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Whether you’re spreading it on bagels, using it in savory dips, or adding it to desserts, whipped cream cheese is a versatile spread that can take a dish from ordinary to extraordinary. In this easy-to-follow guide, I’ll show you how to quickly whip a block of Philadelphia cream cheese to fluffy perfection and offer a variety of sweet and savory ways to use your creamy delight.

Overhead photo of a bowl of fluffy cream cheese surrounded by five bagels.

Table of Contents

About this tutorial for whipping cream cheese

While buying a tub of pre-whipped cheese is convenient, making whipped cream cheese at home offers several key advantages. 

First, homemade whipped cream cheese is fresher and free of preservatives, giving it a cleaner, more authentic flavor. 

Second, you can also control the texture, making it as smooth and fluffy as you like. 

And, you can customize the flavor to suit your personal taste—whether you want to add herbs, spices, or a touch of sweetness. 

Plus, I personally think the satisfaction of whipping together your own creamy creation just can’t be beaten! Why settle for store-bought when you can make this Philadelphia whipped cream cheese recipe with just a few simple ingredients in less than 10 minutes?

Why you’ll love this tutorial!

  • Quick and Easy. You can whip cream cheese in just minutes with minimal effort at home. 
  • Homemade Perfection. When you skip the store-bought tubs and make homemade cream cheese it’s fresher tasting and so much more flavorful.
  • Versatile for Any Dish. It’s not just for bagels and English muffins, use it in savory cream cheese recipes, dips, sandwiches, and even sweet desserts—endless options await your tastebuds!
  • Customizable Flavors. Add your own spin with various seasonings, fresh herbs, or sweeteners for a blended cream cheese that fits your taste and needs.
  • Cost-Effective. Those tubs of flavored cream cheeses at the store can get expensive. Save money by making your own version at home! 
Overhead photo of a block of cream cheese and a ramekin of cream.

What is cream cheese whipped?

Whipped cream cheese is simply cream cheese that’s been lightened by whipping air and a little liquid into it. The result is a fluffier, smoother consistency that’s perfect for spreading or incorporating into both savory and sweet dishes.

It’s a super simple ingredient that can be transformed into a host of flavorful recipes, like stuffed mushrooms and cream cheese stuffed french toasts.

Ingredients to whip cream cheese

You can use this basic fluffy cream cheese recipe to create different specialty flavors, from chive cream cheese to walnut and honey cream cheese, and everything in between. Here’s what to grab to make this Philadelphia whipped cream cheese recipe:

  • Cream Cheese: You’ll need an 8-ounce block of room temperature cream cheese for this recipe. Be sure to use full-fat cream cheese for the absolute best texture and taste.
  • Enricher: The secret to perfect whipped cream cheese is to whip the cheese with an enriching ingredient, like Full-fat Greek yogurt, milk, heavy cream, or even sour cream. This addition gives your cheese spread a much lighter, airier, and creamier mouthfeel. Yogurt and sour cream will bring the distinctive tangy flavor to the forefront, while milk and cream will lend richness.

Flavor variations

  • Chive Cream Cheese. If you love the flavor of fresh chives, scallions, and aromatic garlic, then my favorite herbed cream cheese recipe is for you.
  • Smoked Salmon and Capers. For a more gourmet touch, whip the cream cheese with finely chopped smoked salmon, capers, and a little lemon zest. It’s perfect as a spread for loaded bagels.
  • Sweet Vanilla Flavored Cream Cheese. Add a touch of sweetness by mixing in pure vanilla extract and a bit of powdered sugar. This variations makes a fantastic topping for cakes and cupcakes or dip for fruit.
  • Spicy Jalapeño Whipped Cream Cheese. Kick things up a notch with chopped jalapeños, a dash of cumin, and a squeeze of lime. It’s a zesty, creamy spread that works beautifully on bagels and toasts or as a dip for veggies.
  • Cinnamon Honey Whipped Cream Cheese. For a sweet twist, whip in cinnamon and honey. This flavor combination is great for spreading on toast, pancakes, or fruit.
  • Bacon, Cheddar, and Chive Whipped Cream Cheese. If you’re looking for an indulgent twist, fold in crispy bacon bits, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, and fresh snipped chives. I personally love this variation as a filling for deviled eggs and topping for crackers and baked potatoes.
  • Lemon and Dill Fluffy Cream Cheese. For a light and refreshing twist, mix lemon zest fresh dill, and a couple pinches of Greek seasoning or Ranch seasoning into your whipped cream cheese for a perfect spread for fish or as a dip for fresh crudités.
Action photo of a hand mixer whipping a block of cream cheese in a glass mixing bowl.

