Company Cheese Spread

This “Company Cheese Spread” is a showstopper for a reason. It’s creamy, cheesy, savory, and the sweet & spicy pepper jelly topping takes it to another level. It’s perfect for when you have “company” over!

Here is the full recipe formatted with clear instructions.

Company Cheese Spread

This layered dip is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, with a creamy, savory base and a sweet, spicy, and crunchy topping.

Yields: One large spread, serving 10-12 as an appetizer
Prep time: 20 minutes
Chill time: 1 hour (minimum)

Ingredients

For the Cheese Spread Base:

• 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened to room temperature

• ½ cup mayonnaise

• ½ cup sour cream

• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese

• 3 green onions, thinly sliced (both green and white parts)

• 1 cup real bacon crumbles

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon black pepper

• 1 tablespoon garlic powder

For the Topping:

• ¾ cup pepper jelly or apricot jam (for serving)

• 1 cup pecans, chopped

• 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)

• ⅓ cup bacon crumbles (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Make the Cheese Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and sour cream. Using a hand mixer or a sturdy spatula, beat until smooth and well combined.

2. Add Remaining Base Ingredients: Stir in the shredded mozzarella, cheddar cheese, 3 sliced green onions, 1 cup of bacon crumbles, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix until all ingredients are evenly distributed.

3. Form the Spread: Lay a large piece of plastic wrap on your counter. Scoop the cheese mixture onto the plastic and use it to help you form the mixture into a smooth, round disk or a log shape. Wrap it tightly and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until firm. (This chilling step is crucial for the spread to hold its shape.)

4. Prepare for Serving: Up to an hour before serving, unwrap the cheese spread and place it on a serving plate.

5. Add the Toppings: Spread the pepper jelly or apricot jam evenly over the top of the cheese spread. Sprinkle the chopped pecans, the remaining 2 sliced green onions, and the ⅓ cup of bacon crumbles over the jelly.

6. Serve: Serve immediately with crackers, sliced baguette, pita chips, or vegetable sticks.

Chef’s Notes & Tips:

• Softened Cream Cheese is Key: Ensure your cream cheese is truly at room temperature to avoid a lumpy base. Take it out of the fridge 1-2 hours before you start.

• Shred Your Own Cheese: For the best texture and melt, buy blocks of mozzarella and cheddar and shred them yourself. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make the spread a bit grainy.

• Flavor Variations:

  • Spicier: Use a spicy pepper jelly or add a few dashes of hot sauce to the cheese base.

  • Different Nuts: Toasted walnuts or almonds work beautifully in place of pecans.

  • Herby Twist: Add 2 tablespoons of freshly chopped chives or parsley to the cheese base.

• Make-Ahead Instructions: This is the perfect make-ahead appetizer. You can prepare the cheese base (through step 3) up to 2 days in advance. Keep it wrapped in the fridge. Add the toppings just before serving to keep the pecans crunchy.

• Serving Vessel: For a different presentation, you can skip forming the disk and simply spread the cheese mixture into a pie plate or shallow serving dish, then add the toppings.

Enjoy this incredible, multi-textured spread that is sure to earn you rave reviews from your guests