Cheese Spread Dice: A Culinary Game Changer

My earliest memories of gatherings always included a spread of enticing snacks, but there was one that always stood out: a vibrant, cheesy concoction meticulously shaped and decorated like dice. It wasn’t just the delicious blend of flavors that captivated me, but the sheer artistry and playfulness of the presentation. Those cheesy dice transformed an ordinary snack into a conversation starter, a centerpiece of fun, and a symbol of shared joy. This recipe aims to recreate that magic, bringing a touch of whimsy and deliciousness to your next gathering.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 8 hours 20 minutes (includes chilling time)
• Servings: Varies based on serving size
• Yield: 3 cups
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 3 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened, divided
• 2 cups shredded Italian cheese blend or 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup finely chopped yellow sweet onion
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon minced fresh basil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 dashes Tabasco sauce, to taste
• 1 teaspoon milk (plus additional tsp if necessary for spreadable quality)
• 8 medium pitted ripe black olives

Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls
• 8-inch by 4-inch by 2-inch loaf pan
• Plastic wrap
• Serving plate
• Knife

Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, thoroughly combine two packages of the softened cream cheese, shredded Italian cheese blend (or mozzarella cheese), finely chopped yellow sweet onion, Worcestershire sauce, minced fresh basil, garlic powder, and Tabasco sauce. Adjust the amount of Tabasco sauce to your preferred level of spiciness.

2. Line an 8-inch by 4-inch by 2-inch loaf pan with plastic wrap, ensuring there is enough overhang to easily remove the cheese mixture later. This step is crucial for easy removal and a clean presentation.

3. Press the cream cheese mixture firmly and evenly into the prepared loaf pan. Ensure there are no air pockets. Cover the filled loaf pan with the overhanging plastic wrap or an additional sheet.

4. Refrigerate the covered cream cheese mixture overnight (at least 8 hours). This chilling period is essential for the mixture to firm up enough to hold its shape when unmolded.

5. The next day, remove the chilled cheese mixture from the refrigerator. Use the plastic wrap overhang to carefully lift the mixture out of the loaf pan.

6. Using a sharp knife, cut the cheese mixture in half width-wise. You will now have two rectangular blocks of cheese.

7. Carefully stack one rectangular cheese block on top of the other on a serving plate to form a cube. This is the foundation of your “cheese dice.”

8. In a separate mixing bowl, beat the remaining package of softened cream cheese with 1 teaspoon of milk until smooth and easily spreadable. If the mixture is too thick, add an additional teaspoon of milk at a time until the desired consistency is achieved. This will be used as a “frosting” for the cheese cube.

9. Using a spatula or knife, evenly spread the thinned cream cheese mixture over the entire surface of the cheese cube. Ensure the entire cube is covered for a smooth and uniform appearance.

10. Cut the pitted ripe black olives in half. These will be used to create the “dots” on the dice.

11. Carefully arrange the olive halves on the top and sides of the cheese cube to resemble the dots on dice. A standard six-sided die has faces with 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 dots. Use your creativity and precision to make it look authentic.

12. Serve immediately with crackers or your favorite dipping accompaniments.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Softening the Cream Cheese: Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth, even texture. Leave it at room temperature for at least an hour, or microwave it in short bursts (10-15 seconds) until softened, being careful not to melt it.
• Spice Level: Taste the mixture before chilling and adjust the amount of Tabasco sauce to your preference. A little goes a long way! You could also substitute other hot sauces or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Cheese Variety: Feel free to experiment with different cheese blends. Sharp cheddar, provolone, or even a smoked gouda could add unique flavors.
• Herb Options: Instead of fresh basil, try other fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or dill. Dried herbs can also be used, but use about half the amount as fresh herbs since their flavor is more concentrated.
• Make-Ahead Tip: The cheese mixture can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Add the “frosting” and olive decorations just before serving to prevent the olives from drying out.
• Unmolding Made Easy: To further ensure easy unmolding, you can lightly grease the inside of the plastic wrap before pressing in the cheese mixture.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve the Cheese Spread Dice chilled with a variety of crackers, baguette slices, pretzels, or even vegetable sticks like carrots and celery. Arrange the serving plate attractively with the accompaniments artfully displayed around the cheesy dice.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The olives might dry out slightly, but the flavor will remain. It’s not recommended to freeze the cheese spread, as it can alter the texture. This is best served cold so re-heating is not recommended. It can sit at room temperature for 2 hours.

Nutritional Information

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and serving size.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	810.3 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	712 g	88%
Total Fat	79.2 g	121%
Saturated Fat	44 g	220%
Cholesterol	250.2 mg	83%
Sodium	874.9 mg	36%
Total Carbohydrate	14.4 g	4%
Dietary Fiber	0.9 g	3%
Sugars	9 g	N/A
Protein	14.1 g	28%

Variations & Substitutions

• Spicy Kick: Add finely chopped jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture for an extra layer of heat.
• Mediterranean Twist: Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese for a Mediterranean-inspired flavor profile.
• Smoked Flavors: Use smoked paprika, smoked mozzarella, or add a few drops of liquid smoke to the mixture for a smoky depth.
• Vegetarian Option: While this recipe is already vegetarian, ensure that the Worcestershire sauce you are using is vegetarian-friendly, as some brands contain anchovies.
• Nutty Texture: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the cheese mixture for a contrasting texture and nutty flavor.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
A: Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese, but the texture of the cheese spread may be slightly different and may not hold its shape as well.

Q: Can I make this without onion?
A: Yes, you can omit the onion if you prefer. However, the onion adds a subtle sweetness and flavor that complements the other ingredients.

Q: How long will the cheese spread last in the refrigerator?
A: The cheese spread will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator if stored in an airtight container.

Q: Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
A: Yes, you can use pre-shredded cheese, but freshly shredded cheese tends to melt and incorporate into the mixture more smoothly.

Q: What kind of crackers go well with this cheese spread?
A: This cheese spread pairs well with a variety of crackers, including water crackers, wheat crackers, and rye crackers.

Final Thoughts

Now it’s your turn to bring a little fun and flavor to your next gathering with these adorable Cheese Spread Dice. Don’t be afraid to get creative with the decorations and flavors, and most importantly, enjoy the process of creating a memorable and delicious appetizer. Share your creations and feedback – and perhaps a few photos of your own dice masterpieces! Pair it with a crisp white wine or a refreshing craft beer for the ultimate appetizer experience.