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Homemade Veggie Cream Cheese Spread Recipe


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4.2 from 90 reviews

  • Author: Mary & Susan
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 1 cup of cream cheese spread, serving 6 as a spread or dip
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Homemade Veggie Cream Cheese Spread is a fresh and creamy blend of garden vegetables combined with smooth cream cheese. It’s quick and easy to prepare, making it a perfect spread for bagels, crackers, sandwiches, or as a flavorful dip. The mix of finely chopped carrots, bell peppers, and cucumber adds a refreshing crunch and vibrant color, while the seasoning balances the flavors beautifully.


Ingredients

Cream Cheese Base

  • 1 8-ounce package cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 1 tablespoon milk

Vegetables

  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped carrots
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped green bell pepper
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped cucumber, squeezed to remove excess liquid
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped red bell pepper

Seasoning

  • Pinch of salt
  • Pinch of black pepper


Instructions

  1. Prepare the cream cheese base: In a large mixing bowl, add the 8 ounces of softened cream cheese and 1 tablespoon of milk. Use a hand mixer or a spoon to stir until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy with no lumps.
  2. Add the vegetables: Gently fold in 2 tablespoons each of finely chopped carrots, green bell pepper, cucumber (well drained), and red bell pepper into the cream cheese base, ensuring even distribution without breaking down the veggies.
  3. Season: Sprinkle a pinch of salt and black pepper over the mixture, then stir to combine thoroughly, enhancing the overall flavor of the spread.
  4. Adjust texture (optional): If you desire a smoother texture with finer vegetable pieces, transfer the mixture to a food processor or blender and pulse a few times until the desired consistency is achieved without making it overly pureed.
  5. Chill and serve: Cover the spread and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and develop. Serve chilled on bagels, crackers, sandwiches, or as a dip alongside fresh vegetables.

Notes

  • Softening the cream cheese to room temperature ensures easier mixing and a creamier texture.
  • Removing excess moisture from cucumber prevents the spread from becoming watery.
  • Feel free to swap or add other finely chopped garden vegetables such as chives, celery, or radishes for extra flavor and texture.
  • For a dairy-free version, substitute cream cheese and milk with vegan alternatives.
  • This spread is best served within 3-4 days when kept refrigerated in an airtight container.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Spread
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American