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Smoked Cream Cheese

Smoked cream cheese is a show-stopping appetizer that turns a humble ingredient into something unforgettable, infused with deep, savory flavor.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 16 servings
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American BBQ
Calories: 105
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 1 block 8 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 1/2 teaspoon coarse sea salt for the exterior
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper for texture and bite
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder optional but recommended
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika optional for color and mild sweetness

Equipment

  • Smoker (offset, pellet, or electric) OR grill with indirect heat setup
  • Aluminum foil or small disposable aluminum pan
  • Meat thermometer
  • Wood pellets or smoking wood chips (hickory, oak, or fruitwood)
  • Heat-resistant gloves
  • Serving board or platter
  • Knife for spreading

Method
 

  1. Fire up your smoker to 225 degrees Fahrenheit and allow it to stabilize for 15 to 20 minutes.
  2. Unwrap the cream cheese block and place it on a small piece of aluminum foil or directly in a small disposable aluminum pan.
  3. Sprinkle the sea salt, black pepper, and any optional seasonings evenly over the top and sides of the cream cheese block.
  4. Place your preferred smoking wood (hickory, oak, apple, or cherry) into the smoker box or directly onto the coals.
  5. Position the foil-wrapped or pan-seated cream cheese on the smoker grate, ideally in a spot with indirect heat.
  6. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the cream cheese every 15 minutes without opening the smoker door unnecessarily.
  7. Continue smoking for 45 to 60 minutes, until the exterior develops a light golden color and the aroma is distinctly smoky.
  8. Carefully remove the cream cheese from the smoker using heat-resistant gloves and let it cool to room temperature for at least 15 minutes before serving.

Notes

Serve with water crackers, vegetables, or cured meats for a perfect appetizer.