Are you looking for a way to add some excitement to your meals and snacks? Look no further than flavored cream cheese! This versatile ingredient can be used as a spread, a dip, or even as a base for sauces and marinades. In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious flavored cream cheese recipes that are perfect for every occasion.
From classic combinations like garlic and herb to sweet treats like honey cinnamon, there’s something on this list for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a show-stopping appetizer, these recipes are sure to impress. So go ahead, get creative with your cream cheese, and discover new flavors and possibilities!
Garlic and Herb Cream Cheese Spread
This aromatic spread combines the richness of cream cheese with the pungency of garlic and herbs, perfect for serving with crackers, veggies, or as a dip for your favorite snacks.
Ingredients:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together the cream cheese, garlic, parsley, and chives until well combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or ramekin.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly browned and warm.
6. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Strawberry Swirl Cream Cheese Dip
Add a touch of springtime flavor to your snacks with this luscious strawberry swirl cream cheese dip. Perfect for fruit, graham crackers, or even chips!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups hulled and sliced strawberries
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and beat until combined.
3. Add softened butter and mix until fully incorporated.
4. Stir in sliced strawberries and vanilla extract.
5. Pour mixture onto prepared baking sheet and swirl with a knife or spatula to create a marbled design.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until lightly golden around the edges.
7. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Yield: About 2 cups of dip
Smoked Salmon and Dill Cream Cheese
Elevate your appetizer game with this simple yet impressive combination of smoked salmon, dill cream cheese, and toasted bagels. Perfect for a quick snack or as part of a larger spread.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of smoked salmon (about 6 oz)
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 bagels, toasted
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped fresh dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
2. Slice the smoked salmon into thin pieces.
3. Spread a layer of the dill cream cheese on each toasted bagel.
4. Top with a piece or two of the smoked salmon.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (includes toasting bagels)
Spicy Jalapeño Cream Cheese
Elevate your appetizers or snacks with this flavorful and spicy cream cheese recipe. Perfect for parties, game days, or as a dip for veggies.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2-3 jalapeño peppers, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together cream cheese and mayonnaise until smooth.
3. Add chopped cilantro, jalapeños, and lime juice. Mix well.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or ramekin.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until slightly warm and spreadable.
7. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Honey Cinnamon Cream Cheese
Sweet and Savory Honey Cinnamon Cream Cheese Recipe
Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Cream Cheese
Elevate your snack game with this creamy and flavorful spread, perfect for crackers, bread, or as a dip. This recipe combines the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes with the brightness of fresh basil and the tanginess of cream cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Mix until smooth.
2. Stir in the chopped fresh basil and lemon juice.
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! This spread is ready to go straight from the refrigerator.
Maple Walnut Cream Cheese
Elevate your snack game with this rich and creamy spread featuring the perfect balance of sweet maple syrup and earthy walnuts, all wrapped up in a tangy cream cheese package.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
2. Add the maple syrup and mix until fully incorporated.
3. Stir in the chopped walnuts and vanilla extract.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled on crackers, bread, or as a dip for fruit.
Cooking Time: None required! Simply prepare and chill.
Pumpkin Spice Cream Cheese
Pumpkin Spice Cream Cheese Recipe
Elevate your fall gatherings with this rich and creamy Pumpkin Spice Cream Cheese! Made with simple ingredients, this spread is perfect for topping bagels or crackers, or using as a dip for vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
2. Add the powdered sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
3. Stir in the pumpkin puree until fully incorporated.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (hands-on time only)
Notes:
– You can adjust the amount of pumpkin pie spice to your taste, but start with this amount for a balanced flavor.
– This spread is best served chilled, so be sure to refrigerate before serving. Enjoy!
Blueberry Lemon Cream Cheese
This refreshing dessert combines the sweetness of blueberries with the brightness of lemon, all wrapped up in a creamy cheese package.
Ingredients:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup blueberry preserves
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Fresh blueberries for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
2. Gradually add the sugar and beat until combined.
3. Add the lemon juice and mix well.
4. Stir in the blueberry preserves.
5. Beat in the heavy cream and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
6. Fold in the salt.
7. Spoon into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
8. Chill for at least 2 hours before serving.
9. Garnish with fresh blueberries, if desired.
Cooking Time: None needed! This dessert is best served chilled and enjoyed within a few days of preparation.
Everything Bagel Cream Cheese
Elevate your bagel game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the essence of everything bagels with a tangy cream cheese spread. Perfect for breakfast, snack time, or as a dip for veggies.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz (225g) softened cream cheese
– 1/4 cup (60g) chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp (30g) poppy seeds
– 2 tbsp (30g) sesame seeds
– 1 tsp (5g) garlic powder
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together the cream cheese, parsley, poppy seeds, sesame seeds, and garlic powder until well combined.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Spread the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
6. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chocolate Hazelnut Cream Cheese
Elevate your dessert game with this decadent cream cheese spread, infused with the deep flavors of chocolate and hazelnuts.
