Description
Prep: 15 minutes, plus softening | Chill: 30–60 minutes | Cook: None | Servings: 8–10
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1½ cups freshly shredded sharp cheddar, about 6 ounces
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 jalapeños, finely diced, membranes removed for less heat
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon fresh lime juice
- Salt, only if needed
- 1 tablespoon chopped chives, optional
- Optional garnish: honey, jalapeño slices, cheddar, or red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Mix in the honey, mayonnaise, Dijon, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and lime juice.
- Fold in the cheddar, jalapeños, and optional chives. Start with less pepper if desired.
- Taste with a cracker and adjust the seasoning. Add salt only if needed.
- Cover and refrigerate for 30–60 minutes.
- Garnish just before serving. Let the serving portion soften briefly for easier spreading.
Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. Keep chilled between servings.
Estimated nutrition: Approximately 190–240 calories and 6–7 grams protein per portion, depending on whether the batch serves 10 or 8. Accompaniments and extra toppings are excluded.