Best Kraft Pimento Cheese Spread Recipe Copycat

Craving that distinct, creamy, tangy goodness of Kraft Pimento Spread but struggling to find it on store shelves or simply wanting a fresher, homemade version? You’re not alone. Many fans miss this classic spread or desire more control over the ingredients in their pimento cheese. Navigating the world of copycat recipes can be tricky, often resulting in spreads that are too dry, too bland, or just not quite right.

Making a delicious Kraft Pimento Spread recipe copycat involves blending softened cream cheese and mayonnaise with seasonings, then folding in sharp cheddar cheese and drained pimentos before chilling. This easy homemade pimento cheese recipe captures the essence of the beloved original Kraft cheese spread, offering a creamy texture and familiar tangy flavor perfect for dips or appetizers.

This guide cuts through the confusion, providing a tried-and-true copycat kraft pimento spread recipe that hits all the right notes. We’ll delve into the essential ingredients, step-by-step instructions, tips for perfect texture, and creative ways to enjoy your creation. Plus, we’ll address those nagging questions about the original Kraft spread’s availability. Get ready to whip up a batch of the best homemade pimento cheese spread you’ve ever tasted!

Key Facts:
* Classic Base: Many pimento cheese recipes, including Kraft-inspired ones, start with a blend of cream cheese and cheddar cheese for a creamy, tangy foundation. (Source: Multiple recipe sites including Kraft Heinz, Cookie and Kate)
* Pimento Power: Pimentos are sweet cherry peppers, essential for the signature flavor and color, typically used chopped and well-drained. (Source: General food knowledge, Cookie and Kate)
* Texture Matters: Using freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese instead of pre-shredded yields a superior, creamier texture as pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents. (Source: Cookie and Kate)
* Serving Versatility: Pimento cheese is incredibly versatile, commonly served as a dip with crackers or vegetables, a spread for sandwiches, or even incorporated into hot dishes. (Source: Food with Roots, Kraft Heinz)
* Availability Buzz: Discussions about Kraft Pimento Spread being discontinued or hard to find are common online, driving interest in homemade copycat recipes. (Source: Pitchfork Foodie Farms user comments)

What Makes the Original Kraft Pimento Cheese Spread a Classic?

The original Kraft Pimento Cheese Spread holds a special place in many hearts and kitchens, primarily due to its distinct creamy texture and mild, yet recognizable tangy flavor profile. It masterfully combines processed cheese, vibrant pimentos, and a specific blend of seasonings into a smooth, easily spreadable consistency. While the exact recipe remains a closely guarded Kraft secret, its widespread popularity turned it into a benchmark for pimento cheese lovers.

Its appeal lies not just in taste and texture, but also in nostalgia and convenience. For decades, it was a readily available staple for quick snacks, simple sandwiches, and party appetizers. This brand recognition and consistent quality made it a go-to choice, establishing it as a classic American cheese spread and a flavor many seek to replicate at home, especially given fluctuating availability. The unique character of the Kraft Pimento Cheese Spread distinguishes it even within the broader category of pimento cheese, a beloved Southern staple with a rich history.

What Are the Ingredients in Kraft Pimento Cheese Spread?

While Kraft’s exact formula is proprietary, the listed ingredients on packaging and common knowledge about similar processed cheese spreads suggest it includes processed cheese (like cheddar), chopped pimentos, water, whey, milk protein concentrate, and potentially ingredients like vinegar, sugar, salt, and various stabilizers or emulsifiers. These components work together to create the spread’s signature smooth texture, tangy taste, and long shelf life.

Inferring from copycat recipes and other Kraft cheese products, a base likely involving American or cheddar cheese blended with binding agents and flavor enhancers is standard. The pimentos provide the characteristic flecks of red and sweet pepper notes. Understanding these likely components helps home cooks approximate the flavor and texture when developing their own kraft pimento spread recipe.

Why Seek a Homemade Kraft Pimento Spread Recipe?

Home cooks often seek a Kraft Pimento Spread recipe copycat primarily for fresher flavor, better control over ingredients, and sometimes due to difficulty finding the original product or concerns about its availability. Making it at home allows for several advantages:

• Ingredient Quality: You can choose high-quality sharp cheddar, preferred mayonnaise (like Duke’s, a Southern favorite often cited), and avoid preservatives or stabilizers found in commercial spreads.
• Customization: Easily adjust spice levels (adding jalapeños or cayenne), tanginess (varying vinegar), sweetness, or incorporate add-ins like onions or bacon.
• Freshness: Homemade versions often boast a brighter, fresher taste compared to shelf-stable products.
• Availability & Cost: The original Kraft Pimento Spread can be difficult to locate consistently in all regions, and prices online can be high. Making it yourself bypasses these issues.
• Dietary Needs: You can tailor the recipe to fit specific dietary preferences, potentially using lower-fat ingredients (though results may vary).

