Are you a fan of creamy, rich, and indulgent desserts? Look no further! Cream cheese is a staple ingredient that can elevate any sweet treat from ordinary to extraordinary. In this article, we’ll dive into 18 decadent cream cheese recipes that will satisfy your cravings and impress your friends. From classic cheesecakes to innovative twists on traditional treats, these mouthwatering desserts are sure to become new favorites.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a culinary newcomer, our collection of cream cheese recipes has something for everyone. With flavors ranging from tart and fruity to rich and chocolatey, there’s no shortage of inspiration to get your creative juices flowing. So go ahead, indulge in these sweet treats, and let the magic of cream cheese take center stage.
Classic New York Cheesecake
Classic New York Cheesecake Recipe
A classic dessert that never goes out of style, this rich and creamy cheesecake is a staple of American cuisine. With its dense, velvety texture and subtle sweetness, it’s sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
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, separated
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the crust: Mix crumbs and sugar in a bowl. Stir in melted butter until combined.
3. Press crust mixture into a 9-inch springform pan.
4. Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add granulated sugar to the cheesecake batter, beating until just combined.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
Cooking Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Strawberry Cream Cheese Tart
This sweet and tangy tart combines the freshness of strawberries with the richness of cream cheese, perfect for springtime gatherings or special occasions. With a simple crust and a creamy filling, this dessert is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup sliced strawberries
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar. Add butter and mix until a crumbly dough forms.
2. Press the dough into a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
3. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Arrange sliced strawberries on top of baked crust. Pour cream cheese mixture over strawberries.
5. Drizzle lemon juice over the filling and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes or until filling is set.
Cooking Time: 43-50 minutes
Red Velvet Cream Cheese Brownies
These rich, fudgy brownies combine the classic flavors of red velvet cake with a tangy cream cheese swirl. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 and 1/2 sticks unsalted butter, plus more for greasing
– 2 cups sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 cup red velvet cake mix
– 1 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, and red velvet cake mix.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
5. Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan. Top with dollops of cream cheese mixture (see below).
6. Cover with remaining batter. Smooth top.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Cream Cheese Mixture:
1. Beat softened cream cheese and confectioners’ sugar until smooth.
2. Spread dollops on top of the brownie batter before adding remaining batter.
No-Bake Blueberry Cheesecake Bars
These no-bake blueberry cheesecake bars are a perfect dessert for warm weather, requiring only a few ingredients and minimal effort. The result is a creamy, tangy, and sweet treat that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix crumbs and sugar; add butter and stir until combined.
2. Press mixture into a lined 8-inch square baking dish.
3. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth; add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing well.
4. Fold in blueberries.
5. Pour cheesecake mixture over crust; refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
6. If using pecans, sprinkle on top before serving.
Cooking Time: None (no-bake)
Cream Cheese Stuffed French Toast
Elevate your breakfast game with this sweet and savory twist on classic French toast. Cream cheese stuffed inside a crispy bread, topped with fresh fruit and maple syrup – what’s not to love?
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of Challah or brioche bread
– 8oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– Fresh fruit (strawberries, blueberries, etc.)
– Maple syrup
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together eggs and milk.
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, until golden brown.
5. While toasting, mix softened cream cheese with powdered sugar in a small bowl.
6. Spread a tablespoon of cream cheese mixture onto each toasted bread slice.
7. Top with fresh fruit and drizzle with maple syrup. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pumpkin Cream Cheese Roll
Get ready to delight your taste buds with this seasonal treat! This Pumpkin Cream Cheese Roll combines the warmth of pumpkin puree with the tanginess of cream cheese, all wrapped up in a buttery pastry.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pumpkin puree
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine pumpkin puree, cream cheese, sugar, flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix until smooth.
3. Add melted butter and beaten egg; mix until combined.
4. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
5. Spread the pumpkin mixture evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border on each side.
6. Roll up the pastry tightly, starting from one end. Place seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown. Dust with confectioners’ sugar if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Lemon Cream Cheese Pound Cake
Brighten up your dessert game with this refreshing lemon cream cheese pound cake! Moist and flavorful, it’s the perfect treat for springtime gatherings or as a sweet indulgence any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups (210g) granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs, at room temperature
– 2 teaspoons grated lemon zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup (240ml) cream cheese, softened
– 2 3/4 cups (315g) all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
3. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by lemon zest and juice.
4. Beat in cream cheese until smooth.
5. Gradually add flour and baking powder; mix until just combined.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Raspberry Swirl Cheesecake Cookies
These chewy cookies combine the flavors of cheesecake and raspberries in a delicious swirl design, perfect for a special occasion or as a sweet treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup raspberry jam
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Spoon tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Dollop a small amount of raspberry jam on top of each ball, then swirl with a knife or spatula to create a marbled design.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Chocolate Chip Cream Cheese Danish
Elevate your breakfast or brunch game with this rich and indulgent Chocolate Chip Cream Cheese Danish recipe, featuring a flaky pastry crust, creamy cheese filling, and sweet chocolate chips.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of puff pastry, thawed
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup melted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Cut into 4 equal squares.
