Can I make hot honey from scratch for this recipe?

Absolutely! Combine 1 cup of high-quality honey with 1-2 teaspoons of red pepper flakes in a small saucepan. Warm over low heat for 5-7 minutes (do not boil), then remove from heat and steep for 1 hour. Strain out the pepper flakes or leave them in for stronger heat. Store in a sealed container at room temperature for up to 3 months.

Is this dip gluten-free?

The Hot Honey Cream Cheese Dip itself is gluten-free, but be mindful of your dipping choices. Serve with gluten-free crackers or fresh vegetables to maintain a fully gluten-free appetizer option.

Can I prepare this dip in a slow cooker instead of baking?

Yes! Combine all ingredients except for the final hot honey drizzle and garnishes in a small slow cooker. Cook on low for 1.5-2 hours, stirring occasionally. Add the remaining hot honey and garnishes just before serving.

How spicy is this dip?

The heat level is moderate and balanced by the sweetness and creaminess. You can easily adjust the spiciness by choosing a milder hot honey or making your own with more or fewer pepper flakes.

What wine pairs best with Hot Honey Cream Cheese Dip?

The sweet-spicy-creamy profile pairs beautifully with off-dry Riesling or Gewürztraminer. For red wine lovers, a fruit-forward Zinfandel complements the flavor profile without overwhelming it.

Can I add protein to make this more substantial?

Definitely! Adding 1/2 cup of shredded rotisserie chicken, chopped cooked shrimp, or crumbled cooked sausage transforms this from an appetizer into a heartier dip that can serve as the centerpiece of a casual meal.

Hot Honey Cream Cheese Dip For The Ultimate Party Spread

Description

This Hot Honey Cream Cheese Dip blends sweet heat with creamy richness—perfect for parties, game day, or any crowd-pleasing appetizer spread.

Ingredients

Scale

16 oz cream cheese, softened
1/3 cup hot honey
1/4 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
2 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 tsp garlic powder)
1/4 cup green onions, thinly sliced
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or pepper jack)
1/4 tsp sea salt
Fresh cracked black pepper to taste
2 tbsp chopped fresh chives for garnish
Additional hot honey for serving
Optional: 1/4 cup cooked bacon or chopped jalapeños

Instructions

Prepare Ingredients: Soften cream cheese and prepare other ingredients.
Mix Base: Combine cream cheese and sour cream; mix until fluffy.
Add Flavorings: Fold in garlic, half of the green onions, salt, and pepper.
Prepare for Baking: Transfer mixture to a baking dish; top with cheddar cheese.
Bake: Bake at 350°F for 18-20 minutes; broil for 2 minutes for a golden top.
Add Hot Honey: Drizzle hot honey over the dip after baking.
Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with remaining green onions and chives.

Notes

Use room temperature cream cheese for a smooth texture.
Avoid overmixing after adding cheese.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Appetizer, Dip
Method: Baked
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/4 cup
Calories: 215 kcal
Sugar: 7g
Sodium: 230mg
Fat: 19g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fiber: <1g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 62mg

Keywords: Hot Honey Cream Cheese Dip, party dip, spicy cheese dip, sweet heat dip, holiday appetizer