Was this page helpful?
Help improve this recipe for others.
Send this recipe to your inbox.
We'll email it straight to you - plus weekly cooking inspiration.
Ingredients
Some product links may be affiliates. If you buy through them, you're supporting the site and Pekin may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Spread
Poppy coating
Toppings & Assembly
Method
Spread
Soften the cream cheese: remove cream cheese from refrigerator 20–30 minutes before starting so it is easily workable. If short on time, microwave the block on low power for 10–12 seconds to slightly soften.
In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese and softened butter. Use a rubber spatula or electric hand mixer on low speed to blend until smooth and fluffy, about 1–2 minutes.
Fold in lemon zest, lemon juice, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning — it should be bright with a mild tang and a touch of saltiness to balance the roe.
Transfer the cream cheese mixture to a small shallow dish (about 4–5 inches diameter) or form it into a loose log on plastic wrap if you want to roll it. Smooth the top so there are no deep crevices; this gives an even surface for the poppy coating.
Poppy coating
Combine black and white poppy seeds in a small shallow bowl and stir to mix evenly.
Using a small spatula or the back of a spoon, press the sides and top of the cream cheese mound gently into the poppy seed mixture so the seeds adhere. Rotate the dish or roll the wrapped log to coat all exposed surfaces. Press firmly but gently to create an even, visible poppy crust. If coating a dish-shaped spread, sprinkle seeds onto the top and sides, pressing lightly to adhere.
Toppings & Assembly
Place the poppy-coated cream cheese on a serving board or platter. If you formed a log, unwrap and position it for easy slicing or scooping.
Spoon trout roe carefully into small mounds across the top of the cream cheese or dot the roe in 4–6 spoonfuls depending on preference. For a refined look, place roe on the top center and on a few individual crostini when plating.
Arrange toasted baguette slices or crackers around the cream cheese. If using microgreens or baby arugula, scatter a few leaves on the platter for color and a peppery contrast.
Garnish each roe mound and a few crostini with small dill sprigs. Serve immediately so the roe remains chilled and pops pleasantly when bitten.
Storage note: if not serving right away, refrigerate the cream cheese and roe separately (cover tightly). Assemble within 30 minutes of serving for best texture. Leftovers: keep covered in refrigerator up to 2 days; trout roe is best eaten fresh within 24 hours.