Hot Honey Cream Cheese Dip is the ultimate combination of creamy, spicy, and sweet flavors, perfect for any occasion. This quick and easy dip pairs beautifully with crackers, bread, or even fresh veggies, making it a must-have appetizer for parties, game days, or casual get-togethers.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Unique Flavor Combination: The spicy kick of hot honey balanced with creamy cheese is irresistible.
- Versatile: Pairs well with both savory and slightly sweet dippers.
- Quick and Easy: Takes only minutes to prepare with minimal ingredients.
- Crowd-Pleaser: A guaranteed hit at any gathering.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Cream cheese, softened
- Sour cream
- Hot honey (store-bought or homemade)
- Garlic powder
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh herbs (like parsley or chives, optional, for garnish)
Directions
- Prepare the Base:
- In a medium mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sour cream together until smooth and fluffy.
- Add the Flavor:
- Mix in hot honey, garlic powder, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Adjust the amount of hot honey based on your preferred sweetness and heat level.
- Assemble the Dip:
- Transfer the mixture to a serving dish. Drizzle additional hot honey over the top and sprinkle with fresh herbs or more red pepper flakes if desired.
- Serve:
- Pair with crackers, sliced baguette, pretzels, or fresh vegetables, and serve immediately.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6-8
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
Variations
- Cheese Blend: Add shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan for extra depth of flavor.
- Baked Version: Bake the dip in an oven-safe dish at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes until bubbly and warm.
- Spicy Kick: Increase the heat by adding a dash of cayenne pepper or more crushed red pepper flakes.
- Nutty Twist: Top with toasted pecans or walnuts for added crunch.
- Herbaceous Flavor: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a more savory profile.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Serve cold or gently reheat in the microwave or oven. Stir before serving if reheated.
FAQs
What is hot honey?
Hot honey is a sweet and spicy condiment made by infusing honey with chili peppers. It’s available pre-made or can be easily made at home.
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, prepare it up to a day in advance and store in the refrigerator. Add the final drizzle of hot honey just before serving.
Is this dip served warm or cold?
It’s delicious both ways! Serve it chilled for a refreshing appetizer or warm for a cozy, comforting dip.
Can I use a different type of honey?
Regular honey works, but adding chili flakes or hot sauce can mimic the heat of hot honey.
What dippers work best with this dip?
Crackers, pita chips, pretzels, sliced baguette, apple slices, or carrot sticks pair wonderfully.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, use dairy-free cream cheese and sour cream alternatives to accommodate dietary needs.
How do I adjust the heat level?
Increase or decrease the amount of hot honey or crushed red pepper flakes to suit your spice tolerance.
Can I bake this dip?
Yes, baking creates a warm, melty texture. Top with shredded cheese before baking for extra indulgence.
Is this dip gluten-free?
The dip itself is gluten-free, but ensure your dippers are gluten-free as well.
Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?
Absolutely! Simply double the ingredients and use a larger serving dish.
Conclusion
Hot Honey Cream Cheese Dip is the perfect blend of sweet, spicy, and creamy that will elevate any snack table. Quick to make and bursting with flavor, it’s a versatile appetizer that’s sure to impress guests. Try it for your next gathering and watch it disappear in minutes!
Print
Hot Honey Cream Cheese Dip
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Hot Honey Cream Cheese Dip is creamy, sweet, spicy, and utterly addictive! Perfect as an appetizer for parties or as a unique addition to a game-day spread, it pairs beautifully with crackers, veggies, or toasted bread.
Ingredients
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) hot honey (store-bought or homemade, see notes)
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Additional drizzle of hot honey
- Crushed red pepper flakes
- Fresh chives or parsley, chopped
For Serving:
- Crackers, tortilla chips, sliced baguette, or fresh veggies
Instructions
1. Preheat and Prepare the Dish:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a small baking dish or pie pan lightly with oil or nonstick spray.
2. Mix the Dip Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, combine the cream cheese, hot honey, sour cream, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Beat with a hand mixer or stir vigorously until smooth and creamy.
3. Bake the Dip:
- Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the edges are bubbly and the top is slightly golden.
4. Garnish and Serve:
- Remove from the oven and drizzle with additional hot honey. Sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes and fresh chives or parsley. Serve warm with your choice of dippers.
Notes
- Homemade Hot Honey: Combine 1/4 cup (60 ml) honey with 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes in a small saucepan. Warm over low heat for 2–3 minutes. Strain out the pepper flakes if desired.
- For a smoky twist, add 1/2 teaspoon liquid smoke or swap smoked paprika for regular paprika.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.