French-Style Cream Cheese Spread
Description
This elegant French-style cream cheese spread is the ultimate crowd-pleaser for appetizers and parties. By blending soft cream cheese with butter, you create a luxuriously smooth texture that melts in your mouth. The addition of Worcestershire sauce adds a savory depth, while Herbes de Provence and fresh garlic provide aromatic, earthy notes that evoke the countryside of France. A touch of white wine vinegar brightens the richness, ensuring every bite is balanced and flavorful. It is incredibly simple to prepare, requiring just a few minutes of mixing before chilling. Serve it alongside an assortment of crisp crackers, sliced baguettes, or fresh vegetable sticks for a sophisticated yet easy starter that guests will love.Ingredients
Directions
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In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, softened butter (or margarine), minced garlic, snipped parsley, water, white wine vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, Herbes de Provence, and seasoning salt.
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Beat the mixture with an electric mixer or whisk until smooth, creamy, and fully blended.
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Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
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Before serving, transfer the spread to a serving dish and garnish with fresh thyme sprigs if desired.
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Serve chilled alongside assorted crackers or sliced baguette.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 12
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 167.4kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 17.6g28%
- Saturated Fat 7.8g39%
- Cholesterol 18.5mg7%
- Sodium 222.2mg10%
- Total Carbohydrate 1.1g1%
- Dietary Fiber 0.0g0%
- Sugars 0.4g
- Protein 1.4g3%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
**Herbes de Provence Mix:** If you do not have Herbes de Provence on hand, you can make your own by combining 1 tbsp dried marjoram, 1 tbsp dried thyme, 1 tbsp dried savory, 1 tsp dried basil, 1 tsp dried rosemary, 1/2 tsp dried sage, and 1/2 tsp dried fennel seed. Crush lightly before using to release the oils. Store any extra mix in an airtight container.
**Storage:** This spread can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Keep it covered to prevent it from absorbing other odors.
**Texture Tip:** Ensure the cream cheese and butter are fully softened at room temperature before mixing to achieve a lump-free, silky consistency.
