When it comes to cooking, there are few ingredients as versatile and delicious as cream cheese. This tangy and creamy spread can be used in a wide range of dishes, from sweet treats like cheesecakes and cupcakes to savory meals like stuffed chicken and mashed potatoes. Whether you’re looking for a simple snack or a show-stopping centerpiece, cream cheese is the perfect addition to any meal.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouthwatering cream cheese recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. From classic desserts to innovative twists on familiar flavors, these recipes showcase the best of what cream cheese has to offer. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, you’ll find something to love in this collection of creamy delights.
Cream Cheese Stuffed French Toast
Start your day with a sweet and savory twist on traditional French toast. This creamy delight is perfect for breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread ( Challah or Brioche work well)
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– Pinch of salt
– Fresh fruit and maple syrup for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place two slices of bread, butter-side down, in a skillet or griddle over medium heat.
4. Spread about 2 tablespoons of cream cheese mixture on top of each bread slice.
5. Fold the other half of the bread over to enclose the filling.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until golden brown. Flip and cook an additional 1-2 minutes.
7. Serve warm with fresh fruit and maple syrup, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 6-8 minutes per batch
Garlic Herb Cream Cheese Spread
Elevate your snack game with this flavorful spread that combines the richness of cream cheese with the pungency of garlic and herbs. Perfect for crackers, vegetables, or as a dip for your favorite snacks.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth.
2. Add the minced garlic, parsley, and chives to the cream cheese. Mix until well combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (no cooking required!)
Classic New York Cheesecake
This iconic dessert is a timeless favorite, with its creamy texture, rich flavor, and smooth graham cracker crust. Perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 pounds cream cheese, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix crumbs and sugar; add melted butter until well combined.
3. Press mixture into a 9-inch springform pan.
4. Beat cream cheese until smooth; add eggs one at a time, then sugar and vanilla.
5. Pour batter over crust.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
7. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Cream Cheese Frosted Carrot Cake
Moist and flavorful carrot cake meets creamy frosting in this delightful dessert. Perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence, this recipe is sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups grated carrots
– 1 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
– Cream cheese frosting ingredients: 8 ounces cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups powdered sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add softened butter, eggs, grated carrots, and chopped walnuts (if using). Mix until just combined.
4. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
5. Allow cakes to cool completely before frosting with cream cheese frosting.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Spinach and Cream Cheese Stuffed Chicken
Elevate your chicken game with this creamy, savory, and healthy recipe. Spinach and cream cheese add a rich flavor profile that pairs perfectly with the tender chicken.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together spinach, cream cheese, and parsley.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each chicken breast with the spinach mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of each stuffed breast.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cream Cheese and Chive Mashed Potatoes
Elevate your mashed potato game with this rich and savory recipe that combines the tanginess of cream cheese with the subtle onion flavor of chives.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the chopped potatoes in a large pot and add enough cold water to cover them. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
2. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the butter, salt, and pepper, and mash until smooth.
3. In a separate bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with the chopped chives until well combined.
4. Add the cream cheese mixture to the mashed potatoes and stir until fully incorporated.
5. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mini Cream Cheese Danish Pastries
These bite-sized treats are perfect for a sweet breakfast or snack. A flaky pastry crust is filled with a tangy cream cheese mixture, then topped with a sweet and crunchy streusel topping.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a bowl, mix together cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Spoon the cream cheese mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2 inch border around the edges.
5. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling to form a triangle or a rectangle shape.
6. Brush the edges with melted butter and sprinkle with chopped nuts (if using).
7. Place pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cream Cheese and Jalapeño Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with this creamy, spicy, and savory treat! Cream Cheese and Jalapeño Stuffed Mushrooms are a perfect blend of flavors and textures that will leave everyone wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushrooms (any variety), cleaned and stemmed
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together cream cheese, cilantro, jalapeños, and lemon juice until smooth.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the cream cheese mixture, dividing it evenly among the mushrooms.
4. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of the filling, if using.
5. Place stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Red Velvet Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Icing
Classic Southern charm comes alive in these moist and decadent red velvet cupcakes topped with a tangy cream cheese icing.
Ingredients:
For the cupcakes:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons red food coloring
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the icing:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine butter, eggs, red food coloring, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; mix until combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among liners. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cream Cheese Icing:
1. Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until combined.
