20 Cream Cheese Recipes That Will Make You Swoon

I’ve attached a video for every recipe below from my favorite home cooks.

Cream cheese is a versatile ingredient that can transform both sweet and savory dishes. From breakfast to dessert, this creamy spread adds richness and flavor to countless recipes. You can use cream cheese in everything from cheesecakes and frosting to dips and pasta sauces.

Whether you’re looking for a quick appetizer or a decadent dessert, cream cheese has got you covered. It’s perfect for making smooth, velvety textures in baked goods or adding a tangy kick to savory dishes. With so many ways to use cream cheese, you’ll never run out of delicious ideas in the kitchen.

Cheesecake

Ready to make a classic cheesecake? Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/2 cup melted butter
  • 4 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 4 eggs
  • 1/4 cup sour cream

Directions:

  1. Mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.

  2. Beat cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed. Stir in sour cream.

  3. Pour batter over crust. Bake at 325°F for 1 hour.

  4. Turn off oven and let cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour with door closed.

  5. Remove from oven and run a knife around the edge. Let cool completely.

  6. Chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours before serving.

Your cheesecake will be creamy and delicious! Top with fresh fruit or whipped cream if you like.

Cream Cheese Frosting

You’ll love this easy cream cheese frosting recipe! It’s perfect for topping cakes, cupcakes, and more.

Ingredients:

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Directions:

  1. Beat the cream cheese and butter in a large bowl until smooth and creamy.

  2. Add the vanilla extract and salt. Mix well.

  3. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing on low speed at first.

  4. Once all the sugar is added, increase the speed to medium-high. Beat for 2 minutes until fluffy.

  5. Use right away or store in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Your frosting is ready to spread on your favorite treats! It’s creamy, sweet, and so delicious.

Bagel With Cream Cheese

Ready to make a yummy bagel with cream cheese? Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

  • 1 fresh bagel (any flavor you like)
  • 2-3 tablespoons cream cheese
  • Optional toppings (like sliced tomatoes or smoked salmon)

Directions:

  1. Slice your bagel in half.

  2. Pop it in the toaster until it’s nice and golden.

  3. Spread a thick layer of cream cheese on each half. Don’t be shy!

  4. Add any extra toppings you want.

  5. Put the halves together and give it a gentle squeeze.

There you have it! Your bagel is ready to eat. Take a big bite and enjoy the creamy, chewy goodness. It’s perfect for breakfast or a quick snack any time of day.

Want to mix things up? Try different bagel flavors or cream cheese spreads. You can even add some crunch with cucumber slices or sweetness with a drizzle of honey.

Cream Cheese Dip

You’ll love this easy cream cheese dip! Here’s what you need:

Ingredients:

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • 1 small garlic clove, crushed
  • 1/2 teaspoon seasoned salt
  • Optional: chives for garnish

Directions:

  1. Mix the softened cream cheese and milk in a bowl with a hand mixer until smooth.

  2. Stir in the crushed garlic and seasoned salt.

  3. Cover and chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours to let the flavors combine.

  4. Before serving, give it a quick stir. Sprinkle some chopped chives on top if you’d like.

  5. Serve with veggies, crackers, or chips. Enjoy your creamy, garlicky dip!

Jalapeno Poppers

Get ready to make some tasty jalapeno poppers! Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

  • 12 fresh jalapenos
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
See also  Slow Cooker Mulled Cider

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

  2. Cut the jalapenos in half lengthwise. Scoop out the seeds and veins. Be careful and wear gloves!

  3. Mix cream cheese, cheddar, bacon, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl.

  4. Stuff each jalapeno half with the cheese mixture.

  5. Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the stuffed peppers.

  6. Bake for 20-25 minutes until peppers are tender and tops are golden.

Let them cool a bit before you dig in. Enjoy your homemade jalapeno poppers!

Cream Cheese Pancakes

You’ll love these creamy, fluffy pancakes! Here’s what you need:

Ingredients:

  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 2 eggs
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Butter for cooking

Directions:

  1. Blend the cream cheese, eggs, milk, and vanilla until smooth.

  2. In a separate bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.

  3. Combine the wet and dry ingredients. Don’t overmix – a few lumps are okay!

  4. Heat a griddle or pan over medium heat. Melt a little butter on the surface.

  5. Pour 1/4 cup of batter for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on top.

  6. Flip and cook the other side until golden brown.

  7. Serve warm with your favorite toppings. Enjoy your creamy pancakes!

Cream Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms

You’ll need:

  • 12-16 white button or cremini mushrooms
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped red bell pepper
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

  2. Clean the mushrooms and gently remove the stems. Set the caps aside.

  3. In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, Parmesan, bell pepper, garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.

