Ah, Philadelphia cream cheese – the ultimate ingredient for any food lover. Whether you’re a fan of classic cheesecakes, indulgent dips, or decadent desserts, this iconic spread has got you covered. In this article, we’ll be diving into the world of creamy Philadelphia recipes that will satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more. From sweet treats like strawberry-topped cheesecake bars to savory bites like garlic herb cream cheese dip, we’ve gathered 20 mouth-watering recipes that showcase the versatility and richness of Philly cream cheese.
Get ready to indulge in a world of creamy goodness, where the possibilities are endless and the flavors are unbeatable. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, these recipes will inspire your next cooking adventure and leave you feeling like a cheesemonger extraordinaire.
Philadelphia Cream Cheese Stuffed French Toast
Elevate your breakfast game with this decadent twist on classic French toast. Rich cream cheese filling oozes out of every bite, making it a perfect treat for special occasions or a weekend indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread ( challah or brioche work well)
– 8 oz Philadelphia cream cheese, softened
– 2 tbsp granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup milk
– Butter, melted
– Fresh fruit or powdered sugar for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, and vanilla extract.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
3. Dip each bread slice into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place coated bread slices on the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
5. Meanwhile, mix softened cream cheese with granulated sugar and maple syrup until smooth.
6. Assemble French toast by spreading a layer of cream cheese filling on each cooked slice, then top with another slice to create a sandwich.
7. Serve warm, dust with powdered sugar, and top with fresh fruit if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Philadelphia Cheesecake with Strawberry Topping
This classic cheesecake gets a sweet and tangy twist with a fresh strawberry topping, perfect for warm weather or special occasions.
Ingredients:
For the cheesecake:
– 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 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the strawberry topping:
– 2 cups hulled and sliced strawberries
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. Prepare crust: Mix crumbs, sugar, and melted butter; press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Make cheesecake: Beat cream cheese until smooth; add eggs one at a time, then vanilla extract. Pour into prepared pan.
4. Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes or until edges are set.
5. Prepare strawberry topping: Toss strawberries with sugar and honey. Let sit for 30 minutes to allow juices to release.
6. Serve cheesecake warm or at room temperature, topped with strawberry mixture.
Cooking Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Philadelphia Garlic Herb Cream Cheese Dip
Savor the classic flavors of Philadelphia with this creamy dip, perfect for snacking or entertaining. With a rich garlic and herb flavor profile, it’s sure to please even the pickiest palates.
Ingredients:
– 1 block (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, garlic, parsley, chives, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
3. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or ramekin.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the dip is warm and lightly browned around the edges.
5. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Philadelphia Smoked Salmon Bagel Spread
This classic spread combines the rich flavors of smoked salmon with cream cheese and dill, perfect for topping toasted bagels or crackers.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp prepared horseradish
– 1/2 cup smoked salmon, flaked
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the cream cheese, chopped dill, lemon juice, and horseradish. Mix until smooth.
2. Fold in the flaked smoked salmon.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None needed! This spread is ready to use straight from the fridge.
Philadelphia Creamy Spinach Artichoke Pasta
A rich and satisfying pasta dish that combines the flavors of Philadelphia Cream Cheese with spinach, artichokes, and a hint of garlic. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 cup Philadelphia Cream Cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh spinach
– 1 can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 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 cream cheese, mayonnaise, spinach, artichoke hearts, and garlic. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until smooth and creamy.
3. Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until well coated with the sauce.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, top with grated Parmesan cheese.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Philadelphia Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars
Philadelphia Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Get ready for a rich and creamy cheesecake experience with the added bonus of gooey chocolate chips!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 12 oz (340g) cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, mix crust ingredients until well combined. Press into prepared baking dish.
3. Beat cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, beating after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
4. Pour cheesecake batter over crust. Dollop chocolate chips on top of cheesecake.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until center is set.
6. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Philadelphia Jalapeño Popper Stuffed Chicken
A twist on the classic popper, this recipe stuffs chicken breasts with a creamy Philadelphia cream cheese filling infused with jalapeños for a spicy kick. Perfect for a unique dinner or game-day gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 (8 oz) block of Philadelphia cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh jalapeños
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, chopped jalapeños, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the cream cheese mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed chicken and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Philadelphia Cream Cheese Frosting for Red Velvet Cake
Elevate your red velvet cake with this tangy and creamy frosting made with Philadelphia cream cheese. This classic combination is a match made in heaven!
Ingredients:
– 8 ounces Philadelphia cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2-4 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until fully incorporated.
3. Beat in the vanilla extract.
4. Add the heavy cream or milk, starting with 2 tablespoons 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:
– Prep time: 10 minutes
– Total time: 15 minutes
Philadelphia Bacon Ranch Cheese Ball
This creamy cheese ball combines the flavors of Philadelphia cream cheese, crispy bacon, and tangy ranch seasoning for a deliciously addictive snack or party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 8 ounces Philadelphia cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup ranch seasoning
– 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, ranch seasoning, and crumbled bacon. Mix until smooth.
3. Transfer the mixture to a lightly floured surface or a piece of parchment paper.
4. Shape into a ball, about 6 inches in diameter.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until slightly puffed and lightly browned.
6. Remove from oven and sprinkle with chopped parsley.
7. Serve warm, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Philadelphia Creamy Mushroom Alfredo Sauce
Elevate your pasta dishes with this decadent and flavorful sauce featuring sautéed mushrooms and a velvety cream base. Perfect for special occasions or a comforting weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz (225g) mushrooms (button, cremini, or shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons (30ml) butter
– 1/4 cup (60ml) Philadelphia Cream Cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup (60ml) grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add mushrooms; sauté until tender and lightly browned (5-7 minutes).
