Description
A creamy, flavorful homemade cheese spread made with a blend of cheddar, pepper jack, and cream cheese, smoothly blended with half and half and seasoned with kosher salt and paprika. Perfect for serving with crackers and vegetables as a delicious appetizer or snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheeses
- 8 oz. shredded cheddar cheese (~2 cups)
- 4 oz. shredded pepper jack cheese (~1 cup)
- 2 oz. cream cheese
Liquids & Seasonings
- ½ cup half and half
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients: Gather all cheeses (cheddar, pepper jack, and cream cheese) along with the kosher salt and paprika to have them ready for blending.
- Blend cheeses and seasonings: Place all cheeses and the seasonings into a food processor or blender equipped with a mini tamper. Blend for about 1 minute to begin combining the ingredients well.
- Scrape sides: Remove the lid and use a spatula to scrape down the sides of the processor or blender to ensure all cheese is blended evenly.
- Add half and half and blend again: Pour the half and half into the cheese mixture, then blend for an additional 1-2 minutes or until the cheese spread reaches a completely smooth and creamy consistency.
- Chill the spread: Transfer the cheese mixture into a bowl, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld and the spread firm up slightly.
- Serve: Present the chilled cheese spread with your favorite crackers and fresh vegetables for a tasty snack or appetizer.
Notes
- The cheese spread can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce before blending.
- Feel free to substitute half and half with whole milk for a lighter version, but the texture may be less creamy.
- This recipe can be doubled easily for larger gatherings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: cheese spread, homemade cheese dip, cheddar cheese, pepper jack cheese, cream cheese spread, appetizer, snack, cheese dip recipe