3. In a bowl, mix cream cheese, sugar, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth. Stir in chocolate chips.
4. Place a spoonful of the cheese mixture onto one half of each pastry square, leaving a 1/2-inch border.
5. Fold the other half over the filling to form a triangle. Press edges together with a fork to seal.
6. Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Banana Cream Cheese Bread
This sweet bread is perfect for a snack or dessert, filled with the natural sweetness of bananas and the tanginess of cream cheese.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, cream cheese, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Oreo Cream Cheese Truffles
Oreo Cream Cheese Truffles: A Delicious Treat
These bite-sized treats combine the classic flavors of Oreos and cream cheese to create a sweet and tangy indulgence perfect for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create these tasty truffles in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) block of cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1/4 cup crushed Oreos
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
2. Gradually add in the powdered sugar and mix until well combined.
3. Stir in the crushed Oreos and vanilla extract.
4. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
5. Place the truffles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (no cooking required)
Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Moist and flavorful carrot cake pairs perfectly with the tangy cream cheese frosting in this beloved dessert. Perfect for special occasions or just a sweet treat any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup grated carrots
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
– Cream cheese frosting ingredients: 8 ounces cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine sugar, eggs, carrots, and walnuts (if using). Mix well.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool completely.
7. For frosting, beat cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
Cooking Time: 60-65 minutes
Cherry Cream Cheese Pie
This classic dessert combines the richness of cream cheese with the sweetness of cherry filling, all wrapped up in a flaky pastry crust. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a show-stopping pie that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup cherry filling (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 pie crust
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
3. Add heavy cream and mix until combined.
4. Roll out pie crust and place in a 9-inch pie dish.
5. Pour cream cheese mixture into the pie crust.
6. Top with cherry filling.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Cinnamon Roll Cream Cheese Dip
This indulgent dip is a game-changer for any gathering. With the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls, it’s sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.
Ingredients:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
3. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until combined.
4. Add the heavy cream and mix until creamy.
5. Stir in the cinnamon and vanilla extract.
6. Transfer the dip to a baking dish or a 9×13 inch pan.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden brown.
8. Serve warm with your favorite dippers, such as graham crackers, fruit, or cookies.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Peanut Butter Cream Cheese Fudge
This rich and creamy fudge combines the nutty flavor of peanut butter with the tanginess of cream cheese, creating a delightful treat for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create this scrumptious fudge at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120g) light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup (120g) sweetened condensed milk
– 1/4 cup (60g) creamy peanut butter
– 8 ounces (225g) cream cheese, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup (120g) chopped peanuts or peanut butter chips (optional)
Instructions:
1. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and sweetened condensed milk. Place over medium heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the mixture reaches 235°F (118°C) on a candy thermometer.
4. Remove from heat and stir in peanut butter, cream cheese, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
5. Pour into prepared baking dish and let cool to room temperature.
6. If desired, sprinkle with chopped peanuts or peanut butter chips before refrigerating for at least 2 hours.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Tiramisu Cream Cheese Mousse
Elevate your dessert game with this creamy and dreamy tiramisu-inspired mousse, infused with the richness of cream cheese. Perfect for a special occasion or a spontaneous treat.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (60g) ladyfingers, crushed
– 1/4 cup (30g) unsweetened cocoa powder
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
2. Add heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Beat until stiff peaks form.
3. Fold in crushed ladyfingers and cocoa powder until well combined.
4. Spoon the mousse into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
5. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None
Apple Cream Cheese Streusel Muffins
Get ready to delight your taste buds with the perfect blend of autumnal flavors! These moist and flavorful muffins combine tender apples, creamy cream cheese, and a crunchy streusel topping for a delightful breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups diced apples (Granny Smith or other variety)
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
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, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract; stir until just combined.
4. Fold in diced apples.
5. For the streusel topping: Mix softened cream cheese with granulated sugar and chopped walnuts (if using). Drop spoonfuls of mixture onto muffin batter.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake
This decadent dessert combines the creamy richness of white chocolate with the sweet-tart flavor of raspberries, all on a buttery graham cracker crust. A perfect treat for any occasion!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Mix crust ingredients; press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth; add white chocolate chips and beat until combined.
4. Add sour cream and vanilla extract; mix well.
5. Pour cheesecake batter into prepared pan.
6. Top with fresh raspberries.
7. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until edges are set.
8. Let cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar (optional).
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Summary
Indulge in these 18 decadent cream cheese recipes that will satisfy your sweet tooth. From classic desserts like New York cheesecake and lemon pound cake to creative twists like strawberry tart and cinnamon roll dip, there’s something for everyone. Other highlights include no-bake blueberry bars, chocolate chip danish, and Oreo truffles. Whether you’re a fan of fruity flavors or rich and creamy treats, these recipes are sure to impress. So go ahead, get creative, and treat yourself to a world of dessert delights!
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