Benedictine Spread

Benedictine spread is the old-fashioned app missing from your snack time. This cream cheese dip recipe may not be widely known outside of Kentucky, but it has existed for more than a century. Today, it’s synonymous with the Kentucky Derby, along with other favorite Derby Day recipes . And, yes, it goes great with a mint julep!

You’ll most likely see creamy Benedictine spread served as a dip with assorted vegetables or snack rye bread. Historically, though, it was often used as a filling for cucumber sandwiches . Whether you dip, dunk or spread it, crowd-pleasing appetizer recipes like this one will be a hit at any party.

Why is it called Benedictine spread?

Benedictine spread gets its name from the creator of the recipe, Jennie Carter Benedict, a cookbook author and restaurateur from Louisville. She developed the recipe during her early years as a caterer, or possibly for her eponymously named tearoom, Jennie Benedict & Co., which she opened in 1900.

Benedictine Spread Ingredients

• Cream cheese :Thick cream cheese is the primary base for this simple dip. It gives the spread subtle tang and body that holds up well to the water content of the cucumber. Soften the cream cheese so that you don’t end up with lumps in the dip. Plus, it’ll just be easier to mix!

• Mayonnaise:While some variations of Benedictine spread opt for sour cream, we love the added richness mayonnaise brings to the recipe. However, it’s such a small amount that either one will work. Miracle Whip would get the job done, too.

• Cucumber:Cucumber is the star of this dip—but which cucumber varieties can you use for Benedictine spread? American slicing cucumbers are fine; just pat them dry to remove excess moisture. Long English cucumbers would also work. They’re sweeter and have fewer seeds.

• Onion:Finely chopped onion cuts through the sweetness of the cucumbers and gives the dip a subtle bite.

• Dill:Dill and cucumber were made for each other (as evidenced by creamy dill cucumber salad ). Dill complements the cucumber and infuses the dip with additional freshness and flavor.

• Green food coloring:This traditional ingredient provides Benedictine spread with its signature hue. You may omit it like we did, since it doesn’t alter the taste of the dip, only its appearance. Or, try natural food dye instead.

Directions

Step 1: Mix the creamy base

In a small bowl, combine the cream cheese, mayonnaise, salt, white pepper, dill and, if desired, green food coloring. Beat the mixture until it’s smooth and creamy.

Step 2: Add the cucumber and onions

Next, add the cucumber and onion and stir until the dip is combined. Serve it with an assortment of vegetables (this would be a great dip for a crudite platter ), snack rye bread, pita bread or crackers.

Editor’s Tip: Benedictine spread is best enjoyed chilled. Serve it immediately; otherwise, cover it and keep it chilled in the refrigerator until you’re ready to enjoy it.

Benedictine Spread Variations

• Swap in Greek yogurt:For an extra dose of protein and tang, you can replace the mayonnaise with an equal amount of plain Greek yogurt .

• Add heat:In Ms. Benedict’s traditional Benedictine spread recipe, a dash of cayenne pepper is included to give the dip a little kick.

• Brighten it up:While not traditional, a small squeeze of lemon juice or a pinch of lemon zest would pair well with the dill and cucumber flavors in Benedictine spread.

How to Store Benedictine Spread

Store Benedictine spread in an airtight container and refrigerate it.

How long does Benedictine spread last?

Benedictine spread should be enjoyed within three to four days for the best taste and freshness. Note that the cucumbers will release water as they sit in the spread, so give the dip a stir before serving it again to marry everything back together.

Can you freeze Benedictine spread?

No. Because this spread is made mostly from dairy and cucumbers, neither of which freeze well, we don’t recommend freezing Benedictine spread.

Benedictine Spread Tips

Do you need to peel the cucumber for Benedictine spread?

No. While peeling the cucumber for Benedictine spread is traditional, you can choose to leave the skin on the cucumber for some added color and fiber. Just note that the texture of the dip will change slightly with some skin in the game.

How can you make sure your Benedictine spread isn’t watery?

Our recipe for Benedictine spread has the perfect consistency, but if your cucumbers are extra watery, consider removing the seeds. Simply slice each cucumbers in half lengthwise and run a spoon down its middle. A grapefruit spoon works like a charm, but any small spoon will do.

How do you serve Benedictine spread?

You can serve Benedictine spread in petite cucumber sandwiches: Spread some on a piece of bread (with the crust trimmed off to make it fancy). Place thinly sliced cucumbers on top of the spread, and top it all with another piece of crustless bread to make cucumber tea sandwiches. And consider pairing this classic spread with other Derby Day favorites like mini hot browns , and mint julep s or other  Kentucky Derby cocktails .