Refreshing Cucumber Cream Cheese Spread

Light, refreshing, and incredibly easy to make, this Cucumber Cream Cheese Spread is your new go-to for effortless entertaining or a delightful everyday snack. Made with crisp cucumbers, vibrant green onions, a touch of savory Worcestershire sauce, and creamy cream cheese, it’s a spread that perfectly balances freshness with richness. Whether you’re topping bagels, crackers, or fresh vegetables, its smooth texture and herbaceous flavor will leave you craving more.

Irresistibly Creamy Cucumber Cream Cheese Spread: Your Ultimate Snack & Appetizer

Prepare to discover a truly addictive spread that has earned the affectionate nickname “Cucumber Crack” among friends – and for good reason! Our Cucumber Cream Cheese Spread is more than just a dip; it’s a culinary revelation, transforming simple ingredients into a spread that’s perfect for any occasion. Imagine the cool crunch of fresh cucumber paired with the subtle bite of green onions, all enveloped in a cloud of smooth, tangy cream cheese, enhanced by a hint of Worcestershire sauce. It’s a versatile delight that will quickly become a staple in your kitchen, offering a refreshing alternative to heavier spreads. This recipe is a close cousin to the classic Benedictine spread, but with its own unique, slightly thicker consistency that makes it ideal for a variety of uses.

Creamy Cucumber Spread for bagels or crackers.

Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Cucumber Cream Cheese Spread

This isn’t just another recipe; it’s an experience in simplicity and flavor. Here’s why our Cucumber Cream Cheese Spread is bound to become a favorite:

  • Effortlessly Delicious: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this delightful spread in no time. It’s perfect for busy weekdays or impromptu gatherings.
  • Incredibly Versatile: From breakfast bagels to elegant appetizers, this spread adapts to every need. It’s equally at home on a casual cracker platter as it is gracing fancy tea sandwiches.
  • Fresh & Light: The cucumber provides a refreshing crunch and lightness, making it a perfect antidote to heavier, calorie-dense options. It’s a fantastic way to incorporate fresh vegetables into your diet.
  • Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone, from picky eaters to gourmet palates, loves this spread. Its balanced flavors are universally appealing, making it a guaranteed hit at any party or family meal.
  • Customizable: While delicious as is, this recipe is a fantastic canvas for your culinary creativity. Add different herbs, spices, or even a splash of lemon juice to tailor it to your taste.

Is Cucumber Cream Cheese Spread Low Carb or Keto-Friendly?

Absolutely! This spread is an excellent choice for those following a low-carb or keto lifestyle. Made primarily from fresh vegetables and cream cheese, it naturally fits into these dietary plans. I often prepare this for myself and my friends who are conscious about carbohydrate intake. It makes for a fantastic snack, a light lunch when paired with appropriate low-carb options, or a refreshing appetizer that won’t derail your diet.

For my low-carb companions, this spread shines when served on low-carb tortillas, crisp lettuce wraps, or even thick slices of zucchini or bell pepper. The refreshing flavor and creamy texture provide a satisfying experience without the excess carbs typically found in bread or crackers. It’s a testament to how delicious healthy eating can be!

a butter knife inserted into cucumber cream cheese spread in a white bowl.

Essential Ingredients for Your Creamy Cucumber Creation

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this delectable spread. While the recipe is simple, the quality of your components will elevate the final taste. Here’s what you’ll need, along with some insights:

  • Cucumber: The star of the show! Use a fresh, firm cucumber. English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers are often preferred for their thinner skin and fewer seeds, meaning less prep work. If using a regular garden cucumber, you might want to peel it and remove some of the watery seeds for a firmer spread.
  • Green Onions (Scallions): These provide a mild, peppery onion flavor that complements the cucumber and cream cheese beautifully. Use both the white and green parts for maximum flavor and visual appeal.
  • Cream Cheese: The base for our creamy texture. An 8-ounce block of full-fat cream cheese yields the richest flavor and best consistency. It’s crucial for the cream cheese to be softened to room temperature. This ensures it blends smoothly with the other ingredients, preventing lumps and creating a uniformly creamy spread. If you’re in a hurry, check out my tips on How to Soften Cream Cheese Quickly.
  • Worcestershire Sauce: This secret ingredient adds a subtle depth and umami kick that takes the spread from good to great. Don’t skip it! It provides a savory complexity without overpowering the fresh flavors.
  • Salt: A pinch of salt is essential to enhance all the other flavors and bring them into harmony. Adjust to taste.
cream cheese, green onions, cucumber, salt, Worcestershire sauce.

