Dairy, Cheese Spread | Lacto Vegetarian Gluten Free

Cream Cheese

N/A Allergens: Milk
cream cheese

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family N/A
  • Primary Cuisine American, European
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Milk, Cream

The Forktionary Angle

"The humble yet indispensable dairy delight, bringing rich creaminess and a subtle tang to both sweet confections and savory spreads."

Definition

A soft, mild, unripened cheese made from milk and cream, characterized by its smooth texture and slightly tangy flavor.

Sensory Profile

TasteTangy, Creamy, Rich, Mildly Sweet
TextureSmooth, Spreadable, Velvety, Dense
AromaMilky, Slightly Acidic
AcidityLow-Medium

Technical Metrics

Fat Content

Typically 33-35%

Ideal Temperature for Blending

Room temperature for smooth results

Shelf Life (Unopened)

Up to 2-3 weeks past "best by" date

Nutrition Facts

Per 28g (2 tbsp)
Calories342
Total Fat34 g
Saturated Fat21 g
Trans Fat1.5 g
Cholesterol108 mg
Protein6.1 g
Total Carbohydrate4.1 g
Dietary Fiber0 g
Total Sugars3.2 g
Calcium98 mg
Iron0.4 mg
Potassium147 mg

Chef’s Secret

For smooth incorporation into cheesecakes or frostings, ensure cream cheese is at room temperature. If it's too cold, it will lump when mixed.

Substitutions

Best Match

Mascarpone Cheese

1:1

Very rich and creamy, excellent for desserts, but less tangy. May be higher in fat.

Neufchâtel Cheese

1:1

Lower fat and slightly crumblier than cream cheese, but offers a similar tangy flavor.

Greek Yogurt (strained)

1:1

Tangier and lower in fat. Excellent for dips and sauces but less stable for baking.

Silken Tofu (blended with lemon juice and a pinch of salt)

1:1

A dairy-free alternative for creamy textures in savory or sweet dishes, requiring flavor adjustments.

Buying Guide

Available in blocks or tubs, full fat or reduced fat. Always check the expiration date.

Flavor Pairings

Bagels Lox Berries Cake Brownies Herbs Garlic Onions Pretzels

Recipes Using Cream Cheese

Side Dishes Main Ingredient Equipment Preparation

100 Broccoli Casserole

Elevate your weeknight dinner with this creamy, cheesy 100 Broccoli Casserole! A delicious alternative to heavy cheese casseroles, this recipe features tender broccoli florets in a luscious sauce, topped with golden-brown cracker crumbs. Easy to make and guaranteed to be a family favorite!

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Casseroles Course Casseroles One Dish Meal

10 Layer Poor Man's Lasagna Casserole

This crowd-pleasing 10-layer lasagna casserole is a budget-friendly recipe that's perfect for family dinners and potlucks! A comforting blend of seasoned ground beef, creamy cheese sauce, and perfectly cooked macaroni, topped with melted Mexican cheese. This recipe makes a generous amount, easily serving 10-12, so feel free to halve it for a smaller crowd. Prepare to be amazed – it's even better than it sounds!

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Occasion Dips Pork Sausage Pork

3 Ingredient Chip Dip

This incredibly easy and delicious 3-ingredient sausage dip is perfect for game day or any party! Made in your slow cooker, crockpot, or even a rice cooker, this recipe is incredibly versatile. Simply combine sausage, cream cheese, and Rotel for a warm, cheesy, and spicy dip that's sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Easily scalable – start with 1, 1, 1 and increase as needed!

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Time To Make Easy Beginner Cook Served Cold

4 In 1 Creamy Custard Drizzle Dip Dressing Or Sauce

This incredibly versatile custard recipe from the Junior League of Mobile, AL's '1 of a Kind' cookbook is a flavor powerhouse! Use it as a creamy dip, a luscious dessert sauce, a tangy salad dressing, or get creative and discover your own uses. This recipe is perfect for company dinners or everyday family meals. The possibilities are endless!

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Vegetables Dietary Pizza Main Ingredient

Absolutely Yummy Vegetable Pizza

Recreate the magic of a beloved grocery store deli pizza! This recipe captures the irresistible flavor of a discontinued favorite, bringing you a veggie-loaded pizza experience that's just as good, if not better. Get ready for a crispy crust topped with a creamy ranch base, a vibrant array of fresh vegetables, and melted cheese perfection. Easy to make and guaranteed to impress!

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Dips Time To Make Californian Sauces

Alaskan Smoked Salmon Sauce

Impress your guests with this quick, easy, and elegant Alaskan Smoked Salmon Sauce! Adapted from a popular hors d'oeuvre recipe, this creamy and flavorful sauce is perfect for parties or a special weeknight dinner. Ready in just 10 minutes, it's surprisingly sophisticated and best served chilled for a truly memorable taste experience.

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Kid Friendly Low In Something Sauces Equipment

Alfredo Sauce From The Pantry

This incredibly easy Alfredo sauce is ready in 10 minutes using pantry staples! Garlic adds a delicious punch, making it a family favorite (even picky eaters approve!). While not traditionally authentic, this creamy, dreamy sauce is perfect for a weeknight pasta dinner. Get ready to impress your family with minimal effort!

