Cream Cheese Pickles Marci’s Farmhouse Kitchen
Cream Cheese Pickles Marci’s Farmhouse Kitchen is a easy American recipe that serves 6. 120 calories per serving. Recipe by Marci's Farmhouse Kitchen on YouTube.
Prep: 15 min | Cook: PT0M | Total: 20 min
Cost: $9.50 total, $1.58 per serving
Ingredients
- 12 pieces Dill Pickle Spears (Vlasic or any crunchy dill spears, keep the juice in the jar)
- 8 oz Cream Cheese (Softened to room temperature for easy spreading)
- 4.5 oz Dried Beef (Cured dried beef, usually sold in a small jar; can be substituted with ham, turkey, or prosciutto)
Instructions
Dry the Pickles
Remove each dill pickle spear from the jar and pat it dry with a paper towel. Do not rinse; keep the surface a little wet with pickle juice for flavor.
Time: PT3M
Prepare the Dried Beef
Open the jar of dried beef and lay the strips on a plate. If the pieces are large, cut them in half lengthwise so they will wrap easily around a pickle.
Time: PT2M
Spread Cream Cheese on Beef
Using a butter knife or the flat side of your kitchen knife, spread a thin layer of softened cream cheese over each piece of dried beef, reaching all the way to the edges.
Time: PT5M
Wrap the Pickles
Take a cream‑cheese‑coated strip of dried beef and wrap it around a pickle spear, covering the entire length. Press gently to adhere. Repeat for all spears, using a second strip of beef on the opposite side if needed for full coverage.
Time: PT4M
Slice and Serve
Arrange the wrapped pickles on a serving plate. Using a sharp knife, slice each wrapped pickle in half diagonally for bite‑size pieces. Serve immediately or keep chilled until ready.
Time: PT1M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 120
- Protein
- 6 g
- Carbohydrates
- 5 g
- Fat
- 9 g
- Fiber
- 0 g
Dietary info: Gluten‑free, Low‑carb, High‑protein
Allergens: Dairy, Beef
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Dill Pickle Spears: Bread‑and‑butter pickles, Cornichons
- Instead of Cream Cheese: Whipped cream cheese, Neufchâtel cheese
- Instead of Dried Beef: Thin‑sliced ham, Turkey breast, Prosciutto
Equipment Needed
- Knife
- Cutting Board
- Plate
- Serving Platter (optional)
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Spread cream cheese evenly on dried beef to the edges.
- Wrap the pickle completely so no exposed pickle flesh remains.
Chef Tips from the Video
- Use a fresh dill pickle for the brightest flavor.
- For a pop of color, sprinkle a tiny pinch of chopped fresh dill on top before serving.
- If you prefer a milder meat, substitute with thin‑sliced ham or turkey.
Troubleshooting
Pickle spears are too wet and the wrap slides off.
Pat the spears dry thoroughly with paper towels before wrapping.
Cream cheese is too hard to spread.
Leave the cream cheese out at room temperature for 5‑10 minutes or microwave for 5 seconds.
Dried beef strips are too thick to wrap.
Slice the strips lengthwise to create thinner ribbons.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Freezer: Not recommended; texture of cream cheese changes.
Room temperature: Do not leave out for more than 2 hours.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Assemble the wraps up to 4 hours ahead and keep them covered in the refrigerator.
- If you need to transport, place the platter in a cooler bag to maintain chill.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of cream cheese wrapped pickles in Southern American cuisine?
Cream cheese wrapped pickles are a classic Southern party snack that originated as a simple way to combine the tang of dill pickles with the richness of cream cheese and cured meats. They became popular at potlucks and bridal showers because they are easy to make, bite‑size, and crowd‑pleasing.
How did the tradition of serving pickles wrapped in meat develop in Midwestern farm households?
Midwestern farm families often used pantry staples like dried beef, ham, and cream cheese to create quick appetizers for gatherings. The practice grew from using leftover cured meats and cream cheese to stretch ingredients and provide a protein‑rich snack during long farm work days.
What regional variations of cream cheese wrapped pickles exist in the United States?
In the South, dried beef or ham is common, while in the Northeast you might find the same concept using smoked salmon or lox. Some regions add a slice of cheese or a drizzle of honey mustard for extra flavor.
What occasions or celebrations are cream cheese wrapped pickles traditionally served at in American culture?
These bite‑size treats are popular at bridal showers, baby showers, holiday potlucks, and casual summer barbecues because they are easy to transport, serve cold, and appeal to a wide range of guests.
What authentic traditional ingredients are used for cream cheese wrapped pickles versus acceptable substitutes?
Traditionally the recipe uses dill pickles, regular cream cheese, and dried beef. Acceptable substitutes include ham, turkey, prosciutto for the meat, and whipped or Neufchâtel cheese for the cream cheese.
What other Southern or Midwestern dishes pair well with cream cheese wrapped pickles?
They pair nicely with deviled eggs, shrimp cocktail, fried green tomatoes, and a simple green salad with vinaigrette. A cold beer or sweet iced tea complements the salty‑tangy flavors.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making cream cheese wrapped pickles?
Common errors include not drying the pickles, which causes slipping; spreading cream cheese too thickly, making the wrap difficult to seal; and using meat that is too thick, which can tear the pickle. Pat the pickles dry, spread a thin even layer of cheese, and slice the meat thinly.
Why does this recipe use dried beef instead of a cooked ham slice?
Dried beef is shelf‑stable, has a concentrated savory flavor, and doesn’t require cooking, keeping the appetizer truly no‑cook. It also adds a slightly chewy texture that contrasts nicely with the crisp pickle.
Can I make cream cheese wrapped pickles ahead of time and how should I store them?
Yes, you can assemble them up to 4 hours ahead. Keep the wrapped pickles covered in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Bring them to room temperature just before serving for the best texture.
What does the YouTube channel Marci's Farmhouse Kitchen specialize in?
The YouTube channel Marci's Farmhouse Kitchen specializes in simple, home‑cooked Southern and Midwestern recipes, farm‑to‑table meals, and comforting appetizers that use everyday pantry ingredients.
How does the YouTube channel Marci's Farmhouse Kitchen's approach to Southern cooking differ from other cooking channels?
Marci's Farmhouse Kitchen focuses on storytelling, farm life anecdotes, and practical, no‑fuss techniques that emphasize comfort and hospitality, whereas many other channels prioritize high‑tech production or gourmet plating.
Last updated: August 30, 2026
