Cheese Wrapped Pickles are a fun and tasty snack that’s super easy to make! Just take your favorite pickles, wrap them in creamy cheese, and enjoy a delicious bite.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Dill Pickles: Large dill pickles are best for a hearty crunch. If you prefer a milder taste, try using bread and butter pickles. They add a sweet twist to the recipe!
Cream Cheese: This is the base for our cheese filling. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using Greek yogurt or a low-fat cream cheese alternative. You’ll get a creamy texture without as many calories.
Cheddar Cheese: I like shredded cheddar, but any cheese you enjoy works! You could use mozzarella for a milder taste or pepper jack for a spicy kick.
Spices: Garlic and onion powder boost flavor nicely. If you want to experiment, try adding dill weed for an extra dill kick or a dash of cayenne for heat!
How Do You Get the Perfect Fill in Your Cheese Wrapped Pickles?
Filling the pickles with cheese can be a little tricky, but here’s how to make it easier:
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature. It’s much easier to mix and fill with a smoother consistency.
- If you have a piping bag or a zip-top bag, use it for neater filling! Just cut the corner of the bag to pipe the cheese into the pickles.
- For spears, just coat the outside with cheese and sprinkle with seasoning. This way, you get a crunchy bite from every angle!
Once you nail the filling, these bite-sized snacks will be crowd-pleasers!
How to Make Cheese Wrapped Pickles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 large dill pickles, whole or spears
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or preferred cheese)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (for coating)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Optional: Ranch dressing for dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare. It’s a quick and simple snack that’s perfect for gatherings or for satisfying a late-night craving!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pickles:
Start by draining the pickles really well. Use paper towels to pat them dry until there’s no excess moisture. If you’re using whole pickles, you can slice them lengthwise into halves or spears for easy filling.
2. Make the Cheese Mixture:
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix everything together until it’s smooth and evenly blended.
3. Fill the Pickles:
Using a small spoon or a piping bag (if you have one), fill each pickle with your cheese mixture. If you’ve sliced the pickles, you can simply coat the outside with the cheese mixture instead. Ensure that the cheese gets into all the spaces for maximum flavor!
4. Season Your Pickles:
Once you have filled or coated all the pickles with cheese, sprinkle smoked paprika and black pepper over the cheese-covered surfaces. Gently press the spices in to help them stick.
5. Arrange and Serve:
Place your cheese wrapped pickles on a serving plate. You can serve them right away or chill them in the fridge for a refreshing snack. They are delicious either way!
6. Enjoy!
These cheese wrapped pickles are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a party or a simple get-together. Serve with ranch dressing or your favorite dips for added enjoyment. Each bite combines creamy cheese and a satisfying crunch—delicious!
Enjoy this delightful snack treat with family and friends!
Can I Use Different Types of Pickles?
Absolutely! While dill pickles are traditional, feel free to experiment with bread and butter pickles for a sweeter taste or even spicy pickles for added kick. Choose what you love!
What Can I Substitute for Cream Cheese?
If you need a lighter option or a dairy-free alternative, you can use Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese. Both will give a nice creamy texture!
How Do I Store Leftover Cheese Wrapped Pickles?
Store any leftover cheese wrapped pickles in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Enjoy them cold as a quick snack, or let them come to room temperature before serving!
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese wrapped pickles a few hours in advance. Just refrigerate them until you’re ready to serve. This makes them a great option for parties!