  4. Spoon the cream cheese mixture into each mushroom cap. Don’t be afraid to mound it up a bit!

  5. Place the stuffed mushrooms on your prepared baking sheet. Lightly brush them with olive oil.

  6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is golden brown on top.

  7. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your creamy, cheesy bites!

Buffalo Chicken Dip

Here’s what you’ll need to make this tasty dip:

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup ranch dressing
  • 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
  • 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Now let’s make it:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

  2. Mix the cream cheese, ranch dressing, and buffalo sauce in a bowl until smooth.

  3. Stir in the shredded chicken and half the cheddar cheese.

  4. Spread the mixture in a baking dish and top with the rest of the cheese.

  5. Bake for 20-25 minutes until hot and bubbly.

  6. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Serve your Buffalo Chicken Dip warm with chips, crackers, or veggie sticks. It’s perfect for game day or any party!

Cream Cheese Spinach Dip

Here’s what you’ll need to make this yummy dip:

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 10 oz frozen spinach, thawed and drained
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/8 tsp black pepper

Now let’s make it!

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

  2. Mix the cream cheese in a bowl until smooth.

  3. Add the spinach, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir well.

  4. Spread the mixture in a small baking dish.

  5. Bake for 20-25 minutes until hot and bubbly.

  6. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Serve your warm, creamy dip with crackers, bread, or veggie sticks. It’s perfect for parties or a cozy night in. Enjoy!

No-Bake Cream Cheese Pie

You’ll love this easy no-bake cream cheese pie! Here’s what you need:

Ingredients:

  • 1 pre-made graham cracker crust
  • 16 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 can sweetened condensed milk
  • 1/3 cup lemon juice
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 can cherry pie filling (optional)

Directions:

Beat the cream cheese until it’s fluffy. This takes about 3 minutes with an electric mixer.

Add the sweetened condensed milk and mix until smooth.

Stir in the lemon juice and vanilla.

Pour the mixture into your graham cracker crust.

Put the pie in the fridge for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Before serving, you can top it with cherry pie filling if you like.

That’s it! You’ve made a yummy no-bake cream cheese pie. Enjoy your creamy treat!

See also  Chicken Pot Pie Pasta Recipe

Cream Cheese Brownies

Looking for a decadent treat? Try these cream cheese brownies! Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup butter, melted
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/3 cup cocoa powder
  • 1/2 cup flour
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp baking powder
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1 egg
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking pan.

  2. Mix melted butter, 1 cup sugar, 2 eggs, and 1 tsp vanilla in a bowl. Stir in cocoa, flour, salt, and baking powder. Spread batter in the pan.

  3. In another bowl, beat cream cheese, 1/4 cup sugar, 1 egg, and 1/2 tsp vanilla until smooth.

  4. Drop spoonfuls of cream cheese mixture over the brownie batter. Swirl with a knife for a marbled effect.

  5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until a toothpick comes out mostly clean. Cool before cutting.

Enjoy your homemade cream cheese brownies! They’re perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.

Cream Cheese Mashed Potatoes

You’ll need:

  • 3 pounds potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cloves garlic (optional)

Directions:

  1. Put the potato cubes in a big pot with cold salted water. Add garlic if using.

  2. Bring to a boil and cook for 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are soft when poked with a fork.

  3. Drain the potatoes and put them back in the warm pot.

  4. Add the cream cheese, milk, and butter to the potatoes.

  5. Mash everything together until smooth and creamy. You can use a potato masher or an electric mixer.

  6. Taste and add salt and pepper as needed.

  7. Serve hot and enjoy your creamy, cheesy mashed potatoes!

These mashed potatoes are super tasty and easy to make. The cream cheese gives them a rich, tangy flavor that your family will love.

Cream Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast

You’ll need:

  • 4 chicken breasts
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Here’s how to make it:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

  2. Mix the cream cheese, Parmesan, parsley, garlic, oregano, and basil in a bowl.

  3. Butterfly the chicken breasts by cutting them horizontally, not all the way through.

  4. Spread the cream cheese mixture inside each chicken breast.

  5. Close the chicken breasts and secure with toothpicks if needed.

  6. Season the outside with salt and pepper.

  7. Place the stuffed chicken in a baking dish lined with parchment paper.

  8. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.

  9. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Enjoy your delicious cream cheese stuffed chicken breast!

Cream Cheese Fruit Dip

You’ll love this tasty and easy cream cheese fruit dip! It’s perfect for parties or a quick snack.

Ingredients:

  • 8 oz whipped cream cheese
  • 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 3/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/4 tsp vanilla extract

Directions:

  1. Put the whipped cream cheese in a mixing bowl. Beat it until it’s smooth.

  2. Add the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract to the bowl.

  3. Mix everything on low speed. Keep going until it’s all well combined and creamy.

  4. Chill the dip in the fridge until you’re ready to serve it.

  5. Grab your favorite fruits and start dipping! Strawberries, apple slices, and grapes work great.

This dip is super quick to make and always a hit. You can whip it up in just a few minutes whenever you want a yummy treat. Enjoy your fruity snack!

