Savory Swiss & Almond Cheese Spread
Indulge in the creamy goodness of this Savory Swiss & Almond Cheese Spread, perfect for entertaining or a cozy night in. This delightful blend of melty Swiss cheese, rich cream cheese, and crunchy sautéed almonds offers a fantastic texture and a subtle warmth from spices like nutmeg and horseradish. Serve it warm with an array of dippables such as toasted bread, crispy crackers, or crunchy pretzels for a delicious snack that’s sure to impress your guests. Ideal for parties, game days, or any occasion that calls for something spreadable and scrumptious!
8
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Swiss cheese
1 1/2 cups (shredded)
Cream cheese
8 ounces (softened)
Onion
1/3 cup (minced)
Nutmeg
1/8 teaspoon
Horseradish
1 teaspoon
Black pepper
1 pinch
Almonds
1/2 cup (sautéed)
Instructions
1
In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded Swiss cheese, softened cream cheese, minced onion, nutmeg, horseradish, black pepper, and sautéed almonds.
2
If using a microwave, transfer the mixture to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 1 to 2-minute increments at 50% power, stirring frequently until the mixture is thoroughly heated and the cheese is melted (approximately 6 to 8 minutes).
3
If using a stovetop, place the mixture in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir continuously for about 6 to 8 minutes until the cheese is melted and the mixture is creamy.
4
Once heated, remove from heat and serve immediately with an assortment of dippables like toasted bread chunks, crunchy crackers, or salty pretzels.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Swiss & Almond Cheese Spread?
It is a creamy and savory appetizer made from a blend of melted Swiss cheese, cream cheese, minced onion, and sautéed almonds.
What types of cheese are used in this recipe?
This recipe uses 1.5 cups of shredded Swiss cheese and 8 ounces of softened cream cheese.
How many servings does this cheese spread make?
This recipe makes approximately 8 servings.
Can I cook this spread in the microwave?
Yes, you can heat it in a microwave-safe bowl at 50% power for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring every 1 to 2 minutes.
How do I prepare the spread on a stovetop?
Place the mixture in a saucepan over medium-low heat and stir continuously for about 6 to 8 minutes until melted.
What should I serve with this cheese spread?
It is delicious served with toasted bread chunks, crunchy crackers, or salty pretzels.
What spices are used to flavor the spread?
The spread is flavored with nutmeg, horseradish, and a pinch of black pepper.
Do the almonds need to be prepared in a specific way?
Yes, the 1/2 cup of almonds should be sautéed before being added to the mixture.
How much onion is required?
The recipe calls for 1/3 cup of minced onion.
What is the total number of ingredients?
There are 7 main ingredients in this recipe.
Is this spread served warm or cold?
This spread is best served warm immediately after the cheese has melted.
Should the cream cheese be cold when mixing?
No, the cream cheese should be softened to ensure it blends easily with the other ingredients.
What is the texture of the Savory Swiss & Almond Cheese Spread?
The texture is creamy and melty with a crunch provided by the sautéed almonds.
How much nutmeg is added?
The recipe uses 1/8 teaspoon of nutmeg.
What is the role of horseradish in this recipe?
Horseradish adds a subtle warmth and depth of flavor to the cheese mixture.
Can I use pre-shredded Swiss cheese?
Yes, 1.5 cups of shredded Swiss cheese is required for the recipe.
What power level should be used for microwaving?
Use 50% power to prevent the cheese from burning or separating.
Is this recipe considered an appetizer?
Yes, it is classified under spreads and is ideal for parties and snacks.
What is the first step in making the spread?
The first step is to combine all the ingredients in a mixing bowl.
How long does the entire heating process take?
Heating takes between 6 to 8 minutes regardless of whether you use a microwave or a stovetop.
Is there any salt added to the recipe?
Salt is not explicitly added, as the cheese and pretzels often provide sufficient saltiness.
What kind of onion should I use?
The recipe calls for 1/3 cup of minced onion; any standard white or yellow onion works well.
How often should I stir the mixture while heating?
You should stir frequently (every 1-2 minutes in the microwave or continuously on the stove) to ensure smooth melting.
Can I serve this with vegetables?
While bread, crackers, and pretzels are recommended, it can also be served with sturdy vegetables.
Is this spread suitable for game days?
Yes, it is specifically noted as being ideal for game days and entertaining guests.
How much horseradish is used?
The recipe requires 1 teaspoon of horseradish.
What provides the 'savory' element?
The combination of Swiss cheese, onion, black pepper, and sautéed almonds creates the savory profile.
Do I need to grease the pan for the stovetop method?
No, the high fat content of the cheeses should prevent sticking as long as you stir continuously.
Can I add more almonds?
While the recipe calls for 1/2 cup, you can adjust the amount to your preference for extra crunch.
Is this a gluten-free recipe?
The spread itself is gluten-free, but ensure you serve it with gluten-free crackers or bread if needed.