Ingredients
- Cream Cheese: 8 ounces (1 block), fully softened
- Hot Honey: 1/4 cup, plus 1 tablespoon for drizzling
- Unsalted Butter: 2 tablespoons
- Garlic: 2 cloves, finely minced
- Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon
- Fresh Thyme Leaves: 1 teaspoon
- Flaky Sea Salt: 1/4 teaspoon
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat the olive oil and butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic and fresh thyme leaves and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to brown the garlic.
- Step 2: While the garlic mixture is still warm, spread the softened cream cheese block onto a shallow serving dish or small skillet. Pour the warm garlic-butter mixture evenly over the top of the cream cheese.
- Step 3: Carefully drizzle the 1/4 cup of hot honey over the entire surface of the dip, allowing it to seep into the warm oil mixture.
- Step 4: Sprinkle the dip lightly with flaky sea salt and the reserved 1 tablespoon of hot honey (optional, for extra heat and shine).
- Step 5: Serve the Hot Honey Cream Cheese Dip immediately while still warm with crackers, toasted baguette slices, or fruit.
Notes
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, noting that the texture will firm up significantly once chilled.
- To restore the dip's original spreadable texture, gently reheat the refrigerated block in a microwave at 50% power for 30-45 seconds, or warm in a 250°F oven until the surface just begins to soften.
- For a fantastic contrast to the rich sweetness, serve this warm dip alongside crisp apple slices, tart green grapes, or tangy cornichons.
- Ensure you keep the heat low when sautéing the garlic and thyme, as browning the garlic will introduce a bitter note that ruins the delicate balance of the dip.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American