Are you looking for a quick and easy appetizer that's sure to impress your guests? Look no further! This Swiss Almond Cheese Spread is incredibly simple to make, requiring minimal ingredients and effort, yet delivers a burst of creamy, nutty, and subtly sweet flavor. It's perfect for parties, holiday gatherings, or a simple weeknight snack. This recipe is a fantastic example of delicious dishes that are surprisingly quick to prepare, making it an ideal addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meals.
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup slivered almonds, toasted
- 1/4 cup grated Swiss cheese
- 2 tablespoons milk or cream
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
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Toast the Almonds: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the slivered almonds on a baking sheet and toast for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly golden brown and fragrant. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning. Let them cool completely.
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Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, toasted almonds, grated Swiss cheese, milk (or cream), honey (or maple syrup), lemon juice, almond extract, and salt.
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Mix Thoroughly: Using a hand mixer or a spatula, mix all the ingredients until they are completely smooth and creamy. If using a hand mixer, start on a low speed and gradually increase to medium to avoid splattering.
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Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the spread to firm up slightly. This chilling step is key for achieving the perfect consistency.
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Enjoy! Serve your Swiss Almond Cheese Spread with crackers, baguette slices, pretzels, or vegetable sticks. It's also delicious as a sandwich spread or topping for your favorite fruits.
Tips for the Best Swiss Almond Cheese Spread:
- Soften the cream cheese completely: This will ensure a smooth and creamy texture. You can soften it quickly by microwaving it in short bursts, or leaving it out at room temperature for about an hour.
- Don't over-toast the almonds: Over-toasted almonds can become bitter. Watch them carefully while toasting.
- Adjust sweetness to taste: If you prefer a sweeter spread, add a bit more honey or maple syrup. If you prefer it less sweet, reduce the amount.
- Get creative with add-ins: Feel free to experiment with other add-ins such as dried cranberries, chopped pecans, or a dash of cinnamon.
Variations:
- Spicy Swiss Almond Spread: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Herb Swiss Almond Spread: Incorporate 1-2 tablespoons of fresh chopped herbs, such as chives, parsley, or dill, for a fresh, herbaceous flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. It's best to use a nutrition calculator for a more precise analysis based on your ingredient choices.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Fat: 12-15g
- Protein: 4-5g
- Carbohydrates: 5-7g
This Swiss Almond Cheese Spread recipe is a delightful addition to your repertoire of homemade cooking. It’s a perfect example of how quick dinner ideas can be both delicious and healthy. Enjoy this easy recipe for parties, snacks, or a simple yet elegant appetizer.