Ingredients
- Cream Cheese: 8 oz block, softened
- Ritz Crackers: 1 sleeve (approx. 30 crackers)
- Dill Pickles: 1/2 cup, finely chopped (drained well)
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: 1/4 cup, finely shredded
- Fresh Dill Weed: 1 tablespoon, finely chopped
- Dill Pickle Juice: 2 tablespoons
- Garlic Powder: 1/2 teaspoon
- Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon
Instructions
- Step 1: Place the softened cream cheese, finely chopped dill pickles, shredded cheddar cheese, fresh dill weed, dill pickle juice, garlic powder, and black pepper into a medium mixing bowl.
- Step 2: Using a hand mixer or a sturdy spatula, beat or stir the ingredients thoroughly until the mixture is completely smooth, creamy, and all components are evenly distributed throughout the spread.
- Step 3: Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dill pickle cheese spread for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and ensures the mixture is firm enough for easy spreading.
- Step 4: Once chilled, retrieve the mixture and the Ritz crackers. Use a small knife or spoon to generously spread the dill pickle cheese mixture onto the flat side of each individual cracker.
- Step 5: Arrange the assembled Dill Pickle Cheese Ritz Bites on a serving platter. Serve immediately, or store them in the refrigerator until ready to present to prevent the crackers from becoming soft.
Notes
- For best texture, store the prepared dill pickle cheese mixture separately in an airtight container for up to three days, and only assemble the bites right before guests arrive.
- While the assembled bites must stay chilled until serving, allow the reserved spread to warm slightly at room temperature for 10 minutes if it feels too hard to spread easily out of the refrigerator.
- Enhance the appetizer tray by pairing these rich, sharp bites with fresh cucumber slices or small bread rounds for guests preferring a less buttery base than the Ritz crackers.
- Ensure the finely chopped dill pickles are thoroughly squeezed and drained before mixing; excess moisture is the enemy of a smooth, firm cream cheese spread.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American