These factors drive the popularity of homemade pimento cheese recipes designed to emulate the classic Kraft style.

How Do You Make the Best Kraft Pimento Spread Recipe Copycat?

To make a fantastic Kraft Pimento Spread copycat, thoroughly blend 8 oz of softened cream cheese with about 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise, 1 teaspoon of white vinegar, and seasonings (like garlic powder, onion powder, a pinch of sugar, salt, and pepper) until smooth. Gently fold in approximately 2 cups of freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese and a 4 oz jar of well-drained, chopped pimentos. For optimal flavor melding, chill the spread for at least 2 hours before serving.

This method focuses on creating a creamy base first, then incorporating the textured elements (cheese and pimentos) without overmixing, which helps mimic the consistency of the original. Using quality ingredients, particularly freshly grated sharp cheddar and allowing sufficient chill time, are key steps in achieving that sought-after kraft pimento spread recipe taste and texture at home. It’s an easy dip or appetizer made in minutes (plus chilling time!).

Essential Ingredients for Your Copycat Spread

Key ingredients for achieving a flavor profile similar to Kraft Pimento Spread include softened cream cheese, sharp cheddar cheese, drained pimentos, mayonnaise, a touch of vinegar for tang, and basic seasonings. Here’s a typical breakdown for a successful copycat:

• Cream Cheese: 1 package (8 oz) full-fat cream cheese, softened to room temperature. This provides the essential creamy base. Some recipes might use Neufchâtel or low-fat, but full-fat yields the richest result.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups (about 8 oz) freshly grated sharp or extra-sharp cheddar cheese. Avoid pre-shredded bags. The sharper the cheddar, the closer the tang to classic pimento cheese flavors.
• Pimentos: 1 jar (4 oz) diced pimentos, drained very well. Patting them dry with a paper towel helps prevent a watery spread.
• Mayonnaise: 2-4 tablespoons. A quality mayonnaise like Duke’s is often recommended for Southern authenticity, but use your favorite. This adds richness and helps bind the spread.
• White Vinegar: 1 teaspoon (or to taste). Adds crucial tanginess, mimicking the profile of many commercial spreads.
• Seasonings:
  • 1/4 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon Onion Powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon Salt (adjust to taste, considering cheese saltiness)
  • 1/8 teaspoon Black Pepper
  • Optional: Pinch of sugar (some find this balances the tang, mimicking Kraft)
  • Optional: Pinch of Cayenne Pepper for a slight kick.

Tip: Using room temperature cream cheese is crucial for a smooth, lump-free base when mixing.

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

Making this homemade pimento cheese recipe is straightforward. Follow these steps for a delicious Kraft-style spread:

1. Prepare Ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese is fully softened to room temperature. Grate the sharp cheddar cheese using the large holes of a box grater. Open the jar of pimentos and drain them thoroughly, pressing gently or patting with paper towels to remove excess liquid. Chop if they are whole or sliced.
2. Create the Base: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, white vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and any optional sugar or cayenne. Use a hand mixer on low speed or a sturdy spatula to beat these ingredients together until completely smooth and well combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
3. Incorporate Cheese and Pimentos: Add the freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese and the drained, chopped pimentos to the cream cheese mixture. Switch to a spatula or spoon. Gently fold the cheese and pimentos into the creamy base until just combined. Avoid overmixing; you want to retain some texture from the grated cheese and pimento pieces.
4. Chill: Transfer the pimento cheese spread to an airtight container. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. Chilling is essential for the flavors to meld together properly and for the spread to firm up to the ideal consistency.
5. Serve: Stir the chilled spread briefly before serving with your favorite crackers, celery sticks, bread, or as part of other recipes.

Tips for Achieving the Perfect Texture and Flavor

For the best Kraft copycat texture, start with room temperature cream cheese for smoothness and use freshly grated sharp cheddar to avoid the dryness of pre-shredded varieties. Mix the base ingredients until smooth, then gently fold in the cheese and pimentos by hand to maintain some desirable texture. Chilling thoroughly is crucial to meld flavors and achieve the right consistency.

