Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I like that this dip only takes about 10 minutes to put together, yet it tastes like something much more sophisticated. The balance of sweet and savory keeps every bite interesting, and the candied pecans add a crunch that makes it feel special. I also love that I can make it ahead of time, which makes entertaining so much easier.
Ingredients
(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp sour cream
2 tbsp honey (plus extra for drizzling)
1/4 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/3 cup chopped candied pecans
Fresh thyme or rosemary for garnish (optional)
Directions
-
In a mixing bowl, I beat cream cheese, Parmesan, sour cream, honey, garlic powder, and black pepper until smooth and fluffy.
-
I fold in half of the candied pecans.
-
I transfer the dip to a serving bowl and top with the remaining pecans.
-
I drizzle lightly with extra honey and garnish with fresh herbs if I want a pretty finish.
-
I serve with crackers, crostini, apple slices, or pretzels.
Servings and Timing
This recipe makes about 8 servings and takes just 10 minutes from start to finish. It’s ideal when I need a last-minute appetizer that still feels elegant.
Variations
I sometimes add a splash of lemon juice for a brighter flavor, or even swap part of the cream cheese with goat cheese for a tangier twist. If I want more texture, I like to mix in finely chopped dried cranberries or figs. For a more savory profile, I reduce the honey slightly and add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Since it’s a cold dip, I don’t reheat it, but I do let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving so it softens and whips back to a creamier texture. I always add fresh honey drizzle and extra pecans right before serving to keep it looking and tasting fresh.
FAQs
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, I often prepare it a day in advance, but I wait to add the honey drizzle and pecans until right before serving.
What can I serve with this dip?
I like to pair it with crackers, crostini, sliced apples, or pretzels for a nice mix of sweet and salty options.
Can I use regular pecans instead of candied pecans?
Yes, but I find candied pecans add a lovely sweetness and crunch that really elevates the dip.
Can I use pre-shredded Parmesan?
I prefer freshly grated Parmesan because it blends more smoothly, but pre-shredded works in a pinch.
How can I make it tangier?
I swap part of the cream cheese for goat cheese or add a splash of lemon juice for extra tang.
Is this dip vegetarian?
Yes, it’s vegetarian-friendly as long as the Parmesan used is made without animal rennet.
Can I freeze this dip?
I don’t recommend freezing because the texture changes once thawed.
How do I make it more savory?
I cut back on the honey and add some crushed red pepper or fresh herbs.
What if I don’t have sour cream?
I replace it with Greek yogurt for a similar tangy flavor.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, I simply double all the ingredients, and it still whips up beautifully.
Conclusion
This whipped Parmesan and honey pecan cheese dip is one of my favorite quick appetizers because it looks elegant, tastes amazing, and comes together in minutes. I love how versatile it is, whether I’m serving it for a casual snack or a holiday spread. It’s creamy, sweet, savory, and crunchy all in one—truly a dip that always disappears fast.
Whipped Parmesan & Honey Pecan Cheese Dip
- Total Time: 10 mins
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy, sweet, and savory cheese dip made with whipped cream cheese, Parmesan, honey, and crunchy candied pecans. Perfect for parties, holiday spreads, or cozy snacking.
Ingredients
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp sour cream
2 tbsp honey (plus extra for drizzling)
1/4 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/3 cup chopped candied pecans
Fresh thyme or rosemary for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese, Parmesan, sour cream, honey, garlic powder, and black pepper until smooth and fluffy.
- Fold in half of the candied pecans.
- Transfer the dip to a serving bowl and top with the remaining pecans.
- Drizzle lightly with extra honey and garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary if desired.
- Serve with crackers, crostini, apple slices, or pretzels.
Notes
Make ahead: Prepare up to a day in advance, but add honey drizzle and pecans right before serving.
Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Variations: Swap some cream cheese for goat cheese, add lemon juice, dried cranberries, or red pepper flakes.
Not suitable for freezing, as the texture changes.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 0 mins
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tbsp
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
