Description

This creamy and flavorful Confit Garlic Cream Cheese spread is a perfect appetizer or snack, combining slow-cooked garlic cloves with smooth cream cheese and a hint of fresh herbs. The garlic is gently cooked in olive oil until soft and fragrant, then blended into a silky mixture with sour cream, lemon juice, and seasonings. Serve with crusty bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables for a delicious garlic dip that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress.

Ingredients

Scale

Garlic Confit

1 cup garlic cloves (peeled)
1 cup olive oil

Cream Cheese Spread

8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
2 tablespoons sour cream or Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon lemon juice
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or parsley (optional)

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Instructions

Cook the Garlic: Combine peeled garlic cloves and olive oil in a small saucepan. Simmer over low heat for 30 to 40 minutes until the garlic is soft, golden, and fragrant, making sure not to let it brown. Once done, remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture: In a mixing bowl, blend the softened cream cheese, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), lemon juice, salt, and black pepper until smooth and fully combined.
Add the Confit Garlic: Mash 6 to 8 cloves of the cooled confit garlic into the cream cheese mixture using a fork or potato masher. For more pronounced garlic flavor, add additional cloves as desired.
Blend Until Creamy: Use a hand mixer or food processor to thoroughly blend the mixture until smooth and creamy. This ensures a luscious texture and even distribution of flavors.
Mix in Fresh Herbs: Stir in the chopped fresh chives or parsley if using, adding a fresh, vibrant touch to the dip.
Serve and Garnish: Transfer the cream cheese spread to a serving bowl and drizzle a small amount of the reserved garlic-infused olive oil on top for flavor and sheen. Serve immediately with crusty bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables.

Notes

Store any leftover garlic confit in a clean jar, fully covered with the oil, and refrigerate for up to 2 weeks.
Allow the cream cheese spread to sit at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes before serving to soften and enhance the texture.
You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a tangier flavor and lighter texture.
Be careful not to brown the garlic while cooking, as it will develop a bitter taste.