This homemade herb and garlic cream cheese is rich, creamy, and infused with fresh aromatic flavors. It’s perfect for spreading on bagels, toast, crackers, or adding to appetizers. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, this spread brings gourmet flavor straight to your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is wonderfully simple yet incredibly flavorful. Fresh garlic and dried herbs blend seamlessly into smooth cream cheese, creating a spread that tastes far superior to anything store-bought. It’s budget-friendly, requires no special equipment besides a whisk or mixer, and works beautifully for breakfast, snacks, or entertaining. The spread chills to allow flavors to deepen, making it even better over time.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
3 cloves fresh garlic, pressed or very finely minced
1 teaspoon dried or fresh chopped thyme
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
Salt and pepper to taste (optional)
Directions
Add the softened cream cheese to a mixing bowl.
Add the minced or pressed garlic, thyme, basil, parsley, and a light seasoning of salt and pepper if desired.
Whip the mixture by hand using a whisk or spatula, or blend with a hand mixer on low speed until fully combined and smooth.
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
Serve chilled on toast, bagels, crackers, or add it to your favorite appetizers.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 8 servings.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Chill time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Variations
Swap dried herbs for fresh herbs for a brighter, more vibrant flavor.
Add finely chopped chives or green onions for a mild onion taste.
Stir in a pinch of chili flakes for a subtle heat.
Mix in finely diced roasted peppers for added sweetness and color.
Add a squeeze of lemon juice for a lightly tangy finish.
Storage/Reheating
Store the herb and garlic cream cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Do not freeze, as the texture of cream cheese becomes grainy once thawed.
No reheating is required; simply bring it to room temperature for a few minutes before serving for easier spreading.
FAQs
How long does homemade herb and garlic cream cheese last?
It keeps well for up to 2 weeks in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Can I use low-fat or fat-free cream cheese?
Yes, the recipe works with low-fat or fat-free cream cheese, though the texture will be less rich.
Can I add fresh herbs instead of dried?
Absolutely. Fresh herbs add incredible aroma and brightness.
How do I prevent the garlic flavor from becoming too strong?
Press or mince the garlic very finely and use only fresh cloves. Letting the spread chill tones down any sharpness.
Can I make this spread ahead of time?
Yes, it’s even better when made ahead because the flavors deepen as it rests.
Can I use a food processor?
Yes, but mix gently to avoid over-whipping, which can make the texture too loose.
What can I serve this cream cheese with?
Bagels, toast, crackers, wraps, sandwiches, or as a base for appetizers.
Can I make this dairy-free?
You can use dairy-free cream cheese alternatives, though the flavor and texture may vary.
Can I freeze this cream cheese?
Freezing is not recommended as it alters the texture.
How can I make the spread smoother?
Let the cream cheese soften at room temperature before mixing for the smoothest result.
Conclusion
This Easy Homemade Herb and Garlic Cream Cheese delivers creamy richness and savory flavor with minimal effort. Whether you use it for breakfast, snacks, or entertaining, it offers a homemade touch that’s far more delicious than store-bought varieties. Simple ingredients, quick preparation, and versatile uses make this recipe a must-have in your kitchen rotation.
This easy homemade herb and garlic cream cheese is rich, creamy, and packed with aromatic flavor from fresh garlic and herbs. Perfect for spreading on bagels, crackers, toast, or as a flavorful base for appetizers.