3. Remove from heat; stir in Philadelphia Cream Cheese until smooth.
4. Gradually whisk in Parmesan cheese and heavy cream until well combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Simmer over low heat, whisking occasionally, for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes
Philadelphia Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake
Experience the perfect blend of fall flavors with this creamy and aromatic cheesecake, infused with the iconic taste of Philadelphia cream cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 ounces Philadelphia cream cheese, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix crust ingredients until well combined. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese and sugars until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Stir in pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
5. Pour cheesecake batter into the prepared pan over the crust.
6. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
7. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Philadelphia Cinnamon Roll Cream Cheese Danish
This recipe combines the flavors of cinnamon rolls and cheesecake to create a sweet and satisfying breakfast or brunch treat. With a flaky pastry crust, gooey cream cheese filling, and warm cinnamon roll spices, this danish is sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 1 package frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 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 floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a small bowl, mix cream cheese, sugar, cinnamon, and salt until smooth.
4. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border.
5. Fold the edges of the pastry up over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
6. Brush the egg wash over the pastry and sprinkle with confectioners’ sugar.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Philadelphia Loaded Baked Potato Dip
Get ready to elevate your snack game with this creamy, cheesy, and utterly delicious dip inspired by the classic Philly cheesesteak. This loaded baked potato dip is perfect for game day gatherings or casual get-togethers.
Ingredients:
– 1 (16 oz) container of sour cream
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup diced cooked chicken
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 (16 oz) container of cream cheese, softened
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine sour cream, cheddar cheese, chicken, scallions, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth.
3. Add softened cream cheese and mix until fully incorporated.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until warm and bubbly.
5. Serve with tortilla chips, crackers, or veggies.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Philadelphia Creamy Mac and Cheese with Breadcrumbs
A classic comfort food dish gets a crunchy twist with the addition of breadcrumbs. This creamy macaroni and cheese recipe is easy to make and sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Slowly add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
5. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
6. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted.
7. Add cooked macaroni, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
8. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with breadcrumbs.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Philadelphia Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Parfait
Elevate your dessert game with this refreshing and tangy Philadelphia Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Parfait, perfect for warm weather or any occasion. Layers of creamy cheesecake, sweet blueberries, and citrusy lemon curd create a delightful treat that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup blueberries, fresh or frozen
– 1/4 cup lemon curd (homemade or store-bought)
– Whipped cream and additional blueberries for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare the crust by mixing crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl. Press into a 9×13-inch dish.
3. In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth, then add sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Pour over crust.
4. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until set. Let cool completely.
5. Assemble parfait by layering blueberries, lemon curd, and whipped cream (if using).
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
Philadelphia Cream Cheese Stuffed Peppers
Transform ordinary bell peppers into a decadent treat with this simple recipe featuring the creamy richness of Philadelphia cream cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 8 ounces Philadelphia cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers, removing seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, chopped parsley, and grated cheddar cheese. Mix until smooth.
4. Stuff each pepper with the cream cheese mixture, filling to the top.
5. Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Philadelphia Caramel Apple Cheesecake Pie
Experience a delightful twist on classic cheesecake with this Philadelphia Caramel Apple Cheesecake Pie, featuring tender apples and a gooey caramel sauce.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 6 tablespoons melted butter
For the filling:
– 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups sliced apples (Granny Smith or your preferred variety)
– 1/4 cup caramel sauce
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare the crust by mixing crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add eggs one at a time. Mix in sugar, sour cream, and vanilla extract.
4. Arrange apple slices on top of the cheesecake batter.
5. Drizzle caramel sauce over the apples.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
7. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Philadelphia Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Experience the rich flavors of Philadelphia with these creamy garlic mashed potatoes that will elevate your comfort food game.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
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, heavy cream, cheddar cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or a fork until they’re smooth and creamy.
3. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Philadelphia Oreo Cheesecake Bites
These bite-sized cheesecakes combine the classic flavors of Philadelphia cream cheese with the crunch of Oreos. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or just a sweet treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 12-15 Oreo cookies, crushed
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, mix crumbs and sugar. Add melted butter; stir until combined.
3. Press about 1 tablespoon of crust mixture into each liner.
4. Beat cream cheese and confectioners’ sugar until smooth. Add vanilla extract; mix well.
5. Spoon cheesecake batter over crusts. Top with crushed Oreos.
6. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until edges are set.
7. Let cool completely before serving. Dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Philadelphia Cream Cheese and Chive Stuffed Mushrooms
A decadent twist on a classic appetizer, these stuffed mushrooms combine the richness of Philadelphia cream cheese with the pungency of chives.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 8 ounces Philadelphia cream cheese, softened
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together the cream cheese and chives until well combined.
3. Place a spoonful of the cream cheese mixture into each mushroom cap, dividing it evenly among the caps.
4. Sprinkle salt and pepper over the filling.
5. Arrange the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the creamy goodness of Philadelphia! This collection of recipes features 20 delicious dishes that showcase the rich and tangy flavor of Philadelphia cream cheese. From sweet treats like cheesecake bars and pumpkin spice cheesecake, to savory delights like garlic herb dip and creamy pasta sauces, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a classic cheesesteak fan or just looking for inspiration in the kitchen, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
