What is the best way to soften cream cheese?

To quickly soften cream cheese, place completely unwrapped package of cream cheese in a microwaveable bowl. Microwave on HIGH 15 sec. or just until softened. Add 15 sec. for each additional package of cream cheese.

Why do recipes call for softened cream cheese in desserts?

Using softened cream cheese helps cream cheese and sugar blend completely and be free of lumps, which is the key to success since it’s much harder to smooth out the lumps in batter once eggs are added.

What is the best way to crush cookies for the crust?

Place cookies in resealable bag; close top. Using rolling pin or bottom of heavy pot, gently crush cookies. Alternatively, a food processor can be used instead of crushing by hand. Break cookies into smaller size (if sheets of graham crackers were used); place in food processor. Pulse in one-second increment until all cookies are finely crushed.

How can I tell if my cheesecake is done?

The edge should be slightly puffed, and it will be set except for a small area in the center that will be soft and jiggly if cheesecake is done. To avoid overbaking a cheesecake, check for doneness at the minimum baking time by gently shaking the pan.

Do I need to refrigerate cookies that contain cream cheese?

Dessert containing cream cheese, whether baked or unbaked, should be covered and stored in the refrigerator. Use within 5 days.

I don’t have a springform pan. What else can I use for baking cheesecake?

A 10-inch cast iron skillet sprayed with cooking spray can be used in place of 9-inch springform pan. Since batter will come up closer to the top of skillet, be sure to place skillet on sheet pan before placing in oven.

I have a half-brick of cream cheese left over. What else can I use it for?

Try incorporating it into creamy sauce for your family favorite chicken dishes. Cut cream cheese into cubes for easier melt. Here are some of our favorite recipes.

Is there a surprising way to use cream cheese in a recipe?

Cream cheese can be added to your ice cream batter for extra creaminess & deliciousness! Try our No-Churn Blueberry Cheesecake Ice Cream, no ice cream machine needed!

How do I melt cream cheese?

When melting cream cheese into your favorite sauce or dish to make it extra creamy, we recommend cutting the cream cheese into small cubes for a quick and easy melt. Once it's cubed, stir cream cheese into the dish you are making and whisk until melted completely.

What is the difference between Philadelphia Cream Cheese Spread and Philadelphia 250g Brick?

PHILADELPHIA Cream Cheese in brick form is our product that is used primarily in cooking and baking. Although the brick form can also be used for spreading, PHILADELPHIA Cream Cheese Spread in the soft tub is a more easily spreadable product. The Philly Cream Cheese Spreads were developed for applications in which more "spreadability" is required, such as spreading on toast or a bagel, snacking on crackers, or dipping vegetables.

What is the difference between cream cheese and neufchatel cream cheese?

Neufchatel cream cheese is a soft, mild, uncured cheese similar in flavor and texture to cream cheese but with less fat and more moisture.

Can I use Philly after the "Use By" date?

The product should be consumed by the "Best When Used By" date on the packaging. We cannot assure freshness after that date because the taste and texture may have deteriorated.

We do not recommend freezing the product, not because it is a health or safety hazard, but because freezing can affect the quality of the product.

How long can I store unopened Philly?

We recommend storing this product in the refrigerator at normal refrigeration temperatures of 40 degrees Fahrenheit. We recommend that you consume the product up until the "Best When Used By" date on the package. We don't recommend consuming after that date because we cannot guarantee optimum freshness and quality.

How long can I store opened Philly?

Re-seal and return product to refrigerator immediately after serving/using. Keep in refrigerator under normal refrigerator temperatures of 40 degrees at all times. Product should be used within 10 days after opening or by the date stamped on the package, whichever comes first. We do not recommend consuming this product once the date has expired because we cannot ensure the same quality and texture if it is consumed after that date.

How long can I store recipes made with Philly?

Cakes and cookies made with cream cheese do not require refrigeration. Baked cheesecakes that contain cream cheese must be refrigerated. Fillings and toppings should be kept refrigerated.

I have an unopened PHILADELPHIA cream cheese product in my refrigerator. How do I know if it's still fresh?

To help you determine the freshness of our products at the time of purchase the words Best When Purchased By, come before the date. We also recommend that this date be used as a guide to help you determine the freshness of our products when being stored in your home. Using a product by this date assures that you will receive the best freshness and flavor of the product.

How do I store cheesecake made with PHILADELPHIA?

Cheesecake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days and can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. We do not recommend freezing any of the following: any recipe using PHILADELPHIA Cream Cheese that also calls for eggs, cheesecakes that contain sour cream, refrigerated or no-bake cheesecakes prepared with gelatin, frosting prepared with Light Neufchatel cheese, recipes that contain a white sauce, gelatin, mayonnaise, or salad dressing.

Cream Cheese FAQ | Kraft Heinz

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