14 Delicious Cream Cheese Recipes You’ll Love
Cream cheese is one of those versatile ingredients that can be used in both savory and sweet dishes, bringing a creamy texture and tangy flavor to a wide variety of recipes. Whether you’re looking for a classic dessert like cheesecake or a savory snack like stuffed jalapeños, cream cheese enhances the taste and texture of countless dishes. In this post, we’ll dive into 15 delicious cream cheese recipes that you’ll want to try!
Why Cream Cheese is a Staple in American Kitchens
Cream cheese has been a staple in American kitchens for over a century. Its rich, creamy texture and mildly tangy flavor make it a versatile ingredient that pairs well with both savory and sweet dishes. Brands like Philadelphia Cream Cheese have become household names, and cream cheese is commonly used in everything from spreads and dips to frostings and fillings.
The creaminess of cream cheese is perfect for creating smooth textures in baked goods, dips, and even savory meals. Additionally, it helps balance flavors, making it an essential ingredient in a variety of recipes.
Popular Cream Cheese Varieties
- Philadelphia Cream Cheese: The most famous brand, known for its smooth texture and versatility in recipes.
- Mascarpone: A richer, creamier cheese used in Italian desserts like tiramisu.
- Neufchâtel: A lower-fat version of cream cheese, often used in lighter recipes.
Cream cheese can also be paired with other cheeses like mascarpone in desserts, or even used as a filling in savory appetizers. Let’s explore some of the most beloved cream cheese recipes!
Classic Sweet Cream Cheese Recipes
1. New York-Style Cheesecake
New York-style cheesecake is a classic American dessert known for its rich and creamy texture. The tanginess of cream cheese perfectly complements the sweetness of the crust, making it a favorite at parties, holidays, and special occasions.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cream cheese | 4 cups (900g) |
| Granulated sugar | 1 cup (200g) |
| Eggs | 4 large |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp |
| Sour cream | 1 cup (240g) |
| Graham crackers | 1.5 cups (150g) |
| Butter (melted) | 1/2 cup (115g) |
Instructions:
- Prepare the crust: Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). In a bowl, combine crushed graham crackers and melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of a springform pan to form the crust.
- Make the filling: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and mix until well combined. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla and sour cream.
- Bake: Pour the filling into the prepared crust and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Let it cool completely and refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving.
2. Cream Cheese Frosting
No cake is complete without a delicious frosting, and cream cheese frosting is one of the most popular options. It’s especially common on carrot cakes, red velvet cakes, and cinnamon rolls.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cream cheese | 8 oz (226g) |
| Unsalted butter | 1/2 cup (115g) |
| Powdered sugar | 4 cups (500g) |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp |
Instructions:
- Beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, and mix until smooth.
- Stir in vanilla extract and mix until the frosting is light and fluffy. Spread it over your cake or cupcakes.
3. Cream Cheese Pound Cake
This cream cheese pound cake is dense, moist, and rich, thanks to the addition of cream cheese. It’s perfect for a cozy afternoon with a cup of coffee or tea.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cream cheese | 8 oz (226g) |
| Butter | 1/2 cup (115g) |
| Granulated sugar | 1 1/2 cups (300g) |
| Eggs | 4 large |
| All-purpose flour | 2 1/2 cups (310g) |
| Baking powder | 1 tsp |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp |
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C) and grease a bundt pan.
- Cream the butter and cream cheese together until light and fluffy. Gradually add sugar, beating until smooth.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Combine the dry ingredients and add them to the wet mixture in stages, alternating with milk if needed.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
4. No-Bake Cream Cheese Fruit Tart
For a light and refreshing dessert, try this no-bake cream cheese fruit tart. The creamy filling paired with fresh fruit is perfect for summer gatherings.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cream cheese | 8 oz (226g) |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup (240ml) |
| Powdered sugar | 1/4 cup (30g) |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp |
| Fresh mixed fruit | 2 cups (300g) |
| Tart shell (pre-baked) | 1 (9-inch) |
Instructions:
- Beat the cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Add vanilla extract.
- Whip the heavy cream in a separate bowl until stiff peaks form, then fold it into the cream cheese mixture.
- Spread the filling into the tart shell and top with fresh fruit. Chill for at least 2 hours before serving.
