RECIPE ALERT: Smoked Cream Cheese with Hot Honey and Jalapenos

Here’s a perfectly festive 4th of July recipe for a show-stopping, easy appetizer your guests will love!

Smoked Cream Cheese with Hot Honey and Jalapeños

Ingredients

• 1 block (8 oz) cream cheese

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced

• 2–3 tablespoons hot honey (store-bought or homemade)

• Crackers or toasted baguette slices, for serving

• Optional: chopped fresh chives or parsley for garnish

Instructions

Place the cream cheese block on a sheet of foil or a small grill-safe tray. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Gently rub the seasoning all over the top and sides.

Preheat your smoker to 225°F (or set up your grill for indirect heat and add wood chips). Place the cream cheese on the smoker, and smoke for about 2 hours, or until it’s soft and lightly golden with a rich smoky flavor.

Carefully remove the smoked cream cheese and place it on a serving platter. Drizzle generously with hot honey, and top with sliced jalapeños.

Sprinkle chopped chives or parsley if desired. Serve warm with crackers or toasted baguette slices.

Pro Tips

• For extra heat, add crushed red pepper flakes to the honey.

• Want even more smoky depth? Add a pinch of chipotle powder to your spice mix.

Perfect for a backyard barbecue, fireworks party, or summer potluck!