Description
This Port Wine Cheese Spread is a rich, creamy, and slightly tangy appetizer infused with the deep, slightly sweet notes of aged port wine. Made with sharp cheddar and cream cheese, it delivers a perfect balance of flavors, making it a standout addition to any charcuterie board. Whether served with crackers, fresh fruit, or crusty bread, this spread is an effortless yet sophisticated choice for any occasion. The best part? It’s easy to prepare, requires no cooking, and can be made ahead of time for even better flavor development.
Ingredients
Scale
Essential Ingredients:
- 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup aged port wine
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- ¼ tsp salt, or to taste
- ¼ tsp black pepper, freshly ground
Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor:
- 2 tbsp chopped pecans or walnuts (for added crunch)
- ½ tsp Dijon mustard (for a mild tang)
- Pinch of cayenne pepper (for subtle heat)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Shred the sharp cheddar cheese finely to ensure a smooth, even consistency.
- Allow the cream cheese to sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes to soften, making it easier to blend.
Step 2: Blend the Cheese Mixture
- In a mixing bowl or food processor, combine the cheddar cheese, cream cheese, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Blend until the mixture becomes slightly crumbly but starts to come together.
Step 3: Incorporate the Port Wine
- Slowly add the port wine, mixing continuously. The mixture should become smooth and spreadable with a light reddish hue.
- Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure all ingredients are fully incorporated.
Step 4: Adjust & Refine
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. For a bolder cheese flavor, add more cheddar; if too thick, mix in a small amount of port wine until you reach the desired consistency.
Step 5: Chill for Best Flavor
- Transfer the mixture to a sealed container or serving dish.
- Refrigerate for at least one hour, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
- Remove the spread from the refrigerator 5–10 minutes before serving to soften slightly.
- Garnish with chopped nuts, a sprinkle of smoked paprika, or fresh herbs for an elegant touch.
- Serve with crackers, baguette slices, or fresh fruit for a perfectly balanced appetizer.
Notes
- Cheese Matters: Using aged sharp cheddar gives the spread a stronger, more complex flavor.
- Wine Selection: Choose a tawny or ruby port for the best balance of sweetness and depth.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: The spread tastes even better the next day, as the flavors deepen over time.
- Texture Adjustments: If the spread is too firm, mix in a small splash of port wine before serving. If it’s too soft, let it chill longer in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tbsp
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Port wine cheese spread, cheese appetizer, easy party dip, wine and cheese pairing, holiday appetizer