Savory Cream Cheese Recipes
5. Buffalo Chicken Dip
Buffalo chicken dip is a fan favorite at parties, especially during the Super Bowl. It’s creamy, spicy, and full of flavor.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Shredded chicken | 2 cups (300g) |
| Cream cheese | 8 oz (226g) |
| Ranch dressing | 1/2 cup (120ml) |
| Hot sauce | 1/4 cup (60ml) |
| Shredded cheddar cheese | 1 cup (100g) |
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a baking dish, combine the shredded chicken, cream cheese, ranch dressing, hot sauce, and shredded cheese.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is bubbly and golden on top. Serve with chips, crackers, or celery sticks.
6. Cream Cheese Stuffed Jalapeños
Cream cheese stuffed jalapeños are the ultimate spicy, creamy appetizer. These poppers are a perfect combination of heat and richness.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Jalapeños | 12 large |
| Cream cheese | 8 oz (226g) |
| Cheddar cheese | 1/2 cup (50g) |
| Bacon | 6 slices |
| Garlic powder | 1 tsp |
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the jalapeños in half and remove the seeds.
- Mix the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and garlic powder together. Stuff each jalapeño half with the cream cheese mixture.
- Wrap each stuffed jalapeño with a slice of bacon and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy.
7. Cream Cheese Chicken Casserole
This cream cheese chicken casserole is a comforting, hearty meal that is perfect for busy weeknights. It’s creamy, flavorful, and filling.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Shredded chicken | 2 cups (300g) |
| Cream cheese | 8 oz (226g) |
| Cream of chicken soup | 1 can (10.5 oz) |
| Mixed veggies (frozen) | 2 cups (300g) |
| Shredded cheese | 1 cup (100g) |
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken, cream cheese, cream of chicken soup, and frozen veggies.
- Pour the mixture into a baking dish, top with shredded cheese, and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly.
8. Cream Cheese and Spinach Stuffed Mushrooms
Cream cheese and spinach stuffed mushrooms make a great appetizer. The creamy filling complements the earthy flavor of the mushrooms.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Mushrooms (large) | 12 |
| Cream cheese | 8 oz (226g) |
| Fresh spinach | 1 cup (30g) |
| Parmesan cheese | 1/4 cup (25g) |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, minced |
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Clean the mushrooms and remove the stems.
- Sauté the spinach and garlic in a pan until soft, then mix with cream cheese and Parmesan.
- Stuff the mushroom caps with the mixture and bake for 15-20 minutes.
9. Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Roll-Ups
These smoked salmon and cream cheese roll-ups are perfect for brunch, parties, or as an appetizer. The combination of the creamy texture of cream cheese and the smoky, savory flavor of the salmon makes for a delightful bite.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Smoked salmon | 6 oz (170g) |
| Cream cheese | 8 oz (226g) |
| Flour tortillas | 4 large |
| Fresh dill | 2 tbsp |
| Capers | 2 tbsp |
Instructions:
- Lay the flour tortillas flat on a clean surface. Spread a thin layer of cream cheese on each tortilla.
- Layer the smoked salmon evenly over the cream cheese. Sprinkle with fresh dill and capers for added flavor.
- Roll up the tortillas tightly and slice into bite-sized pieces. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
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Easy Breakfast & Snack Cream Cheese Recipes
10. Bagels with Cream Cheese & Toppings
A classic breakfast dish, bagels with cream cheese are quick to make and customizable with various toppings such as smoked salmon, fresh vegetables, or jam.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Bagels | 4 large |
| Cream cheese | 8 oz (226g) |
| Smoked salmon (optional) | 4 oz (115g) |
| Fresh tomatoes (optional) | 1 large tomato |
| Red onions (optional) | 1 small |
| Capers (optional) | 2 tbsp |
Instructions:
- Slice the bagels in half and toast them until golden brown.
- Spread cream cheese generously on each toasted bagel half.
- Top with smoked salmon, fresh tomato slices, red onions, and capers, if desired. Serve immediately.
