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Blended cream cheese is flavored with a few ingredients, then topped with decadent warm sugared pecans in this French Quarter Cheese Spread. It's sweet and salty, and just an incredible tasting easy, festive appetizer for holiday gatherings!
Essential Ingredients and Selection Tips
- Cream Cheese: Softened to room temperature for easy blending
- Onion: Grated for smooth incorporation
- Garlic: Minced finely
- Unsalted Butter: For the pecan topping
- Brown Sugar: Adds sweetness to the topping
- Worcestershire Sauce: Provides depth of flavor
- Spicy Brown Mustard: Adds a tangy kick
- Pecans: Finely chopped and toasted
- Crackers: Sturdy varieties like water crackers or wheat thins for serving
Detailed Cooking Instructions
1. Prepare the Cream Cheese Base
- Step 1:
- In a small bowl, combine cream cheese, grated onion, and minced garlic
- Step 2:
- Transfer to a serving plate
- Step 3:
- Shape into a 6-inch disk
- Step 4:
- Set aside
2. Create the Pecan Topping
- Step 1:
- In a small saucepan, combine butter, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard
- Step 2:
- Cook and stir over medium heat until sugar is dissolved
- Step 3:
- Remove from heat
- Step 4:
- Stir in toasted pecans
3. Assemble and Serve
- Step 1:
- Allow pecan topping to cool slightly
- Step 2:
- Spoon topping over cream cheese disk
- Step 3:
- Serve with sturdy crackers
I was first introduced to this gem by my sister many years ago, at which point I had to force myself to slowly back away from the counter or I wouldn't have room for dinner. Crazy good. Even my kids, who aren't big cream cheese fans, begged me to let them "ruin their appetite."
Serving Suggestions
Serve with assorted crackers such as water crackers or wheat thins. The spread is best enjoyed while the pecan topping is still slightly warm, though it's delicious at room temperature as well.
Make-Ahead Strategy
This appetizer can be prepared in advance. Make the cream cheese base and prepare the pecan topping separately, then combine just before serving to maintain the best texture and flavor.
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Final Thoughts: This French Quarter Cheese Spread is a testament to how a few simple ingredients can create an absolutely irresistible appetizer. The combination of creamy cheese, sweet pecans, and tangy seasonings makes this a standout dish that's sure to be the star of any gathering.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make this cheese spread ahead of time?
- You can prepare the cream cheese base up to 2 days ahead and refrigerate. Make the warm pecan topping just before serving for the best contrast of temperatures and textures.
- → What kind of crackers work best with this spread?
- Sturdy, plain crackers like water crackers, butter crackers, or wheat crackers work best to let the flavors of the spread shine. Avoid heavily seasoned crackers that might compete with the flavors.
- → Can I use different nuts instead of pecans?
- While pecans are traditional for this recipe, you could substitute walnuts or almonds. Pecans offer the best buttery flavor and texture for the caramelized topping.
- → Is there a way to make this recipe less sweet?
- You can reduce the brown sugar to 2-3 tablespoons if you prefer a less sweet version. The Worcestershire sauce and mustard will still provide plenty of flavor.
- → Can I make this dairy-free?
- You can try using a dairy-free cream cheese alternative, but the texture and flavor may differ slightly from the original recipe.