Garlic Cream Cheese Spread

Featured in: Mild & Hot Salsas

This creamy blend features softened cream cheese combined with sweet, mellow roasted garlic to produce a luscious, spreadable mixture. Garlic cloves are roasted until caramelized, then mashed and blended with sour cream and seasoning to create a smooth, fluffy texture. Fresh chives add a subtle fresh note when folded in. Perfect chilled or served immediately, this spread complements breads, crackers, and vegetables with ease.

Updated on Sun, 15 Feb 2026 14:06:18 GMT
Creamy roasted garlic cream cheese spread with fresh chives, perfect for bagels or crackers.  Save
Creamy roasted garlic cream cheese spread with fresh chives, perfect for bagels or crackers. | pepperplume.com

This Garlic Cream Cheese Spread is a luscious, whipped creation infused with sweet, mellow roasted garlic. It is the perfect accompaniment for bagels, toast, crackers, or crudités, offering a rich and creamy texture that elevates any snack or meal.

Creamy roasted garlic cream cheese spread with fresh chives, perfect for bagels or crackers.  Save
Creamy roasted garlic cream cheese spread with fresh chives, perfect for bagels or crackers. | pepperplume.com

The secret to this spread's deep flavor lies in the roasting process. By slowly cooking the garlic in the oven, it transforms from sharp and pungent to sweet and caramelized, which then blends seamlessly into the dairy base.

Ingredients

  • 225 g (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
  • 60 g (¼ cup) sour cream
  • 1 large head garlic
  • 2 tbsp fresh chives, finely chopped (optional)
  • ½ tsp salt, or to taste
  • ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tsp olive oil
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Instructions

Step 1
Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
Step 2
Slice the top off the head of garlic to expose the cloves. Drizzle with olive oil and wrap in foil. Roast for 35–40 minutes until cloves are soft and caramelized. Let cool slightly.
Step 3
Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves from their skins into a mixing bowl. Mash with a fork until smooth.
Step 4
Add softened cream cheese, sour cream, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Whip with a hand mixer (or vigorously by hand) until smooth, light, and fluffy.
Step 5
Fold in chives, if using. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired.
Step 6
Transfer to a serving bowl. Chill for at least 30 minutes for flavors to meld, or serve immediately.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

Ensure that the cream cheese is completely softened at room temperature before you begin whipping. Chilling the finished spread for at least 30 minutes is highly recommended as it allows the roasted garlic and chive flavors to fully develop.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For a tangier flavor profile, you can substitute the sour cream with Greek yogurt. Additionally, fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or basil can be added or substituted for the chives for a unique variation.

Serviervorschläge

This spread is delicious as a sandwich base or as a flavorful dip for fresh vegetable platters. For an elegant touch, try pairing it with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc.

Silky whipped cream cheese blended with caramelized roasted garlic, ideal for crudités or toast.  Save
Silky whipped cream cheese blended with caramelized roasted garlic, ideal for crudités or toast. | pepperplume.com

Whether you are preparing a quick breakfast or setting out an appetizer for guests, this roasted garlic spread is sure to impress with its smooth, light, and fluffy consistency. Enjoy your homemade creation!

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Recipe FAQ

How is the garlic prepared for this spread?

The whole garlic head is roasted until the cloves become soft and caramelized, bringing out a sweet, mellow flavor that blends smoothly into the cheese mixture.

Can I substitute sour cream with another ingredient?

Yes, Greek yogurt works well as a tangy alternative to sour cream, keeping a creamy texture.

What is the best way to serve this spread?

It pairs wonderfully with bagels, toast, crackers, or fresh vegetables like crudités, and can also enhance sandwiches.

Is it possible to add fresh herbs to the spread?

Fresh herbs such as parsley, dill, or basil may be included to add additional layers of flavor.

How long should the spread be chilled before serving?

Chilling for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld, but it can also be enjoyed immediately after preparation.

Garlic Cream Cheese Spread

Whipped cream cheese with roasted garlic creates a smooth, flavorful spread ideal for snacks.

Prep duration
10 min
Cook duration
40 min
Complete duration
50 min
Created by Isabella Flores


Complexity Easy

Heritage American

Output 8 Portions

Diet considerations Meat-free, No gluten, Low-Carbohydrate

Components

Dairy

01 8 oz cream cheese, softened
02 1/4 cup sour cream

Garlic

01 1 large head garlic

Seasonings & Add-ins

01 2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped
02 1/2 teaspoon salt
03 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

For Roasting Garlic

01 1 teaspoon olive oil

Directions

Phase 01

Prepare and Roast Garlic: Preheat oven to 400°F. Slice the top off the garlic head to expose cloves. Drizzle with olive oil and wrap tightly in aluminum foil. Roast for 35-40 minutes until cloves are soft and caramelized. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.

Phase 02

Extract and Mash Roasted Garlic: Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves from their skins into a mixing bowl. Mash with a fork until completely smooth.

Phase 03

Combine and Whip Base Ingredients: Add softened cream cheese, sour cream, salt, and black pepper to the bowl with mashed garlic. Whip with a hand mixer or vigorously by hand until the mixture is smooth, light, and fluffy.

Phase 04

Incorporate Fresh Herbs: Fold in fresh chives. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed with additional salt and pepper.

Phase 05

Chill and Serve: Transfer spread to a serving bowl. Chill for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld, or serve immediately if preferred.

Necessary tools

  • Oven
  • Mixing bowl
  • Hand mixer or whisk
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Aluminum foil

Allergy details

Review each ingredient for potential allergens and seek professional health advice if you're uncertain.
  • Contains milk dairy products
  • Verify ingredient labels for potential cross-contamination if serving to individuals with gluten sensitivity

Nutrient breakdown (per portion)

These values are estimates only and shouldn't replace professional medical guidance.
  • Energy: 95
  • Fats: 8 g
  • Carbohydrates: 3 g
  • Proteins: 2 g