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Course Crab Served Cold Time To Make

Amazing Crab Stuffed Pasta Shells

Craving a decadent and impressive Easter dinner? These Amazing Crab Stuffed Pasta Shells are the answer! I perfected this recipe by combining the best elements from 10 different recipes, resulting in a dish that's incredibly flavorful and satisfying. Each jumbo pasta shell is brimming with a creamy blend of crab, shrimp, and scallions, creating a truly unforgettable taste experience. Pro-tip: Consider using smaller pasta shells for easier portion control, or simply cut the larger ones in half before serving – these are incredibly filling!

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Cakes North American Time To Make Cakes

Angel Food Delight

This incredibly easy and surprisingly delicious dessert is a delightful twist on classic angel food cake! Inspired by a magazine recipe, this "Angel Food Delight" is light, refreshing, and incredibly adaptable. The creamy cream cheese base, fluffy angel food cake, and sweet pie filling create a harmonious blend of flavors that will impress your guests. Perfect for potlucks, parties, or a simple weeknight treat. Customize it with your favorite pie filling – the possibilities are endless! This recipe takes a little chill time to allow the flavors to truly meld, resulting in a dessert that's both rich and light.

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Dietary Apples Dinner Party North American

Annas Apple Ginger Pecan Tart

Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of autumn with Anna Olsen's irresistible Apple Ginger Pecan Tart! This recipe, adapted from the Splenda website, features a buttery, flaky crust and a spiced apple filling perfectly balanced with crunchy pecans and a hint of warming ginger. Sweetened with Splenda, this tart is a delightful treat for any occasion, whether served warm, at room temperature, or chilled. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this easy-to-follow recipe!

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60 Minutes Or Less Bar Cookies 60 Minutes Or Less Fruit

Apple Oat Cheesecake Bars

Decadent Apple Oat Cheesecake Bars! This irresistible recipe combines a buttery oat crust, creamy cheesecake filling, and a sweet apple topping for the ultimate fall dessert. Easy to make and perfect for sharing (or not!), these bars are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Get ready for a taste sensation!

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Number Of Servings Occasion 15 Minutes Or Less Number Of Servings

Artichoke Spinach Dip From Olive Garden

Recreate the irresistible flavor of Olive Garden's famous Artichoke Spinach Dip with this easy-to-follow recipe! This creamy, cheesy dip is perfect for parties, game nights, or a cozy night in. Made with fresh spinach, artichoke hearts, and a blend of creamy cheeses, it's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Serve with your favorite chips, crackers, or crusty bread for dipping.

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Appetizers Eggs Dairy Christmas Lunch

Autumn Creamy Pumpkin Pie Dip

Indulge in the cozy flavors of fall with this incredibly creamy and smooth pumpkin pie dip! Spiced perfectly with warm pumpkin pie spice, this dip is the ultimate autumn treat. Serve with crisp red and green apple slices and your favorite ginger cookies (Dutch or Swedish are fantastic!) for a delightful dessert or snack that's sure to impress. Easy to make and even easier to devour!

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Taste Mood Cuisine Superbowl Lunch

Bacon Beer Cheese Dip Aka Game Day Dip

Score a touchdown with this insanely delicious Bacon Beer Cheese Dip! Perfect for game day, parties, or any occasion when you need a crowd-pleasing appetizer. This easy, no-chop recipe is ready in under 30 minutes and guaranteed to be a hit with everyone. Get ready for a flavor explosion of smoky bacon, creamy cheese, and rich beer!

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Time To Make Course 30 Minutes Or Less For Large Groups

Bacon Infused Maple Cupcakes

Indulge in the irresistible combination of sweet and salty with our Bacon Infused Maple Cupcakes! These decadent cupcakes feature tender, moist cake infused with smoky bacon, perfectly complemented by a rich maple cream cheese frosting. A delightful treat for breakfast, brunch, or any time you crave a unique and delicious cupcake experience. Get the recipe now!

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Eggs Dairy Dietary Course Number Of Servings

Bacon Egg Avocado Sandwich Paula Deen

Indulge in this decadent and easy Bacon, Egg, and Avocado Toast recipe, inspired by Paula Deen! This Southern-style breakfast, brunch, lunch, or even dinner sensation is quick to make and bursting with flavor. Crispy bacon, perfectly fried eggs, creamy avocado, and a zesty cream cheese spread come together on perfectly toasted bread for a truly satisfying meal. Get ready to elevate your toast game!

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Fruit Occasion Time To Make No Cook

Bagel Transformation

Elevate your breakfast with this easy, 10-minute Bagel Transformation! Forget boring bagels – this recipe features a sweet and satisfying apple cinnamon raisin topping that will become your new favorite. A perfect quick and delicious treat for any time of day!

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Main Ingredient Main Ingredient Cheese Savory

Baked Broccoli With Blue Cheese Sauce

Elevate your broccoli game with this decadent baked broccoli recipe featuring a creamy, tangy blue cheese sauce! Inspired by Maytag Dairy Farm, this recipe uses high-quality blue cheese (Maytag preferred!) for an unforgettable flavor experience. Perfect as a side dish or a light vegetarian meal. Get ready for a cheesy, comforting explosion of flavor in just 70 minutes!

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