“The word is ‘surprising,'” one Test Kitchen pro said about this French Quarter cheese spread.

The creamy base of the spread starts withcream cheese.

Then punchy onion and garlic are added.

Southern Living French Quarter Cheese Spread on a plate ready to serve with crackers

Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

What goes best with that?Champagneat a party, of course.

To get ahead of your party prep, you might prepare this dish ahead.

Simply prepare the base and topping separately, spreading the cream cheese mixture onto a serving plate.

Southern Living French Quarter Cheese Spread ingredients

Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

Pour over the cream cheese spread before serving.

Sliced apples can add a crisp, fruity contrast.

cream cheese, softened

1Tbsp.grated sweet onion(from 1 small [4 oz.]

Southern Living French Quarter Cheese Spread whisking together the cheese mixture

Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

onion)

1/2tsp.grated freshgarlic(from 1 medium clove)

1/4cup(2 oz.

Stir in onion and garlic.

Spread mixture evenly onto a serving plate.

Southern Living French Quarter Cheese Spread cheese mixture on a platter to chill

Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

Chill, uncovered, in refrigerator until firm, about 1 hour.

Cook over medium, stirring constantly, until thickened and bubbly, 5 to 6 minutes.

Remove from heat; stir in pecans.

Southern Living French Quarter Cheese Spread letting the cheese soften on the plate

Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

Let stand until cooled slightly, about 5 minutes.

Spoon over cream cheese mixture.

Serve with buttery crackers.

Southern Living French Quarter Spread cooking the syrup mixture

Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

This spread can be made up to two days ahead for the freshest flavor.

Store leftovers for up to four days.

Southern Living French Quarter Cheese Spread stirring in the pecans

Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

Southern Living French Quarter Cheese Spread adding the topping to the cheese mixture

Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox