A Perfect Blend of Cream Cheese and Nuts
There are certain flavor combinations that, while simple, achieve perfect harmony. The marriage of cream cheese nut, honey, and nuts exemplifies this perfection. This recipe, inspired by Trader Joe’s popular version, elevates a simple spread to gourmet status that you’ll want to prepare again and again.
What makes this nut cream cheese recipe truly special is its adaptability to your preferences. For instance, using orange blossom honey from a local farmers’ market can completely transform the tasting experience. The delicate fragrance and floral notes of this honey pair perfectly with the creamy richness of the cream cheese and the crunch of the nuts.
For those with a sweeter tooth, adding a small amount of granulated sugar can satisfy the most sugar-loving palates. And if you want to intensify the nut flavor, toasting them beforehand makes all the difference—a small extra effort that’s well worth it.
Table of Contents
Quick Preparation for an Impressive Cream Cheese Nut Spread
One of this recipe’s major assets is its simplicity and quick preparation. In just 15 minutes, you’ll have a spread worthy of the finest tables. Perfect for impromptu appetizers or special occasions, this cream cheese transforms any ordinary cracker into a gourmet bite.
Though simple, this recipe offers a complex taste experience. The cream cheese provides a rich, velvety base, the honey adds sweet and fragrant notes, while the nuts complete everything with their crunchy texture and toasted flavor. It’s this combination of textures and flavors that makes this dish a success with everyone who tastes it.
Ingredients and Measurements
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Walnuts | 10 halves | Can substitute with pecans |
| Cream cheese | 8 ounces (225g) | Philadelphia® type, softened |
| Orange blossom honey | ¼ cup (85g) | Local honey preferred |
| Granulated sugar (optional) | 1 teaspoon | For extra sweetness |
How to Prepare Your Cream Cheese nut
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for perfectly toasted nuts that will release all their aromas.
- Arrange the nut halves on a baking sheet, spacing them slightly to allow for even cooking. Place them in the oven for about 10 minutes, until they give off a delicious aroma and take on a slightly darker hue. Keep a watchful eye on the cooking as nuts can quickly go from perfectly toasted to burnt.
- Once toasted, immediately transfer the nuts to a plate to stop the cooking process and let them cool completely. This cooling is essential before moving on to the next step.
- When the nuts are completely cool, place them in a resealable plastic bag and roughly crush them using a rolling pin. The goal isn’t to obtain a fine powder but rather medium-sized pieces that will bring crunchiness to your preparation.
- In a food processor, combine the previously softened cream cheese, orange blossom honey, and crushed nuts. Mix everything until you achieve a creamy and homogeneous consistency, while retaining some nut pieces for texture.
- Transfer the preparation to a nice serving bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to develop well.
Tips and Variations for Your Cream Cheese Nut Creation
This cream cheese is traditionally enjoyed on crackers or slices of fresh bread, but don’t limit yourself to these classic options. It can also serve as a topping for muffins or bagels at breakfast, or be incorporated into a fruit salad for a light dessert.
For a more festive version, you can add a teaspoon of ground cinnamon or a pinch of grated nutmeg. These sweet spices perfectly complement the existing flavors and add an additional dimension to the aromatic profile.
As our cooking note suggests, you can also mix this cream cheese with a tub of Cool Whip whipped topping to obtain a light and airy spread, perfect between two layers of a sponge cake or as a topping for a simplified cheesecake.
Nutritional Information for Nut Cream Cheese
Per serving (approximately 2 tablespoons):
- Calories: 195
- Fats: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Proteins: 3g
These values are calculated based on a 2,000 calorie per day diet. Despite its richness, this cream cheese can be integrated into a balanced diet when consumed in moderation.
Our Community’s Opinion on This Cream Cheese Nut Recipe
Several members have shared their own variations, such as using different types of nuts (pecans or almonds) or specific honeys (lavender, chestnut). These testimonials confirm the versatility of this basic recipe.
Whether you’re looking for a quick option for an unexpected appetizer or a sweet-savory touch to complete your cheese platter, this honey nut cream cheese won’t fail to meet your expectations. Its simple and quick preparation makes it a must-have in your culinary repertoire.
From breakfast to dessert, this versatile cream cheese nut spread can elevate simple dishes to memorable ones. The contrast between the smooth cream cheese and crunchy nuts creates a textural experience that keeps people coming back for more. Try it today and discover why our community gives it perfect ratings!
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