The initial time the concept of smoked cream cheese was brought to my attention, I couldn’t help but burst into a fit of laughter. The mental image that popped into my head resembled a chaotic scene, like throwing a giant marshmallow onto a scorching grill. However, my friend Wes assured me that not only was this idea feasible, but it also resulted in a heavenly taste. Intrigued yet skeptical, I ventured back to the esteemed Southern Living Test Kitchen to put this theory to the test.
Can Cream Cheese Be Cooked on a Smoker?
Remarkably, the answer is a resounding yes! Smokers work their magic by imparting a slow and low infusion of flavors into food. By closely monitoring the temperature and ensuring it does not exceed 250°F, your cream cheese will maintain its form while absorbing all the delightful nuances of smoky essence.
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Why Opt for Smoking Cream Cheese?
While the classic Southern pairing of cream cheese with pepper jelly holds a special place in our hearts, there’s something thrilling about exploring new culinary avenues. Southerners are renowned for their affinity towards smoky flavors in dishes like ribs and barbecue, so why not extend this love to cream cheese? It introduces an additional dimension of taste, enhancing the spreadability when served warm compared to its cold counterpart.
Is Smoked Cream Cheese Overwhelmingly Smoky?
Surprisingly, no. The smoky essence is robust and discernible, yet it doesn’t overpower the palate. This optimal balance is achieved by enveloping the cream cheese in a harmonious blend of herbs and spices. While our preferred recipe includes a homemade seasoning mix, you can also opt for your favorite store-bought barbecue rub.
Why (And How) Should You “Score” Smoked Cream Cheese?
The technique of scoring, involving the creation of shallow criss-cross patterns, facilitates the deeper penetration of flavors into food items. In this context, scoring allows the smoky essence to permeate the core of the cream cheese, rather than merely lingering on the surface. To score cream cheese, utilize a small knife to create shallow incisions (approximately 1/4-inch deep) on the top layer of the cream cheese.
Is Smoked Cream Cheese More Enjoyable Hot or Cold?
While smoked cream cheese can be savored hot or cold, our preference leans towards serving it warm due to its superior spreadability on crackers, crudités, or bread. Here’s a pro-tip: Smoke multiple blocks of cream cheese at once and refrigerate the leftovers. When cravings strike, reheat them swiftly in the microwave or at 250°F in the oven for a delectably warm and smoky snack in a jiffy!
Related: Explore 32 Scrumptious Recipes Utilizing a Block of Cream Cheese
Read the original article on Southern Living.
