Are you a cream cheese lover looking to mix things up? Look no further! Cream cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of sweet and savory dishes. From bagels to brownies, this tangy spread has the power to elevate any recipe. In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious flavored cream cheese recipes you must try.
From classic combinations like strawberry swirl and maple pecan, to spicy twists like jalapeño stuffed peppers and buffalo ranch stuffed celery, there’s something for everyone in this collection of creamy delights. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, these recipes are sure to inspire your next culinary adventure. So go ahead, get creative with cream cheese, and see what amazing flavors you can come up with!
Strawberry Swirl Cream Cheese Spread
Elevate your snack game with this delightful cream cheese spread infused with the sweetness of strawberries. Perfect for topping bagels, crackers, or even using as a dip for fruit.
Ingredients:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup strawberry jam
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
3. Add the sugar, strawberry jam, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
5. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
6. Once cooled, use a spatula or whisk to create a swirl pattern on top.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Garlic Herb Cream Cheese Dip
Elevate your snack game with this rich and savory dip, perfect for veggies, crackers, or chips.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth.
2. Add the minced garlic and mix well.
3. Stir in the chopped parsley and dill.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including chilling time)
Maple Pecan Cream Cheese Frosting
This sweet and tangy frosting is a perfect combination of flavors for any fall-themed dessert, like pumpkin cake or pecan pie. The maple syrup adds a rich, velvety texture while the cream cheese provides a creamy contrast.
Ingredients:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon pure maple syrup
– 1 3/4 cups powdered sugar
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth.
2. Add the maple syrup and mix until well combined.
3. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until smooth and creamy.
4. Fold in the chopped pecans and vanilla extract.
5. Use immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None
Spicy Jalapeño Cream Cheese Stuffed Peppers
Elevate your snacking game with these creamy, spicy, and flavorful peppers! This recipe combines the richness of cream cheese with the boldness of jalapeños and the crunch of bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 2 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
– 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. In a medium bowl, mix cream cheese, chopped jalapeños, and salt.
3. Stuff each bell pepper with the cream cheese mixture, leaving about 1 inch at the top.
4. Top each pepper with shredded cheddar cheese.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the peppers and season with pepper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoked Salmon Cream Cheese Bagel Topping
Elevate your bagel game with this rich and creamy topping featuring smoked salmon and cream cheese. Perfect for a quick breakfast or brunch, this recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
– 1/4 cup smoked salmon, flaked
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Bagel or toast for serving
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese and chopped fresh dill until well combined.
2. Add the flaked smoked salmon, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Mix until smooth.
3. Spread the topping on your bagel or toast.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Chocolate Hazelnut Cream Cheese Dessert
A rich and creamy dessert that combines the flavors of chocolate, hazelnuts, and cream cheese, perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup hazelnuts, chopped
– Whipped cream and additional hazelnuts for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. In a medium bowl, mix crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Press mixture into a 9-inch springform pan.
2. Beat cream cheese and confectioners’ sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in vanilla extract.
3. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl. Stir in chopped hazelnuts.
4. Pour cheesecake batter into prepared pan over melted chocolate mixture. Smooth top.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
6. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours. Garnish with whipped cream and additional hazelnuts, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Everything Bagel Seasoned Cream Cheese
Transform your bagels into a flavor sensation with this simple and delicious recipe. This everything bagel seasoned cream cheese is perfect for topping toasted bagels, crackers, or veggies.
Ingredients:
– 1 block (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
– 2 tbsp everything bagel seasoning blend (or make your own mix of poppy seeds, sesame seeds, dried onion, and salt)
– 1/4 tsp garlic powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese and everything bagel seasoning blend until well combined.
3. Add the garlic powder and mix until smooth.
4. Spread the mixture onto toasted bagels, crackers, or veggies. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None needed! This recipe is a quick spread.
Pumpkin Spice Cream Cheese Muffins
These moist and flavorful muffins combine the comforting flavors of pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg with a tangy cream cheese swirl. Perfect for a cozy morning or afternoon treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, heavy cream, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Dollop 1-2 tablespoons of cream cheese mixture on top of each muffin.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Blueberry Lemon Cream Cheese Danish
Treat yourself to a flavorful pastry filled with sweet blueberries, tangy lemon, and creamy cream cheese. This Blueberry Lemon Cream Cheese Danish is perfect for breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup fresh blueberries
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1 large egg, beaten
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into 3-inch squares.
3. In a small bowl, mix together blueberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Spoon a small amount onto the center of each square.
4. Spread a small amount of cream cheese over the blueberry mixture, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
5. Fold the pastry squares into triangles, pressing edges to seal. Brush with beaten egg and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Caramelized Onion Cream Cheese Spread
Elevate your snack game with this sweet and savory spread that’s perfect for crackers, chips, or veggies. Caramelized onions add a depth of flavor to the classic cream cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs (e.g., parsley, chives) for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook onions over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until caramelized (about 45 minutes).
3. In a separate bowl, mix softened cream cheese and granulated sugar.
4. Add cooked caramelized onions to the cream cheese mixture; stir until well combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the spread to a serving dish or container.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes (for caramelizing onions) + 5 minutes (for mixing spread)
Cinnamon Honey Cream Cheese Stuffed French Toast
Start your day off right with this sweet and savory breakfast treat that combines the flavors of cinnamon, honey, and cream cheese inside a crispy baguette slice.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread (preferably challah or brioche)
– 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup of cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon of honey
– 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the cream cheese, honey, and cinnamon until well combined.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one slice of bread, butter-side down, on a flat surface.