Crafting Your Cucumber Cream Cheese Spread: Step-by-Step Guide

Making this spread is incredibly simple, especially if you have a food processor. It cuts down prep time significantly, getting you to the delicious reward even faster!

Using a Food Processor: The Quick & Easy Method

  1. Prepare the Vegetables: Start by trimming the roots from the base of your green onions and roughly chopping them. For the cucumber, peel it if desired (or if using a thick-skinned variety) and cut it into manageable chunks. If your cucumber is particularly watery, you might gently pat the chunks dry with a paper towel to prevent a runny spread.
  2. Process the Vegetables: Place the chopped green onions and cucumber chunks into the bowl of your food processor.
  3. cucumbers and green onion in food processor.
  4. Chop Coarsely: Secure the lid and pulse the food processor until the vegetables are coarsely chopped. The key here is to avoid over-processing them into a watery mush. You want discernible small pieces of cucumber for texture. A few quick pulses should do the trick.
  5. coarsely chopped green onion and cucumber in food processor.
  6. Add Creamy Components: Now, add the softened cream cheese (remember, room temperature is essential for smoothness!), Worcestershire sauce, and salt to the food processor bowl with the chopped vegetables.
  7. softened cream cheese, Worcestershire sauce and salt added to food processor bowl.
  8. Process Until Smooth: Cover and process again until the mixture is smooth and well combined. You can control the texture here; pulse a few more times for a completely smooth spread, or leave it slightly chunkier if you prefer more texture from the cucumber.
  9. Chill for Flavor Blending: Transfer the spread to a medium bowl, cover it tightly, and refrigerate overnight. This step is crucial and shouldn’t be skipped! Allowing the spread to chill overnight gives the flavors time to meld and deepen, resulting in a much more delicious and harmonious taste. Trust me, it makes a significant difference.
  10. Cucumber Cream Cheese Bagel Spread

No Food Processor? No Problem! (Manual Method)

If you don’t have a food processor, you can still achieve this delicious spread with a little elbow grease and an electric mixer:

  1. Finely Chop: The key to a smooth spread without a food processor is very finely chopping your cucumber and green onions. Use a sharp knife to mince them as small as possible. You can even grate the cucumber for an even finer texture, just be sure to squeeze out excess moisture if you do.
  2. Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the finely chopped cucumber, green onions, softened cream cheese, Worcestershire sauce, and salt.
  3. Beat Until Smooth: Using an electric mixer (handheld or stand mixer), beat the mixture on medium speed until it is smooth and all ingredients are thoroughly combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure everything gets incorporated.
  4. Refrigerate: Just like with the food processor method, cover the bowl and refrigerate the spread overnight. This allows the flavors to fully develop and makes for the best possible taste experience.
Creamy Cucumber Green Onion spread on Ritz cracker

Creative Serving Suggestions

While bagels and crackers are classic pairings for this delightful spread, don’t limit yourself! Here are some creative ways to enjoy your Cucumber Cream Cheese Spread:

  • Elegant Tea Sandwiches: Spread generously between slices of crustless white bread for a sophisticated touch at brunches or afternoon tea.
  • Vegetable Dip: Serve it as a dip for a vibrant crudités platter featuring carrots, celery sticks, bell pepper strips, cherry tomatoes, and snap peas.
  • Lettuce Wraps: For a super low-carb option, use crisp lettuce cups (like butter lettuce or endive spears) as a vehicle for the spread.
  • Sandwich Filler: Elevate your everyday sandwich or wrap by using this spread as a flavorful base. It pairs wonderfully with turkey, ham, or even grilled chicken.
  • Cucumber Bites: Slice fresh cucumber rounds, spread a dollop of cream cheese mixture on top, and garnish with a tiny sprig of fresh dill or a sprinkle of paprika for an effortless appetizer.
  • Stuffed Bell Peppers: Halve small bell peppers and fill them with the spread for a colorful and healthy snack.
  • Deviled Egg Enhancement: Add a spoonful to your deviled egg filling for an extra layer of creaminess and fresh flavor.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Cucumber Cream Cheese Spread is an excellent make-ahead option, as its flavors only improve with time in the refrigerator.

