Description
There’s something magical about a dip that can steal the show at any gathering, and this Hot Honey Cream Cheese Dip is exactly that kind of crowd-pleaser. The rich, tangy cream cheese provides a cool, creamy base that beautifully tempers the fiery kick and floral sweetness of the hot honey. It’s a flavor dance that happens right on your tongue—first sweet, then spicy, all smoothed over by that luxurious creaminess.
Ingredients
- 1 (8-ounce) block full-fat cream cheese, softened
- 1/3 cup hot honey (like Mike’s Hot Honey or homemade)
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika, plus more for garnish
- 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
- Optional toppings: chopped fresh chives, crispy bacon bits, crushed red pepper flakes, flaky sea salt
Instructions
- Soften the Cream Cheese: Ensure your cream cheese is completely softened at room temperature. This is the most crucial step for achieving a perfectly smooth and creamy dip, not a lumpy one. This should take about 30-60 minutes on the counter.
- Combine the Base: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, fresh lemon juice, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and salt. Use a hand mixer or a sturdy whisk to beat everything together until it is completely smooth and well-combined.
- Spread and Swirl: Transfer the creamy base to a shallow serving bowl or plate. Use the back of a spoon to create swoops and swirls on the surface. This textured surface will help the hot honey pool beautifully.
- Drizzle and Garnish: Generously drizzle the hot honey all over the creamy base. Don’t be shy! Sprinkle with an extra pinch of smoked paprika, some chopped fresh chives, and any other desired toppings like bacon or red pepper flakes.
Notes
For the best flavor, let the dip sit for about 15-20 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. You can prepare the entire dip (without the final honey drizzle and garnish) up to 24 hours in advance. Keep it covered in the fridge, then let it sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes before adding the honey and serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tbsp
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 25mg