4. Spread 1/4 of the cream cheese mixture on top of the bread slice.
5. Fold the other half of the bread slice over the filling to form a sandwich.
6. Cook in a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes per batch
Sun-Dried Tomato Basil Cream Cheese Pasta
This creamy pasta dish combines the flavors of sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, and cream cheese to create a rich and satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tbsp cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, combine sun-dried tomatoes, basil leaves, and cream cheese. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the cream cheese is melted and the mixture is smooth.
3. Add heavy cream and stir until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine cooked pasta and tomato-basil sauce in a large serving bowl. Toss until the pasta is well coated.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chive and Bacon Cream Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with these rich and savory mushrooms filled with a decadent chive and bacon cream cheese mixture.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as cremini or portobello)
– 1 block of cream cheese, softened
– 2 tablespoons of chives, chopped
– 4 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 tablespoon of butter, melted
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped chives, and crumbled bacon.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the cream cheese mixture, dividing it evenly among the mushrooms.
4. Dot the top of each mushroom with melted butter.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Matcha Green Tea Cream Cheese Frosting
Add a touch of Japanese flair to your baked goods with this vibrant and delicious matcha green tea cream cheese frosting. Perfect for topping cakes, cupcakes, or cookies.
Ingredients:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon matcha powder
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until well combined.
3. Add the matcha powder and mix until fully incorporated.
4. Add the heavy cream, starting with 1 tablespoon and adding more as needed to achieve desired consistency.
5. Beat the mixture for an additional 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy.
Cooking Time: None
Roasted Red Pepper Cream Cheese Dip
Add a pop of color and flavor to your next gathering with this creamy and addictive dip. Roasting the red peppers brings out their natural sweetness, which pairs perfectly with the tangy cream cheese.
Ingredients:
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Place the red peppers on a baking sheet and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until charred and blistered.
3. Remove from oven and let cool. Peel off skin, discarding it, and chop the flesh into small pieces.
4. In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
5. Stir in the roasted red peppers until well combined.
6. Chill in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
7. Serve with crackers, chips, or vegetables.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes (includes roasting time)
Apple Cinnamon Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls
These sweet and savory pastries combine the warmth of cinnamon with the tanginess of cream cheese, all wrapped up in a flaky, buttery crescent roll.
Ingredients:
– 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh apple (such as Granny Smith)
– 1 can (16.3 oz) crescent rolls
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix cream cheese, sugar, cinnamon, and salt until smooth.
3. Fold in chopped apple.
4. Roll out crescent dough on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
5. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
6. Roll up tightly, starting from one long side.
7. Place seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Buffalo Ranch Cream Cheese Stuffed Celery
Elevate your snack game with this creamy and spicy twist on traditional celery sticks.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of celery, cut into stalks
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup ranch dressing
– 2 tbsp hot sauce (Buffalo-style)
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt to taste
– Chopped fresh cilantro or scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together cream cheese, ranch dressing, hot sauce, and garlic powder until smooth.
3. Cut the celery stalks into bite-sized pieces.
4. Spoon about 1-2 tbsp of the cream cheese mixture onto each celery piece, depending on size.
5. Place stuffed celery on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cream cheese is melted and slightly golden brown.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro or scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lemon Poppy Seed Cream Cheese Cookies
Brighten up your baking with these tangy and sweet cookies, infused with the zest of lemon and the crunch of poppy seeds. Perfect for a sunny afternoon treat or as a special gift.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup poppy seeds
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
4. Gradually add sugar and beat until combined.
5. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by lemon zest and juice.
6. Stir in flour mixture and poppy seeds.
7. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet.
8. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
9. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Carrot Cake Cream Cheese Swirl Brownies
Elevate your brownie game with these creative treats that combine the richness of chocolate with the warmth of carrot cake and a tangy cream cheese swirl. Perfect for a unique dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) dark brown sugar
– 1/2 cup (120g) unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 and 1/4 cups (160g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (60g) unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 cup (120g) grated carrots
– 1/2 cup (120g) chopped walnuts (optional)
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and cocoa powder. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine brown sugar, butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth.
4. Add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Stir in grated carrots and chopped walnuts (if using).
6. Pour half the batter into the prepared pan. Top with cream cheese swirl (see below). Repeat layers.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cream Cheese Swirl:
1. Beat softened cream cheese with confectioners’ sugar until smooth.
2. Spread evenly over one half of the brownie batter in the pan.
3. Top with remaining batter and bake as instructed.
Truffle Oil and Parmesan Cream Cheese Spread
Elevate your snack game with this decadent spread, featuring the rich flavors of truffle oil and parmesan cheese. Perfect for crackers, bread, or veggies.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tsp truffle oil
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese and butter until smooth.
3. Stir in truffle oil and Parmesan cheese until well combined.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None required! This spread is ready to go straight from the fridge.
Yield: About 1 cup
Summary
Get ready to elevate your cooking game with these 20 mouth-watering flavored cream cheese recipes! From sweet treats like Maple Pecan Cream Cheese Frosting and Chocolate Hazelnut Cream Cheese Dessert, to savory delights such as Garlic Herb Cream Cheese Dip and Spicy Jalapeño Cream Cheese Stuffed Peppers, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a show-stopping dessert, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