3. Add vanilla extract; beat until smooth.
Cream Cheese and Smoked Salmon Bagels
Elevate your brunch game with this elegant and flavorful combination of cream cheese, smoked salmon, and toasted bagels.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bagels (toasted)
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup smoked salmon, flaked
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: capers, thinly sliced red onion, or chopped fresh dill for garnish
Instructions:
1. Spread a layer of cream cheese on each toasted bagel.
2. Top with flaked smoked salmon, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Drizzle lemon juice over the salmon and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Garnish with capers, thinly sliced red onion, or chopped fresh dill if desired.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (prep) + assembly time
Cream Cheese and Sausage Stuffed Bell Peppers
Elevate your bell pepper game with this creamy and savory twist! This recipe combines the sweetness of roasted bell peppers with the richness of cream cheese and the smokiness of sausage.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. In a bowl, mix cooked sausage, cream cheese, and shredded cheddar cheese.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the sausage mixture and place in a baking dish.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies
Get ready to indulge your sweet tooth with these rich and chewy cookies that combine the creaminess of cream cheese with the decadence of chocolate chips.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and cream cheese until well combined.
3. Add butter, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
4. Stir in chocolate chips.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies
Cream Cheese and Crab Dip
Satisfy your cravings with this rich and savory dip that combines the creaminess of cream cheese with the indulgent flavor of crab. Perfect for parties, gatherings, or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup lump crab meat (jumbo or blue claw)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix the softened cream cheese until smooth.
3. Add the crab meat, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, and salt. Mix well.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9-inch serving dish or small cast-iron skillet.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the dip is warm and bubbly.
6. Sprinkle chopped scallions on top (if using).
7. Serve with crackers, chips, or veggies.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Servings: 8-10
Cream Cheese and Bacon Stuffed Dates
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of dates with the richness of cream cheese and the smokiness of bacon, creating a perfect bite-sized snack.
Ingredients:
– 12 pitted Medjool dates
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together cream cheese, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Stuff each date with about 1 tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture.
4. Top each date with a piece of crumbled bacon.
5. Place stuffed dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the bacon is crispy.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cream Cheese and Berry Parfait
Elevate your breakfast or brunch game with this sweet and tangy Cream Cheese and Berry Parfait recipe. Layers of creamy cream cheese, fresh berries, and crunchy granola create a delightful treat.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/4 cup granola
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese and honey until smooth.
2. Cut the fresh berries into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
3. Layer the cream cheese mixture, berries, and granola in small glasses or parfait dishes, ending with a layer of berries on top.
4. Drizzle the lemon juice over the berries and serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes (prep only)
Tips:
– Use your favorite berry combination or add some citrus zest for extra flavor.
– Store leftover parfait in an airtight container for up to 24 hours.
Cream Cheese and Pesto Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy, savory, and utterly delicious twist on traditional stuffed shells. This recipe combines the richness of cream cheese with the bold flavor of pesto for an unforgettable taste experience.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, mix cream cheese and pesto until smooth.
4. Stuff each cooked shell with the cream cheese mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Top stuffed shells with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Sprinkle with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cream Cheese and Pumpkin Roll
This creamy and sweet roll combines the warmth of pumpkin with the tanginess of cream cheese, perfect for a fall dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 package (16 oz) cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract; mix well.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; mix until just combined.
4. Pour batter into prepared pan and spread evenly.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Let cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cream Cheese and Cinnamon Swirl Bread
A sweet and savory treat that combines the richness of cream cheese with the warmth of cinnamon, this swirl bread is perfect for breakfast or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 package active dry yeast
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine yeast and warm water. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add flour, butter, cream cheese, sugar, cinnamon, and salt to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and roll out into a rectangle.
6. Spread cream cheese mixture over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border on both sides. Roll up tightly and tuck ends under.
7. Place the loaf in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a world of creamy delights with these 18 delicious cream cheese recipes! From sweet treats like Cream Cheese Stuffed French Toast and Red Velvet Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Icing, to savory dishes like Spinach and Cream Cheese Stuffed Chicken and Cream Cheese and Bacon Stuffed Dates, there’s something for every occasion. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic New York Cheesecake or a unique twist on a favorite recipe, these cream cheese creations are sure to satisfy your cravings.
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