili peppers for a sweet and spicy kick. It’s available at most grocery stores or can be made at home by heating honey with red pepper flakes.

3. Can I use turkey bacon or plant-based bacon?

Absolutely! Both options work well for this recipe.

4. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can smoke the cream cheese in advance and reheat it before adding the toppings.

5. What other toppings pair well with this dish?

Dried cranberries, fresh herbs, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze are excellent additions.

6. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Yes, low-fat cream cheese works, but the texture may be slightly less rich.

7. Can I skip the paprika?

Yes, the smoked flavor will still come from the smoker, but paprika adds an extra layer of flavor.

8. What’s the best way to cook bacon for this recipe?

Cook the bacon in a skillet, in the oven, or even on the grill for extra flavor.

9. Can I serve this cold?

This dish is best served warm to highlight the creaminess of the cheese and the flavors of the honey and bacon.

10. What drinks pair well with this appetizer?

A crisp white wine, an IPA, or a light whiskey cocktail pairs beautifully with the smoky and savory flavors.

Conclusion

Smoky Cream Cheese with Hot Honey and Bacon is an irresistible appetizer that’s perfect for any gathering. With its creamy texture, smoky flavor, and the sweet heat of hot honey, this dish is sure to be a hit. Simple to prepare and full of bold flavors, it’s a must-try for your next party or BBQ!

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Smoky Cream Cheese with Bacon

Smoky Cream Cheese with Bacon


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  • Author: asma
  • Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes (smoker) or 30 minutes (oven)
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This Smoky Cream Cheese with Hot Honey and Bacon is a decadent appetizer that combines smoky, creamy cheese with crispy bacon and a drizzle of sweet-spicy hot honey. Perfect for parties, BBQs, or any festive occasion!


Ingredients

Scale

Base:

  • 1 (8-ounce) block of cream cheese (cold)

Toppings:

  • 4 slices bacon (cooked crispy and crumbled)
  • 23 tbsp hot honey (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika

Optional Garnish:

  • Fresh chives (chopped)
  • Crackers, bread, or veggies for serving

Instructions

  1. Prepare the cream cheese:
    • Preheat your smoker or oven to 225°F (107°C).
    • Place the block of cream cheese on a sheet of aluminum foil or in a small oven-safe dish.
  2. Season the cream cheese:
    • Sprinkle the smoked paprika evenly over the cream cheese, covering all sides for a smoky flavor boost.
  3. Smoke the cream cheese:
    • Place the cream cheese in the smoker and smoke for 2 hours, or until slightly golden and softened. If using an oven, bake the cream cheese for about 20 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
  4. Cook the bacon:
    • While the cream cheese is smoking, cook the bacon until crispy. Crumble and set aside.
  5. Finish with toppings:
    • Remove the smoked cream cheese from the smoker. Drizzle with hot honey and sprinkle with crispy bacon crumbles. Garnish with chopped chives if desired.
  6. Serve:
    • Serve warm or at room temperature with crackers, bread, or veggies for dipping.

Notes

  • Hot honey substitute: Mix 3 tbsp honey with 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper or chili flakes to make homemade hot honey.
  • For a spicier kick, sprinkle additional chili flakes on top.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2 hours (smoker) or 20 minutes (oven)
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Smoked, Baked
  • Cuisine: American
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