Classic Benedictine Spread

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Cool, creamy, and packed with fresh cucumber flavor, Benedictine spread is a classic Southern recipe that deserves a spot at every spring brunch, shower, tea party, or Kentucky Derby gathering. This old-fashioned spread is made with cream cheese, crisp cucumber, and just a touch of fresh herbs mixed in for its signature pale green color.

Originally created by Jennie Carter Benedict in Louisville, Benedictine spread has been a Southern favorite for more than a century. Traditionally served on soft white bread as tea sandwiches, it is also delicious with crackers, celery sticks, crostini, or as a dip for fresh vegetables.

The Best Southern Benedictine Spread

If you have never had Benedictine spread before, think of it as a cucumber cream cheese spread with just enough onion and seasoning to make it irresistible. It is simple, refreshing, and perfect for warm-weather entertaining.

This recipe stays true to the traditional version while modernizing it slightly by incorporating fresh herbs into the spread. Older versions of Benedictine spread call for green food coloring to be added to achieve that pale green color.

This Benedictine spread is creamy, fresh, and full of Southern charm. It’s the kind of simple recipe that always disappears first at the party.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make in just 15 minutes
• Perfect for tea sandwiches, parties, and brunches
• Light and refreshing for spring and summer
• Can be made ahead of time
• Naturally vegetarian

Ingredients

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 medium cucumber, peeled and grated
• 1 teaspoon grated sweet onion
• 2 to 3 tablespoons sour cream (use more to make the consistency thinner)
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, finely chopped
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper

Pro Tip: English cucumber works especially well because it has fewer seeds and less water, but a regular garden cucumber will also work.

How to Make Benedictine Spread

1. Peel and grate the cucumber. You can leave a little bit of the peel if you want to add more color and texture.
2. Place the grated cucumber in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels and squeeze out as much liquid as possible. This is important so the spread does not become watery.
3. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sour cream, and lemon juice until smooth.
4. Add the grated cucumber, sweet onion, chives, dill, salt, and pepper.
5. Stir until everything is fully combined.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving so the flavors can blend.

How to Serve Benedictine Spread

Benedictine spread is incredibly versatile. Here are some of my favorite ways to serve it:

• Spread on soft white bread for classic tea sandwiches
• Served with buttery crackers
• Scooped into celery sticks
• Spread on cucumber slices
• Added to crostini or toasted baguette slices
• Served on a tray with fresh vegetables

For traditional tea sandwiches, spread the Benedictine between slices of soft white bread, trim off the crusts, and cut into triangles or small squares.

Tips for the Best Benedictine Spread

• Be sure to squeeze all the liquid from the cucumber. Too much moisture can make the spread thin.
• Let the cream cheese soften before mixing so the spread turns out smooth and creamy.
• Chill the spread before serving for the best flavor.
• If you like a stronger onion flavor, add a little extra grated onion.

Storage

Store leftover Benedictine spread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Stir before serving if any liquid separates.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Benedictine spread ahead of time?

Yes. Benedictine spread can be made up to 2 days in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

How long does Benedictine spread last?

It will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.

Can I freeze Benedictine spread?

Freezing is not recommended because the texture of the cream cheese and cucumber can become watery after thawing.

More Classic Southern Appetizers

If you’re building a spread for a shower, brunch, or garden party, Benedictine is just the beginning. To plan the ultimate party menu, be sure to check out my complete guide to Southern Vegetarian Appetizers: 30+ Easy, Crowd-Pleasing Recipes for a massive collection of Southern starters.

To create a beautiful appetizer board right now, try pairing this cucumber spread with these other Southern favorites:

• Southern Pimento Cheese: Often called the “pate of the South,” this creamy blend of sharp cheddar, pimento peppers, and mayo is the perfect companion to Benedictine. You can serve it on the same platter with crackers or celery.
• Classic Deviled Eggs: No Southern gathering is complete without a tray of deviled eggs. Whether you like them traditional with a dash of paprika or spiked with a little pickle relish, they offer a savory protein hit that balances the freshness of the cucumber.
• Vegetarian Bisquick Sausage Balls: For a savory twist to your appetizer spread these sausage balls made with vegetarian sausage offer a classic Southern bite.
• Creamy Jalapeno Dip: For a spicy twist to your appetizer spread, this smooth and creamy dip brings just the right amount of jalapeno heat. It’s an easy, make-ahead crowd-pleaser that adds a vibrant pop of flavor to any Southern gathering.