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)
- 2–3 tbsp hot honey (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh chives (chopped)
- Crackers, bread, or veggies for serving
Instructions
- 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.
- Season the cream cheese:
- Sprinkle the smoked paprika evenly over the cream cheese, covering all sides for a smoky flavor boost.
- 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).
- Cook the bacon:
- While the cream cheese is smoking, cook the bacon until crispy. Crumble and set aside.
- 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.
- 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