11. Cream Cheese Pancakes (Keto-Friendly)
For those following a keto or low-carb diet, cream cheese pancakes offer a delicious alternative to traditional pancakes. These pancakes are fluffy, light, and can be topped with fresh berries or sugar-free syrup.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cream cheese | 8 oz (226g) |
| Eggs | 4 large |
| Almond flour | 1/4 cup (30g) |
| Baking powder | 1 tsp |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp |
Instructions:
- Blend the cream cheese, eggs, almond flour, baking powder, and vanilla extract in a food processor or using a hand blender until smooth.
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and lightly grease it with butter or oil.
- Pour the pancake batter onto the skillet, forming small pancakes. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Serve with fresh berries or sugar-free syrup.
12. Cream Cheese Rice Krispies Treats
This fun twist on Rice Krispies Treats incorporates cream cheese to create a richer, more decadent snack. These treats are chewy, sweet, and packed with marshmallow goodness.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Rice Krispies cereal | 6 cups (180g) |
| Marshmallows | 10 oz (280g) |
| Butter | 1/4 cup (60g) |
| Cream cheese | 4 oz (113g) |
Instructions:
- Melt the butter and marshmallows in a large saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly until smooth.
- Stir in the cream cheese until fully incorporated.
- Add the Rice Krispies cereal to the marshmallow mixture, and stir until evenly coated.
- Press the mixture into a greased baking pan and let it cool. Cut into squares and serve.
Quick & Easy Cream Cheese Dips for Every Occasion
13. Cream Cheese Dip with Ranch Dressing
This cream cheese dip with ranch dressing is a perfect party snack. It’s easy to make, super creamy, and full of flavor, perfect for dipping vegetables, crackers, or chips.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cream cheese | 8 oz (226g) |
| Ranch dressing mix | 1 packet |
| Sour cream | 1/2 cup (120g) |
| Garlic powder | 1 tsp |
Instructions:
- Beat the cream cheese in a mixing bowl until smooth.
- Add the ranch dressing mix, sour cream, and garlic powder. Stir until everything is well combined.
- Chill the dip for at least 30 minutes before serving with chips, crackers, or fresh veggies.
14. Cream Cheese Dip with Hot Sauce and Garlic
If you’re looking for a spicy, creamy dip, this cream cheese dip with hot sauce and garlic will hit the spot. It’s perfect for game day, parties, or any occasion where you need a delicious dip.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cream cheese | 8 oz (226g) |
| Hot sauce | 1/4 cup (60ml) |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves |
| Sour cream | 1/4 cup (60g) |
Instructions:
- In a bowl, mix the cream cheese and sour cream together until smooth.
- Add the hot sauce and minced garlic, and stir until well combined.
- Serve chilled with tortilla chips or fresh vegetables for dipping.
Conclusion
Cream cheese is a true culinary gem that shines in both savory and sweet recipes. From rich New York-style cheesecakes to savory Buffalo chicken dip, there’s a cream cheese recipe for every occasion. Whether you’re making an indulgent dessert or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, cream cheese adds a creamy, tangy richness to your dishes.
Why You Should Try These Recipes
- Versatility: Cream cheese pairs well with sweet and savory flavors, making it a versatile ingredient in your kitchen.
- Ease of Preparation: Many of these recipes, like the no-bake tart or cream cheese dip, are quick and easy to make.
- Crowd-Pleasers: These recipes are perfect for entertaining, whether it’s a casual brunch or a holiday gathering.
Next time you’re looking to create something delicious and easy, be sure to reach for some cream cheese!
We’d love to hear from you! Which cream cheese recipe will you try first? Comment below with your favorite and share it with your friends on social media for more ideas!
FAQs
Cream cheese is versatile! Use it in dips, spreads, frostings, cheesecake, and savory dishes. It can also be mixed into pasta sauces, baked into pastries, or used as a filling for stuffed vegetables.
Philadelphia cream cheese is great for cheesecake, creamy dips, spreads for bagels, frostings for cakes, and savory dishes like creamy pasta sauces or stuffed chicken.
Cream cheese pairs well with smoked salmon, bagels, fresh herbs, berries, honey, chocolate, garlic, spinach, and jalapeños for both sweet and savory dishes.
To prepare cream cheese, simply soften it by leaving it at room temperature for 15-20 minutes. Whisk or beat it for smoothness, and then use it in your recipe, whether it’s for spreading, frosting, or mixing into dips.