Here are more tips for refining your creamy pimento cheese:

• Cheese Choice: While sharp cheddar is standard, experimenting with a mix (like sharp and medium cheddar, or adding a touch of smoked cheddar) can add complexity. Just ensure you grate it yourself.
• Pimento Prep: Ensure pimentos are very well-drained. Excess moisture can make the spread watery. Chop them finely if you prefer smaller pieces throughout.
• Mixing Method: Using a hand mixer for the cream cheese base ensures smoothness. However, fold in the cheddar and pimentos gently with a spatula. Overmixing with a machine can break down the cheese shreds too much, leading to a pasty texture.
• Taste and Adjust: Before chilling, taste the mixture. Adjust seasonings as needed – more salt, pepper, a touch more vinegar for tang, or a pinch of cayenne for heat. Remember flavors intensify slightly as it chills.
• Chill Time: Don’t skimp on chilling. At least 2 hours allows the spread to firm up and flavors to deepen significantly. Overnight is even better.
• Mayonnaise Matters: The type of mayonnaise can subtly affect flavor. Use one you enjoy the taste of on its own.

Storage and Shelf Life

Store homemade pimento cheese spread in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly stored, it should stay fresh and delicious for up to one week. Always use a clean utensil when serving to prevent contamination and extend its shelf life.

Can you freeze pimento cheese? Freezing is generally not recommended. The cream cheese and mayonnaise base can separate upon thawing, resulting in a grainy or watery texture that is significantly different from the desired creamy consistency. For the best quality, enjoy your homemade pimento cheese spread within a week of making it.

Simple Recipe Variations

Once you’ve mastered the basic Kraft pimento spread recipe copycat, feel free to experiment! Here are a few simple variations:

• Spicy Pimento Cheese: Fold in 1-2 tablespoons of finely chopped pickled jalapeños (drained well) or add 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper along with the other seasonings.
• Savory Add-ins: Mix in 1/4 cup of crumbled cooked bacon, 2-3 chopped green onions (scallions), or 1/4 cup chopped black or green olives for extra flavor dimensions.
• Different Peppers: Swap the pimentos for an equal amount of drained, chopped roasted red peppers for a slightly smokier, sweeter flavor.
• Smoked Paprika: Add 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika to the seasonings for a subtle smoky depth.
• Worcestershire Sauce: A dash (about 1/2 teaspoon) of Worcestershire sauce can add umami complexity.
• Herbaceous Twist: Incorporate a tablespoon of fresh chopped chives or parsley.

Start with small amounts of add-ins and adjust to your preference. These variations allow you to customize your homemade pimento cheese easily.

What Are the Best Ways to Use Pimento Cheese Spread?

Pimento cheese spread is incredibly versatile. The most popular ways to use it include serving it as a cold dip with crackers, celery sticks, or pita chips; spreading it generously on white bread for classic pimento cheese sandwiches (crusts on or off!); or using it as a flavorful topping for burgers and hot dogs.

Beyond the basics, this delightful spread shines in various culinary applications. It makes a fantastic filling for deviled eggs or stuffed jalapeños. You can melt it into grilled cheese sandwiches for an extra gooey, tangy kick, swirl it into grits or mashed potatoes, spread it on flatbreads before baking, or even incorporate it into savory baked goods like biscuits or scones. Thinking creatively about recipes using Kraft pimento cheese spread (or your homemade version) opens up a world of delicious possibilities.

Classic Serving Suggestions

The enduring appeal of pimento cheese lies in its simple yet satisfying classic presentations. Here are the most beloved ways to serve your homemade spread:

• With Crackers: Offer a bowl of pimento cheese alongside an assortment of crackers – buttery rounds, woven wheat crackers (like Triscuits), or water crackers are all excellent choices. This is the quintessential pimento cheese dip setup.
• Vegetable Sticks: For a lighter option, serve with crisp celery sticks, carrot sticks, bell pepper strips, or cucumber slices. The cool crunch contrasts nicely with the creamy spread.
• Pimento Cheese Sandwiches: Spread thickly between two slices of soft white bread. Some prefer crusts removed for tea sandwiches, while others enjoy it as is. A true Southern classic.
• Grilled Pimento Cheese: Elevate the classic grilled cheese by using pimento cheese as the filling. Butter the outside of the bread and grill until golden brown and the cheese is melted and gooey. Absolutely decadent.

These simple methods highlight the delicious flavor of the easy cheese dip or appetizer without much fuss.

