Creamy Cheese Spread (Printable version)

Luscious, velvety cheese blend with fresh herbs. Ideal for crackers, bread, or vegetable dips.

# What You'll Need:

→ Dairy

01 - 7 oz cream cheese, softened
02 - 3.5 oz mascarpone cheese
03 - 1.75 oz grated sharp cheddar cheese

→ Herbs & Flavorings

04 - 1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped
05 - 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
06 - 1 teaspoon lemon juice
07 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
08 - 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
09 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
10 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

# Directions:

01 - In a medium bowl, blend cream cheese, mascarpone, and cheddar until smooth and creamy using a spatula or hand mixer.
02 - Add chives, parsley, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until fully combined.
03 - Taste the mixture and modify seasoning as desired to balance flavors.
04 - Transfer to a serving bowl. Serve immediately or chill for 1 hour to firm up and intensify flavors.

# Expert advice:

01 -
  • It feels like a secret treat you want to share only with close friends who appreciate velvety, tangy flavors
  • The combination of fresh herbs and multiple cheeses creates a richness that’s both familiar and exciting at the same time
02 -
  • Never rush softening the cream cheese—if it’s too cold it will create lumps no mixer can save
  • Fresh herbs are the game changer; dried won’t give you the same vibrant flavor or texture
03 -
  • Use a hand mixer for the creamiest texture, but fold in herbs by hand to keep them vibrant
  • The secret is not to overdo the lemon juice; just enough to brighten but never sour