Ingredients:

  • 8 oz full-fat cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp sea salt
  • 1/4 tsp cracked black pepper

Instructions:

  1. Temper the dairy. Place 8 oz full fat cream cheese on the counter for at least 60 minutes until it feels like soft butter when pressed.
  2. Loosen the base. Add 1/2 cup sour cream to a separate small bowl and whisk vigorously for 30 seconds until it looks glossy and pourable.
  3. Combine the fats. Add the sour cream to the softened cream cheese.
  4. Initiate the creaming. Use a hand mixer on low speed to blend the two until no white streaks of pure cheese remain.
  5. Prepare the aromatics. Measure out 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/4 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp sea salt, and 1/4 tsp cracked black pepper.
  6. Incorporate the seasonings. Sprinkle the spices evenly over the dairy mixture rather than dumping them in one spot.
  7. Execute the final whip. Increase the mixer speed to medium and beat for 2 minutes until the mixture looks voluminous and pale.
  8. Test the tension. Dip a cracker into the center; it should pull away with a soft peak that holds its shape.
  9. Chill for depth. Transfer to a serving bowl and let it sit in the fridge for 30 minutes until the flavors have fully married.
  10. Final garnish. Add a crack of fresh pepper on top just before serving.