A small bowl of pale green Benedictine spread with cucumber ribbons and cracked black pepper, served with crackers and small sandwich triangles on a plate.
Benedictine spread is a creamy cucumber spread that feels fancy, but it’s so easy to make. It’s cool, tangy, and perfect for tea sandwiches, crackers, or a snack board. If you need a quick party appetizer, this Benedictine spread is a total crowd-pleaser.
Introduction
This is the kind of recipe people taste once and immediately ask for. It’s light and refreshing, but still rich enough to feel special.
The standout trick is squeezing the cucumber really well. Cucumbers hold a lot of water, and if you skip that step, your spread can turn runny. Trust me, don’t skip this step… it keeps the Benedictine spread thick, creamy, and spreadable.
It’s also meal prep-friendly because it gets even better after chilling. That makes it a weeknight hero for last-minute guests.
Why You’ll Love This Benedictine Spread
- Ultimate party appetizer: Perfect for snack boards and gatherings.
- Cool and refreshing: Crisp cucumber makes it feel light.
- Fast and easy: Mix it up in minutes.
- Make-ahead friendly: Tastes better after chilling.
- Family-friendly: Mild flavors everyone enjoys.
Ingredients for Benedictine Spread
Base
- Cream cheese, softened (8 ounces): The creamy base; full-fat tastes best.
- Mayonnaise (2 tablespoons): Adds silkiness; Greek yogurt works for a tangier, lighter option.
Fresh Flavor
- Cucumber, grated and squeezed dry (1 cup): Cool and crisp; English cucumber is easiest (less seeds).
- Green onions, finely sliced (2 tablespoons): Mild onion flavor; chives work too.
- Lemon juice (1 teaspoon): Brightens everything; white vinegar works in a pinch.
Seasoning
- Garlic powder (1/4 teaspoon): Gentle savory flavor; a tiny pinch of grated garlic works too.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon) and black pepper (1/8 teaspoon): Adjust to taste.
Optional: tiny drop of green food coloring for a classic look, but it’s totally optional and the spread is delicious without it.
Benedictine Spread Recipe Step-by-Step
- 1. Grate: Grate cucumber on the large holes of a box grater.
- 2. Squeeze: Wrap grated cucumber in a clean towel and squeeze hard over the sink until very dry (about 1 minute). This is the secret to thick spread.
- 3. Mix: In a bowl, stir cream cheese and mayonnaise until smooth and creamy.
- 4. Fold: Add cucumber, green onions, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until evenly combined.
- 5. Chill: Cover and chill 30–60 minutes so flavors blend and the spread firms up.
- 6. Serve: Spread on soft bread for tea sandwiches, or serve with crackers and veggies. If it looks too thick after chilling, stir in 1 teaspoon mayo until silky.
Tips for Perfect Benedictine Spread
- Squeeze cucumber very dry so the spread stays thick.
- Soften cream cheese for the smoothest texture.
- Chill before serving for best flavor.
- Taste and adjust salt at the end.
- Use mild onions like green onions or chives (raw onion can overpower).
Variations & Substitutions
- Extra tangy: Use Greek yogurt instead of mayo.
- Herb twist: Add 1 tablespoon chopped dill or parsley.
- Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne or hot sauce.
- Crunchy: Fold in 2 tablespoons finely chopped celery.
- “Lazy” version: Use finely diced cucumber instead of grated (still squeeze dry).
Storing & Reheating
Fridge: Store in an airtight container 3–4 days.
Reheat: Not needed.
Make-ahead: Make up to 2 days ahead for easy entertaining.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
- Tea sandwiches on soft white or wheat bread
- Crackers and sliced cucumbers or carrots
- Snack board with fruit and cheese
- Spread inside wraps for an easy lunch
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes (includes chilling)
Yield: About 1 1/4 cups
Category: Appetizer
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: Southern
Diet: Vegetarian
Reader Review: I made these into little tea sandwiches and the plate disappeared first. So creamy and refreshing.
If you try this Benedictine spread, leave a rating and comment. Are you serving it with crackers or making tea sandwiches?