Description
This Herb Cream Cheese Dip is a smooth, creamy, and flavorful appetizer perfect for parties or casual gatherings. Made with fresh herbs, lemon zest, and a touch of heat from red pepper flakes, it offers a bright and tangy taste. The dip is whipped to silky perfection, then strained overnight for a luxurious texture ideal for dipping crackers and fresh vegetables.
Ingredients
Scale
Dip Ingredients
- 12 oz. cream cheese (room temperature, about 1½ bricks)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 tbsp minced green onions (scallions)
- 2 tbsp minced fresh dill
- 1 tbsp minced fresh chives
- 1 tbsp lemon zest (from 1 lemon)
- 1 tbsp freshly-squeezed lemon juice (from ½ lemon, not bottled)
- 1 tsp fine sea salt (or kosher salt)
- ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
- â…› tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Beat the cream cheese: Using a hand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy with no lumps remaining.
- Incorporate heavy cream and herbs: Set the mixer to low speed and slowly pour in the heavy cream, whisking until fully combined. Then add the minced green onions, dill, chives, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens and firms up slightly.
- Strain the dip: Line a 6-inch mesh strainer or sieve with two layers of cheesecloth. Pour the cream cheese mixture into the cheesecloth-lined strainer, pressing gently to smooth the surface. Fold excess cheesecloth over the top, cover with plastic wrap, and place the setup over a small bowl to catch any liquid draining through. Refrigerate overnight or up to three days to achieve a dense, creamy consistency.
- Prepare to serve: When ready to serve, carefully invert the cream cheese dip onto a serving plate, discarding any liquid collected in the bowl beneath.
- Serve: Enjoy the herb cream cheese dip with crackers, fresh vegetables, or your preferred dippers.
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easier beating and a smoother dip.
- Do not substitute bottled lemon juice; freshly squeezed juice adds brightness and freshness.
- The optional crushed red pepper flakes add a subtle heat—adjust to taste or omit if preferred.
- Allowing the dip to strain overnight is essential for achieving the perfect creamy texture and concentrated flavor.
- Store leftover dip covered in the refrigerator and consume within 3 days for best quality.