  • Storage: Store the spread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. It tends to firm up slightly when chilled, so let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving if you prefer a softer consistency.
  • Freezing: Freezing cream cheese spreads is generally not recommended, as the texture can become grainy and separate upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh within a few days.

Flavor Enhancements and Variations

Feel free to customize this recipe to your liking. Here are some ideas to inspire you:

  • Fresh Herbs: Add finely chopped fresh dill, chives, parsley, or a combination for an extra burst of herbaceous flavor. Dill pairs exceptionally well with cucumber and cream cheese.
  • Garlic & Onion Powder: For a more pronounced savory kick, mix in a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder.
  • A Touch of Spice: A tiny dash of cayenne pepper or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a subtle heat if you like a little zing.
  • Lemon Zest or Juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a bit of lemon zest can brighten the flavors and add a lovely tang.
  • Other Vegetables: Experiment with finely minced radishes for a peppery crunch, or a bit of grated carrot for color and sweetness. Just be mindful of moisture content.
  • Smoked Paprika: For a smoky undertone and beautiful color, sprinkle in a small amount of smoked paprika.

Craving More Refreshing Recipes?

  • Creamy Cucumber Salad
  • Vinegar Cucumber Salad
  • Marinated Tomato Cucumber Salad
  • Bread & Butter Pickles

Originally published: March 2011
Updated and republished: March 2019

Creamy Cucumber Spread

Cucumber Cream Cheese Spread

This incredibly easy and refreshing Cucumber Cream Cheese Spread is perfect for spreading on bagels or crackers, or serving as a light appetizer. Made with fresh cucumbers, green onions, a hint of Worcestershire sauce, and smooth cream cheese, it’s a versatile and crowd-pleasing delight.

4.83 stars from 253 Reviews

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Prep Time:
10 minutes
Total Time:
10 minutes
Servings:
4
Author:
Brandie Skibinski

Ingredients

  • ½ cucumber, peeled and cut into chunks
  • 3 green onions
  • 8 ounce block cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Add ½ cucumber, peeled and cut into chunks to food processor bowl. Trim roots from 3 green onions , cut into slices, and place in food processor.
  2. Cover and process until coarsely chopped (DO NOT OVER PROCESS!). You want some texture from the cucumber, not a watery puree.
  3. Add 8 ounce block cream cheese, softened to room temperature, 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce and ⅛ teaspoon salt.
  4. Cover and process again until well combined and smooth. Again, be careful not to over-process to maintain some of the cucumber’s fresh texture. Transfer the mixture to a serving bowl.
  5. Cover the bowl tightly and refrigerate overnight for the flavors to fully blend and develop. This crucial step significantly enhances the taste, so please do not skip it and try to eat it right away.

Video Tutorial

Notes

Electric Hand Mixer Instructions:

  • Finely chop the cucumber and the green onions. You can grate the cucumber for an even finer consistency, just be sure to gently squeeze out any excess moisture.
  • In a medium bowl, combine the finely chopped cucumber, green onions, softened cream cheese, Worcestershire sauce, and salt.
  • Beat with an electric mixer until the mixture is smooth and thoroughly combined.
  • Cover and refrigerate overnight for the best flavor blending.

Customization: Feel free to adjust the amount of cucumber to your preference – use a little less for a richer spread, or a little more for extra freshness. Always serve chilled on a lightly toasted bagel, your favorite crackers, or fresh vegetables.

Course:
Appetizer, Brunch, Lunch, Snack
Cuisine:
American

Nutrition


Calories: 68kcal
|

Carbohydrates: 6g
|

Protein: 9g
|

Sodium: 487mg
|

Sugar: 3g

Nutritional Disclaimer

“The Country Cook” is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is an estimate. If calorie count and other nutritional values are important to you, we recommend running the ingredients through whichever online nutritional calculator you prefer. Calories and other nutritional values can vary quite a bit depending on which brands were used.

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In conclusion, this Cucumber Cream Cheese Spread is more than just a recipe; it’s a versatile culinary companion that promises ease, freshness, and irresistible flavor. Whether you’re planning a sophisticated brunch, a casual get-together, or simply seeking a healthy and satisfying snack, this spread delivers every time. Its simplicity allows the natural flavors of the cucumber and green onion to shine, while the creamy base provides a comforting richness. Remember, the overnight chill is your secret weapon for maximizing its deliciousness. So go ahead, whip up a batch, let the flavors meld, and prepare to delight your taste buds and impress your guests with this truly remarkable spread!