Creative Recipe Ideas Featuring Pimento Cheese

Ready to move beyond crackers and sandwiches? Pimento cheese adds a unique tangy, cheesy flavor to numerous dishes. Consider these creative recipes using pimento cheese:

• Pimento Cheese Burger Topping: Skip the standard slice and slather a generous amount of pimento cheese on your grilled burger patty during the last minute of cooking or just before serving.
• Pimento Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers: Halve sweet mini bell peppers, remove seeds, and fill generously with pimento cheese. Serve cold as an appetizer or bake/broil briefly until softened and bubbly.
• Pimento Cheese Grits: Stir a large dollop of pimento cheese into hot, cooked grits for an instant creamy, cheesy upgrade. Perfect for breakfast or as a side dish.
• Pimento Cheese Flatbread: Spread pimento cheese thinly over flatbread or pizza dough, add desired toppings (like crumbled bacon, caramelized onions, or jalapeños), and bake until golden and bubbly.
• Pimento Cheese Deviled Eggs: Mix pimento cheese into your standard deviled egg yolk filling for a flavorful twist on another party favorite.
• Pimento Cheese Biscuits: Fold pimento cheese into your favorite biscuit dough before baking for cheesy, savory results.
• Pimento Cheese Mac and Cheese: Incorporate pimento cheese into your cheese sauce for macaroni and cheese to add extra tang and depth.

Using pimento cheese in cooking adds instant flavor and richness, making it a fantastic ingredient for various pimento cheese appetizers and main courses.

Is Kraft Pimento Cheese Spread Discontinued and Where Can You Buy It?

The availability of Kraft Pimento Cheese Spread is inconsistent and often leads to speculation about whether it’s discontinued. While Kraft hasn’t made a widespread official announcement of permanent discontinuation for all markets, it is frequently difficult to find in many grocery stores, and reports of it being unavailable are common. Its status might be regional, seasonal, or simply due to shifting production priorities.

If you’re searching where can I buy Kraft Pimento Cheese Spread, your best bets are often large online retailers like Amazon or checking the websites of major supermarket chains (like Walmart or regional stores) for potential stock, though availability varies greatly. Be prepared for potentially higher prices, especially online, possibly reflecting scarcity (Why is Kraft Pimento Cheese Spread so expensive is a common query linked to its limited availability). Given these challenges, making a homemade kraft pimento spread recipe remains a reliable alternative.

Understanding Kraft Pimento Spread Availability

Kraft Pimento Spread availability is notoriously inconsistent, varying significantly by region and even store to store. Many consumers report it disappearing from shelves for extended periods, leading to frequent online searches and forum discussions asking, “Kraft discontinued it?” or confirming its absence. While it sometimes reappears, particularly seasonally (like around holidays, according to some user reports), it’s not reliably stocked year-round everywhere.

This inconsistent supply fuels the perception of discontinuation. It might be available through specific distributors, online platforms like Amazon (often at inflated prices), or sporadically in large chain supermarkets. Factors contributing could include supply chain issues, changing consumer demand influencing production decisions, or a strategic focus on other products. The bottom line is that finding the original Kraft cheese spread consistently can be a frustrating search.

Potential Places to Purchase Kraft Pimento Spread

Finding the original Kraft Pimento Spread requires some searching, as its availability is often limited. Here are potential places to check:

• Online Retailers:
  • Amazon.com: Often has listings, but check seller reputation and be aware prices can be significantly higher than in-store. Availability might fluctuate.
  • Walmart.com: Check their website for availability for pickup or delivery from local stores, or potentially for direct shipping.
  • Target.com: Similar to Walmart, check online for local store inventory.
• Large Grocery Chains:
  • Check major national or large regional supermarket chains (e.g., Kroger, Publix, H-E-B, Safeway depending on your area). Use their websites or apps to search for the product in nearby stores.
• Specialty Stores: Occasionally, smaller or specialty food stores might carry it, though this is less common.

Key Takeaway: Always check online inventory checkers for local stores before making a trip, as stock levels change frequently. Finding where to buy Kraft pimento spread often involves checking multiple sources.

Alternatives if Kraft Pimento Spread is Unavailable

If Kraft Pimento Spread proves elusive, excellent alternatives include Philadelphia Pimento Cream Cheese Spread, Palmetto Cheese (a popular Southern brand), various other regional or store brands, or whipping up your own delicious homemade version using a copycat recipe.

