Forktionary

Cream Cheese Spread

N/A Dairy / Spread

Cream Cheese Spread Dairy / Spread

At a Glance

  • Category Dairy / Spread

The Forktionary Angle

"The ubiquitous, velvety base that provides a tangy richness to both sweet and savory applications, from breakfast to dessert."

Definition

A soft, mild, and creamy dairy product, typically made from milk and cream, designed to be easily spreadable on bagels, toast, or crackers.

Consistency Typically softer and more spreadable than block cream cheese, due to added stabilizers or water.
Primary Use Most commonly spread on bagels, toast, and crackers.
Storage Must be refrigerated and used within 1-2 weeks after opening.

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Cream Cheese Spread are:

Tangy mild creamy slightly sweet (if flavored)

Chef’s Secret

For a quick, rich pasta sauce, melt a dollop of cream cheese spread with a little pasta water and herbs; it emulsifies beautifully.

Best Substitutes

Mascarpone

richer); Neufchâtel cheese (, lower fat, tangier); Greek yogurt cheese (, tangier, healthier
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Choose plain for versatility or flavored for specific uses. Check fat content if desired (full fat, light, fat-free).

Culinary Pairings

Bagels smoked salmon chives fruit jams chocolate crackers vegetables

Recipes Using Cream Cheese Spread

Beef Cheese And Carrot Sandwich image 107
Lunch Beef Meat Course

Beef Cheese And Carrot Sandwich

A quick and easy recipe for a delicious Beef, Cheese & Carrot Sandwich inspired by the Australian Women's Weekly! This satisfying sandwich is perfect for a light lunch or a tasty snack. Featuring tender roast beef, creamy cheese, crunchy carrots, and crisp lettuce, it's a flavor explosion in every bite!

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Almost Instant Tortellini And Cheese With Chicken Better Homes image 102
Beginner Cook Vegetables Course Main Dish

Almost Instant Tortellini And Cheese With Chicken Better Homes

Ready in just 20 minutes, this recipe is a weeknight lifesaver! Using pre-cooked chicken and frozen vegetables, this creamy tortellini dish is unbelievably quick and easy. Skip the long prep time and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal without the fuss. Perfect for busy families or anyone craving a comforting, cheesy pasta delight. This recipe elevates the classic mac and cheese with the addition of flavorful tortellini and tender chicken.

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So Easy Cream Cheese Icing image 120
Easy Easy Beginner Cook Taste Mood

So Easy Cream Cheese Icing

Forget store-bought! This ridiculously easy cream cheese icing recipe is a lifesaver. My best friend Brandy shared this secret weapon, and now I never buy pre-made icing again. It's unbelievably creamy, delicious, and takes just minutes to whip up. Plus, you can easily make it healthier with fat-free cream cheese without sacrificing flavor! Perfect for cakes, cupcakes, or anything that needs a delicious cream cheese frosting.

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