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This Smoked Salmon Cream Cheese Spread is the ultimate easy appetizer! Itโs creamy, flavorful, and ready in minutes. Perfect for spreading on crackers, bagels, or even fresh veggies, itโs a crowd-pleaser for any gathering.
Try our Dill Pickle Dip, Smoked Salmon Dip, or Jalapeรฑo Popper Cheese Ball next!

๐Why Youโll Love it
Confession: as much as we love cooking, there are days when we need something effortless but impressive. Thatโs where this spread comes in! With just a few simple ingredients, itโs quick, versatile, and packed with savory, smoky goodness.
This recipe uses both hot and cold smoked salmon for a balance of bold and delicate flavors. Fresh dill and a touch of lemon add brightness, while roasted jalapeรฑos bring just the right amount of heat. Itโs perfect for holidays, parties, or anytime snacking!

โ What Youโll Need
- Cream cheese โ Use full-fat cream cheese at room temperature for easy blending.
- Sour cream and mayonnaise โ These make the spread extra creamy and smooth.
- Hot smoked salmon โ Adds a rich, smoky depth of flavor.
- Cold smoked salmon โ Brings a silky texture and a classic lox-like taste.
- Dill โ Freshly chopped dill is essential for that bright, herby flavor.
- Lemon juice โ A squeeze of lemon ties everything together.
- Jalapenos โ Roasted, with seeds removed, for a smoky kick of spice.

๐ชHow to Make Smoked Salmon Cream Cheese Spread
This is an overview with step-by-step photos. Full ingredients & instructions are in the recipe card below.
Place all the ingredients in a food processor and pulse on high a few times. Stop to scrape down the sides with a spatula, making sure there are no large chunks left. Pulse again until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

โจSubstitutions and variations
- Skip the jalapenos if you prefer a milder spread, or swap them for a touch of smoked paprika.
- Replace dill with chives or parsley for a different herb flavor.
- For a lighter option, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.

๐ดWhat to Serve with It
This spread pairs beautifully with crackers, toasted baguette slices, or bagels. Add some sliced cucumbers, radishes, or carrots for a fresh, crunchy option. Itโs also amazing as a sandwich spread or dolloped on baked potatoes.
๐๏ธLeftovers and Storage
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before serving again.
- We donโt recommend freezing this spread due to the dairyโitโs best enjoyed fresh!


If you make this recipe be sure to leave a comment or give this recipe a rating โญโญโญโญโญ! We will be happy to hear from you!

Smoked Salmon Cream Cheese Spread
Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 4 ounces HOT smoked salmon
- 2 ounces COLD smoked salmon
- 1 tablespoon freshly chopped dill
- Pinch of salt and pepper
- 2 โ3 jalapenos, roasted, seeds removed, and finely chopped*
- Crackers for serving
Instructions
- Place all the ingredients in a food processor and pulse on high a few times. Stop to scrape down the sides with a spatula, making sure there are no large chunks left. Pulse again until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Serve right away or cover and refrigerate until needed.
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
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I made this for a weekend brunch, and it was a hit! The smoky flavor balanced perfectly with the creamy cheese. Spread on bagels or crackers, it was irresistible. Quick and easy to make but tasted so gourmet!
Hi Jeff! Iโm so happy to hear that your brunch was a success! There’s something magical about the combination of smoked salmon and cream cheese, right?
This was absolutely delicious! Super creamy, perfectly smoky, and full of flavor. I spread it on bagels, and it felt like a fancy brunch at home.
Thatโs exactly the vibe weโre going for, Sophie! So glad you loved it. Thanks for trying the recipe!
I served this with bagels for brunch and got so many compliments. Creamy, smoky, and fresh!
Wonderful, Danielle! Thatโs exactly how I love serving it too.