Here’s a closer look at alternatives:

• Philadelphia Pimento Cream Cheese Spread: Made by the same parent company (Kraft Heinz), this offers a similar flavor profile built on a cream cheese base. It’s generally more widely available.
• Palmetto Cheese: A well-regarded brand, particularly in the South, known for its quality ingredients and classic pimento cheese flavor. It often comes in original, jalapeño, and bacon varieties.
• Other Store-Bought Brands: Many grocery stores have their own private label pimento cheese spreads. Quality and flavor vary, so you might need to try a few to find a favorite. Look for brands like Price’s, Stan’s, or regional favorites.
• Homemade Copycat Recipe: As detailed earlier in this post, making your own provides the ultimate control over flavor, texture, and ingredients, ensuring you always have access to delicious pimento cheese spread tailored to your liking. This is often the best store-bought pimento cheese alternative.

Don’t despair if you can’t find the original Kraft jar; these alternatives ensure you can still enjoy the tangy, cheesy goodness of pimento spread.

FAQs About Kraft Pimento Spread Recipe

What are the main ingredients in a Kraft pimento spread copycat recipe?

The core ingredients typically include softened full-fat cream cheese, freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese, well-drained chopped pimentos, mayonnaise, a touch of white vinegar for tang, and basic seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

How is this homemade recipe different from the original Kraft spread?

Homemade versions generally use fresher, less processed ingredients (like freshly grated cheese vs. processed cheese) and lack the stabilizers or preservatives found in the shelf-stable original. This often results in a brighter flavor but potentially a slightly different texture and shorter shelf life.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese or mayonnaise?

Yes, you can substitute low-fat cream cheese (Neufchâtel) or light mayonnaise, but be aware it will affect the final texture and richness. The spread might be slightly less creamy or flavorful compared to using full-fat versions.

How do I make my pimento cheese spread spicier?

To add heat, incorporate finely minced pickled jalapeños (1-2 tablespoons, drained), a pinch or two of cayenne pepper, or a dash of your favorite hot sauce into the mixture. Adjust the amount based on your desired spice level.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, the core ingredients (cream cheese, cheddar cheese, pimentos, mayonnaise, vinegar, basic spices) are naturally gluten-free. Always double-check the labels on your specific ingredients if you have severe sensitivities, especially mayonnaise or spice blends.

What type of cheddar cheese is best for pimento spread?

Sharp or extra-sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated from a block, is highly recommended. The sharpness provides the characteristic tang, and grating it yourself avoids anti-caking agents in pre-shredded cheese, yielding a creamier texture.

Why does my pimento cheese separate or look oily?

This can happen if the mayonnaise separates (sometimes due to temperature changes or type used), if oil leeches from the cheese (more common with lower quality cheese or if overmixed), or if there’s too much liquid from improperly drained pimentos. Using room temperature ingredients and gentle mixing helps prevent this.

Can I make this pimento cheese spread ahead of time?

Absolutely! Pimento cheese actually benefits from being made ahead. Chilling for at least 2 hours is recommended, but making it a day in advance allows the flavors to meld even more deeply. Store it covered in the refrigerator.

What’s the difference between pimentos and roasted red peppers?

Pimentos are a specific type of sweet cherry pepper, typically small, round, and heart-shaped with mild flavor. Roasted red peppers are usually larger varieties like bell peppers that have been roasted, giving them a smokier, softer texture and slightly different flavor profile. While you can substitute, pimentos provide the traditional taste.

Do they still make Kraft pimento cheese spread?

Its production seems inconsistent. While not officially declared discontinued everywhere, it’s frequently hard to find in many stores, leading many to believe it’s unavailable or only produced sporadically or regionally. Availability checks on retailer websites are advised.

Summary: Your Go-To Guide for Kraft-Style Pimento Cheese

Creating a delicious homemade Kraft pimento spread is achievable and rewarding, especially given the inconsistent availability of the original. This guide has equipped you with a reliable easy pimento cheese recipe, emphasizing the importance of quality ingredients like softened cream cheese and freshly grated sharp cheddar, proper technique (creaming the base, folding in solids), and adequate chilling time. We’ve explored the classic appeal of the Kraft original, provided tips for perfect texture and flavor, offered storage advice, and suggested numerous ways—both classic and creative—to enjoy your copycat Kraft spread.

Whether you’re serving it as a simple dip, a classic sandwich filling, or incorporating it into more elaborate dishes, this homemade pimento cheese guide ensures you can satisfy those cravings anytime. While finding the original Kraft jar might be a challenge, mastering this copycat recipe puts that beloved tangy, cheesy goodness firmly back within your reach.

What’s your favorite way to enjoy pimento cheese spread? Share your thoughts or questions in the comments below! If you found this recipe helpful, consider sharing it with fellow pimento cheese enthusiasts.