Smoked Cream Cheese with Hot Honey and Bacon: The Perfect Appetizer for Your Next Party

If you’re looking to elevate your appetizer game, smoked cream cheese with hot honey and bacon is the delicious recipe you need.

This easy appetizer combines smoky flavor, crispy bacon, and the perfect balance of savory flavors, making it a surefire hit at your next party.

Made using a smoker, this simple yet gourmet dish is destined to become a favorite in your smoker recipes collection.

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Ingredients You’ll Need for Smoked Cream Cheese with Hot Honey and Bacon:

1 block of cream cheese
1/4 lb bacon
2 tbsp of your favorite BBQ rub
3 tbsp of hot honey
Crackers for serving

Why Smoked Cream Cheese?

Smoked Cream Cheese with Hot Honey and Bacon. — *Photos from this recipe are from Brittany Scott (Instagram:* @the_salted_bite)

Smoked cream cheese has taken the food world by storm, and for good reason.

When exposed to smoke, the block of cream cheese absorbs incredible smoky flavor, creating a creamy, flavorful base that pairs perfectly with the crispy bacon and sweet heat of hot honey.

It’s the perfect appetizer to serve with your favorite crackers or chips.

Step-by-Step Recipe for Smoked Cream Cheese with Hot Honey and Bacon

1. Preheat Your Smoker

To get the best flavor, preheat your smoker to 275°F. For a touch of sweetness that enhances the cream cheese, use cherry wood.

The Kamado Joe smoker, is perfect for achieving that rich smoke flavor and consistent temperature. You can also use any sort of pellet grill / pellet smoker for this recipe.

2. Prepare the Cream Cheese

Start by scoring the block of cream cheese in a crosshatch pattern. This not only makes it look attractive but also allows the smoky flavor and BBQ rub to penetrate deeper.

cream cheese scored in a crosshatch pattern.

Generously season the cream cheese with your favorite BBQ rub on all sides, ensuring even coverage for the best results.

3. Prepare the Smoker Setup

Line a small sheet pan with aluminum foil to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. Place the seasoned block of cream cheese on the prepared pan and transfer it to the smoker.

4. Smoke the Cream Cheese

Let the cream cheese smoke for 1 hour. This will allow it to develop a golden exterior and soak up all that incredible smoky flavor.

The crosshatch pattern will expand slightly, creating the perfect texture for holding the toppings.

5. Cook the Bacon

While the cream cheese is smoking, cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet, let it cool slightly, then chop it finely with a sharp knife.

The crispy bacon adds a satisfying crunch and savory depth to the dish.

6. Assemble the Dish

Once the cream cheese has finished smoking, remove it from the smoker.

Add the chopped crispy bacon and a hot honey drizzle on top of the cream cheese block.

The combination of smoky flavor, salty bacon, and sweet-spicy honey creates the perfect balance of flavors.

Hot honey drizzled on smoked cream cheese.

7. Serve and Enjoy

Serve the smoked cream cheese with your favorite crackers or chips. It’s an easy appetizer that will have your guests coming back for more. For the best results, pair it with sturdy crackers that can handle the creamy and flavorful topping.

Tips for Success

Use Quality Ingredients

Cream Cheese: A high-quality block of cream cheese ensures the best flavor and texture.
BBQ Rub: Choose a BBQ rub with a balance of sweet, smoky, and spicy notes to complement the dish.
Hot Honey: Opt for a premium hot honey that offers the perfect blend of sweetness and heat.
Experiment with different wood pellets, such as applewood or hickory, to create unique flavor profiles.
Ensure your smoker is properly preheated and maintains a consistent temperature for smoking.

Store Leftovers Properly

If you have any leftovers (though that’s unlikely!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Gently reheat the smoked cream cheese before serving to maintain its creamy texture.

Why Smoked Cream Cheese with Hot Honey and Bacon Is a Crowd-Pleaser

Smoked cream cheese with hot honey and bacon is more than just an appetizer—it’s a conversation starter. Here’s why it’s a hit:

Smoky Flavor: The cream cheese takes on a subtle, smoky essence that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients.
Perfect Balance: The combination of savory bacon, spicy-sweet hot honey, and creamy cheese creates an irresistible harmony.
Easy to Make: With minimal prep and hands-off smoking time, this recipe is perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks.
Versatile Serving Options: While crackers are a classic choice, you can also serve it with fresh vegetables, pretzels, or even toasted bread.

Take It to the Next Level

For those who want to experiment, try adding:

Chopped herbs: Fresh chives or parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Additional seasonings: A sprinkle of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
Different proteins: Swap bacon for prosciutto or smoked sausage bits for a unique twist.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re hosting a casual backyard barbecue or a festive holiday gathering, this smoked cream cheese appetizer will steal the show. Its smoky flavor and savory-sweet topping make it a versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

Final Thoughts

Smoked cream cheese with hot honey and bacon is a simple yet gourmet dish that delivers next-level flavor. From the crosshatch pattern to the drizzle of hot honey, every step of this recipe is designed to impress.

So fire up your smoker, grab your favorite crackers, and get ready to enjoy the perfect appetizer for your next party. This is one of those smoker recipes that you’ll make again and again, thanks to its ease and unbeatable taste.

Don’t forget to share this delicious recipe with your friends and family—it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

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