Cream Cheese Danish

You’ll love making this yummy cream cheese danish at home! Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

  • 2 cans crescent roll dough
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/3 cup sugar
  • 1 egg yolk
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp lemon juice

For the glaze:

  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1-2 tbsp milk

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

  2. Unroll one can of crescent dough and press it into a rectangle on the baking sheet. Pinch seams to seal.

  3. Mix cream cheese, sugar, egg yolk, vanilla, and lemon juice until smooth. Spread over the dough, leaving a border around the edges.

  4. Unroll the second can of dough and place it on top. Pinch edges to seal.

  5. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Let cool for 10 minutes.

  6. Mix powdered sugar and milk to make the glaze. Drizzle over your warm danish.

See also  Chicken Pot Pie Crock Pot Recipe

Enjoy your homemade cream cheese danish with a cup of coffee! It’s perfect for a weekend breakfast treat.

Cream Cheese Sushi Rolls (Philadelphia Roll)

Here’s what you’ll need to make delicious Philadelphia rolls:

Ingredients:

  • 3 cups sushi rice
  • 3 cups water
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 4 sheets nori (seaweed)
  • 8 oz smoked salmon
  • 8 oz cream cheese
  • 1 cucumber
  • Sesame seeds (optional)

Directions:

  1. Cook the sushi rice with water. Mix in rice vinegar and let it cool.

  2. Cut cream cheese and cucumber into strips.

  3. Place a nori sheet on a bamboo mat. Spread rice evenly on the nori.

  4. Flip the nori so the rice is facing down.

  5. Add salmon, cream cheese, and cucumber strips at one end.

  6. Using the mat, roll the sushi tightly. Wet the edge of the nori to seal.

  7. Slice the roll into 6-8 pieces.

  8. Sprinkle with sesame seeds if you like.

You can enjoy your homemade Philadelphia rolls right away! They’re perfect for a fun dinner or party snack.

Cream Cheese Wontons

Ready to make some tasty cream cheese wontons? Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 3 green onions, finely chopped
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • Wonton wrappers
  • 1 egg (for egg wash)
  • Vegetable oil for frying

Now let’s get cooking!

  1. Mix the cream cheese, green onions, sugar, salt, and garlic powder in a bowl until smooth.

  2. Place a teaspoon of the mixture in the center of a wonton wrapper.

  3. Wet the edges of the wrapper with water or egg wash.

  4. Fold the wrapper diagonally to form a triangle, sealing the edges tightly.

  5. Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep fryer or large pot.

  6. Fry the wontons in batches for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.

  7. Drain on paper towels and let cool slightly before serving.

Enjoy your crispy, creamy wontons! They’re perfect as an appetizer or party snack.

Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins

Here’s what you’ll need for these yummy fall treats:

Ingredients:

  • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners.

  2. Mix flour, baking soda, salt, and pumpkin pie spice in a bowl.

  3. In another bowl, whisk pumpkin, oil, eggs, and sugar until smooth.

  4. Fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.

  5. For the filling, beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until creamy.

  6. Fill muffin cups halfway with batter. Add a spoonful of cream cheese mixture to each.

  7. Top with remaining batter, covering the cream cheese completely.

  8. Bake for 18-20 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.

  9. Let the muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Enjoy your warm, spiced pumpkin muffins with a gooey cream cheese center!

Cream Cheese Pasta Sauce

You’ll love this easy and tasty cream cheese pasta sauce! It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Ingredients:

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 cup milk (optional, for thinning)

Directions:

  1. Cook your favorite pasta according to package instructions.

  2. In a large pan, melt the cream cheese over medium heat.

  3. Add the chicken broth and whisk until smooth.

  4. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper.

  5. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring often.

  6. If the sauce is too thick, add milk a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

  7. Toss the sauce with your cooked pasta and enjoy!

This sauce is super versatile. You can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or veggies to make it a complete meal. It’s also great with different pasta shapes – try it with fettuccine, penne, or even tortellini!

Cream Cheese Cookies

You’ll love these soft, buttery cream cheese cookies! Here’s what you need to make them:

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt

Directions:

  1. Mix the softened butter and cream cheese in a large bowl until smooth.

  2. Beat in the powdered sugar, egg, and vanilla.

  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.

  5. Chill the dough for at least 1 hour.

  6. Preheat your oven to 375°F and line baking sheets with parchment paper.

  7. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the sheets, spacing them 2 inches apart.

  8. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden.

  9. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Enjoy your delicious homemade cream cheese cookies!