Basil Cheese Spread
A rich and creamy herb-infused cheese spread combining cream cheese, goat cheese, butter, and pesto. Topped with toasted pine nuts and fresh basil, it offers a delightful mix of savory, nutty, and aromatic flavors. Perfect for spreading on bread, crackers, or serving as an appetizer for gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a food processor, blend cream cheese, goat cheese, and butter until smooth.
- Line a 1-quart souffle dish with damp cheesecloth, allowing the excess to hang over the sides.
- Spread about 1/4 of the cheese mixture in the souffle dish, followed by 1/3 of the pesto.
- Repeat with the remaining cheese and pesto, ending with a layer of cheese on top.
- Fold the ends of the cheesecloth over the top and smooth the surface with fingers.
- Chill for 3 hours or until firm.
- Unfold the cheesecloth. Press pine nuts around the sides of the spread and garnish with basil leaves.
- Refrigerate; cheese keeps for 7 to 10 days.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, allow the cream cheese and goat cheese to soften at room temperature before blending. If you don't have pine nuts, walnuts or pecans can be used as a substitute. To add more flavor, consider incorporating fresh herbs like chives or dill into the cheese mixture. This spread is perfect for entertaining or as part of Mediterranean recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This spread is best served with crackers, toasted baguette slices, or fresh vegetable sticks. It pairs beautifully with veggie dishes like Spiced Eggplant or a fresh salad. You can also serve it alongside a selection of cheeses and cured meats for a delightful appetizer platter.
Storage & Reheating
Store the Basil Cheese Spread in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for 7 to 10 days. If you want to extend its shelf life, consider freezing it in portions. To serve from the freezer, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before use.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Basil Cheese Spread contains roughly 709 calories, with 21g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 66g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (42% of the Daily Value), protein (41% of the Daily Value), and calcium (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 869mg per serving (38% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use low-fat cream cheese instead of regular?
Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese, but it may alter the texture and flavor slightly. The spread may be less creamy, so ensure it's well blended with the other ingredients for the best results.
How can I make this spread vegan?
To make a vegan version, substitute cream cheese and goat cheese with plant-based alternatives. Use vegan butter and ensure your pesto is dairy-free. This will create a deliciously creamy and herbaceous spread that everyone can enjoy.
What can I do if my cheese spread is too thick?
If the spread is too thick, try adding a tablespoon of olive oil or a bit of milk to loosen it up. Blend again until you achieve the desired consistency. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).