Cut the ripe avocado in half and remove the pit. Scoop the flesh into a large bowl and mash with a fork until you reach a paste consistency.
Finely chop the garlic clove and small onion.
Mix the chopped garlic and onion into the avocado paste. Add pepper, a generous pinch of salt, curry powder, and herbs de Provence. Stir for 1 minute until well combined.
Stir in the cream cheese until fully combined.
If using the fresh chilli pepper, finely chop it and stir it in. Add more than you think you need, as the cream cheese will mute the heat.
Refrigerate in a covered bowl for 2 to 3 hours so the flavors blend. Serve chilled.