Ingredients:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons hazelnut spread (such as Nutella)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth.
2. Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar, beating until combined.
3. Melt the cocoa powder in the microwave for 10-15 seconds; allow to cool slightly.
4. Add the melted cocoa, hazelnut spread, vanilla extract, and salt to the cream cheese mixture. Beat until well combined.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled, or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: None required!
Caramel Apple Cream Cheese
Elevate your snack game with this sweet and tangy treat that combines the crunch of apples with the creaminess of cream cheese and the warmth of caramel.
Ingredients:
– 1 large apple, peeled and sliced
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix cream cheese, butter, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Arrange apple slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Spread a layer of the cream cheese mixture over each apple slice.
5. Drizzle caramel sauce over the top of each apple slice.
6. Sprinkle with salt to taste.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until apples are tender and caramel is bubbly.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper Cream Cheese
Elevate your snack game with this sweet and savory spread. Roasting red peppers brings out their natural sweetness, which pairs perfectly with tangy cream cheese.
Ingredients:
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Place the red peppers on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
3. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until the skin is blistered and charred.
4. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
5. Peel off the skin, discarding it, and place the roasted peppers in a blender or food processor.
6. Add the softened cream cheese and blend until smooth.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve on crackers, bread, or vegetables.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Chive and Onion Cream Cheese
Elevate your snack game with this simple and delicious recipe for Chive and Onion Cream Cheese. Perfect for crackers, bagels, or veggies, this creamy spread is a great addition to any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
– 2 tablespoons finely chopped onion (white or yellow)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped chives, and finely chopped onion.
2. Mix until well combined and smooth, adding salt and pepper to taste as needed.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 5-10 minutes (prep only)
Peanut Butter Cup Cream Cheese
Peanut Butter Cup Cream Cheese: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Spread
This creamy spread combines the rich flavors of peanut butter cups with the tanginess of cream cheese, making it perfect for topping bagels, crackers, or using as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup creamy natural peanut butter
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
2. Add the peanut butter, butter, vanilla extract, and salt to the bowl. Mix until well combined.
3. Continue mixing until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None, as this spread requires no cooking.
Bacon and Cheddar Cream Cheese
Elevate your snack game with this rich and savory spread, combining the flavors of crispy bacon, sharp cheddar, and creamy cream cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup finely chopped cooked bacon (about 2-3 slices)
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix the softened cream cheese until smooth.
2. Add the chopped bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped parsley. 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 or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (mostly hands-off)
Matcha Green Tea Cream Cheese
Add a touch of Japanese elegance to your baked goods with this vibrant Matcha Green Tea Cream Cheese recipe! This creamy spread is perfect for topping crackers, spreading on toast, or using as a filling in cakes and pastries.
Ingredients:
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 tsp matcha green tea powder (ceremonial grade)
• 2 tbsp heavy cream
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese and sugar. Beat until smooth.
2. Add the softened butter and beat until fully incorporated.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the matcha powder and heavy cream until well combined.
4. Add the matcha mixture to the cream cheese mixture and beat until smooth.
5. Stir in the vanilla extract.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None required!
Raspberry White Chocolate Cream Cheese
This sweet and tangy spread combines the richness of white chocolate with the tartness of raspberries and the creaminess of cream cheese, perfect for topping bagels or using as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup fresh raspberries, pureed
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
3. Melt the white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
4. Add the melted white chocolate, raspberry puree, honey, and vanilla extract to the cream cheese. Beat until well combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to an 8-inch square baking dish or a small serving dish.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cucumber Dill Cream Cheese
A refreshing twist on traditional cream cheese, this spread combines the coolness of cucumbers and dill for a perfect snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cucumber
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– Salt to taste
– Optional: lemon zest, garlic powder, or paprika for added flavor
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
2. Add the chopped cucumber and mix until well combined.
3. Stir in the chopped fresh dill.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. If desired, add lemon zest, garlic powder, or paprika for extra flavor.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Serve: With crackers, vegetables, or as a dip for your favorite snacks. Enjoy!
Carrot Cake Cream Cheese
Elevate your dessert game with these rich and creamy carrot cake bars featuring a velvety cream cheese frosting. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or just a sweet treat any time of the day.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup grated carrots
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup powdered sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and eggs until smooth. Add grated carrots and mix well.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Press mixture into prepared baking dish.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Let cool completely before spreading cream cheese frosting (mix softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract).
8. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your snack game with these 20 delicious flavored cream cheese recipes! From classic flavors like garlic and herb to sweet treats like strawberry swirl and caramel apple, there’s something for every occasion. Try adding smoky flair with smoked salmon and dill or spicy kick with jalapeño. For a sweet treat, indulge in honey cinnamon, maple walnut, or pumpkin spice. And don’t forget the savory options, including blueberry lemon, everything bagel, and roasted red pepper. Whatever your taste buds desire, there’s a cream cheese recipe to satisfy!
