Philadelphia Cream Spread
A creamy, tangy cheese spread with green pepper and pimentos, perfect for appetizers or snacks, combining richness with a touch of vegetable flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream together the egg, flour, vinegar, butter, sugar, and salt until thick.
- Cook the mixture until it reaches a thick consistency.
- While warm, add the cream cheese, chopped green pepper, small onion, and pimentos.
- Mix well and let set overnight for best flavor.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, allow the cream cheese to come to room temperature before mixing it in. You can substitute the vinegar with lemon juice for a different tang. If you prefer more crunch, consider adding diced celery or carrots alongside the green pepper. This spread can be enhanced with herbs like dill or chives for added flavor. Serve it with toasted bread or crackers for a delightful appetizer.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Philadelphia Cream Spread with a variety of dippers like fresh vegetables, crackers, or toasted baguette slices. It pairs beautifully with Cowboy Butter for a flavorful appetizer platter. Consider serving it alongside a light salad or as part of a brunch spread. This versatile dish can also be included in sandwich fillings, adding a creamy texture and rich flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. To reheat, gently warm in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently until just warmed through. Avoid overheating as it can alter the texture of the cream cheese. This spread can also be enjoyed cold, making it versatile for serve-your-own style gatherings.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Philadelphia Cream Spread contains roughly 335 calories, with 3g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (28% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1774mg per serving (77% 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 make this spread ahead of time?
Yes, making this spread a day in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will taste even better the next day, making it perfect for parties or gatherings.
What can I use instead of Philadelphia cream cheese?
If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute with Neufchâtel cheese, which has less fat but a similar taste and texture. For a dairy-free alternative, consider using a plant-based cream cheese, which will still deliver a creamy consistency.
Is this spread suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Philadelphia Cream Spread is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat products. However, always check the packaging of your cream cheese and other ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary preferences.
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).