How to make whipped cream cheese

Whipping cream cheese at home is ridiculously quick and easy. Below is my fool-proof method to getting perfectly fluffy, beautifully creamy cheese every single time:

  1. Beat The Philadelphia Cheese: Cube the cream cheese and place it into a medium bowl. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer with the whisk attachment, beat the cheese on medium speed until it’s creamy, about 1 minute. 
  2. Add Yogurt, Heavy Cream or Milk: Add the yogurt or 2 tablespoons of milk to the bowl and whip on low speed until the cream cheese is light and fluffy, stopping and scraping down the sides and bottom of the bowl with a rubber spatula as needed.
  3. Serve Philadelphia Whipped Cheese: Enjoy cream cheese spread on bagels, English muffins, crackers, or with veggies.

Follow these chef expert tips for the best success!

  • Soften the Cream Cheese First. Be sure to use cream cheese that is at room temperature to ensure it blends smoothly, avoiding lumps. Let it sit out at about 30 minutes for that perfectly fluffy consistency.
  • Use Full Fat Cream Cheese. For the fluffiest texture and best flavor, use full-fat Philadelphia cheese. While you can use low-fat or light cream cheese, it won’t whip up as well and the texture will be denser.
  • Use a Stand Mixer for Quick Work. To quickly and easily incorporate air into the cream cheese, use a stand mixer or electric mixer with a large bowl. Just be sure to stop and scrape the sides of the bowl a few times.
  • Whip Cheese, Then Add Yogurt (or Milk). Make sure you whip the cream cheese before you add any other ingredient! This helps preserve the smooth texture.
  • Get Creative with Flavors and Additions. One of best things about whipping cream cheese at home is the capability to flavor it any way I’d like. Experiment with flavoring ingredients like, minced garlic, crumbled bacon, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red bell peppers, vanilla, and/or honey to create YOUR perfect flavored cream cheese recipe. Just be sure to add any flavoring ingredients after the cheese is whipped.
  • Don’t Over Whip. While you want to get the cheese light and airy, avoid over-whipping the cream cheese which can cause a grainy texture.
  • Consider the Texture You Want. If you’re aiming for a firmer spread, serve the cream cheese straight from the fridge. Or, for a lighter, creamier dip, serve it closer to room temperature.
Overhead photo of beaten cream cheese and Greek yogurt in a mixing bowl.

FAQs: frequently asked questions

You’ve got questions? I’ve got answers! If you have a question you don’t see listed below, please drop them in the comments section. I’m happy to help when I can! 

Is whipped cream cheese the same as regular cream cheese?

While they are similar, they’re not the same thing. Whipped cream cheese is simply cream cheese that’s been aerated (blended) to make the consistency lighter, fluffier, and much easier to spread. It’s often used in spreads, dips, and recipes where a softer texture of cheese is desired.

Can I use light cream cheese for whipping?

While you can use light cream cheese, please note that it will not whip up as fluffy and airy as regular cream cheese due to the lower fat content. For the best results and that delicious light, airy texture, use full-fat cream cheese.

How do I soften cream cheese quickly?

To properly whip cream cheese into a beautifully airy creation, you need to start with soft, room temperature cheese. If you’re short on time, simply cut the cream cheese into small cubes and leave them out on the kitchen counter for 10 to 15 minutes, or until softened.

I do not recommend using the microwave to soften your cream cheese.

How do you whip cream cheese without lumps?

To avoid lumps and clumps, always start with a room temperature cream cheese block. This ensures the cheese blends evenly and smoothly when mixed and blended. Also note, that using a hand mixer or stand mixer will help achieve a smooth, creamy texture quickly.

Why is my whipped cheese lumpy?

Lumps typically happen when the cream cheese is not soft enough. Always ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before attempting to whip it. Also, if you’re whipping the cream cheese mixture by hand with a whisk, switch to a hand or stand mixer.

Can I add milk or cream to make it smoother?

You betcha! This Philadelphia whipped cream cheese recipe uses Greek yogurt, whole milk, or heavy cream to achieve a super smooth, beautifully spreadable consistency. However, you can add more milk, yogurt, or cream if you’re looking for an even softer texture – just do so gradually.

How do I make homemade whipped cream cheese sweet or savory?

For sweet cream cheese, simply add sifted powdered sugar or honey, and enhance it with a little pure vanilla extract and dessert spices like ground cinnamon and nutmeg.

For a savory version, simply mix in minced garlic, fresh herbs, or pantry spices like smoked paprika or garlic powder.

These are just a few ideas to inspire, I definitely recommend experimenting with different flavors to suit your taste!

Do I need a mixer to make fluffy cream cheese?

You can whip cream cheese by hand using a whisk. However – and this is a big however – it will take much more elbow grease. For the easiest work and smoothest results, use an electric mixer or stand mixer to make this fluffy cream cheese recipe.

Overhead photo of a Philadelphia whipped cream cheese in a mixing bowl with a beater.

Serving Philadelphia Whipped cream cheese recipes

Common serving suggestions

  • Bagels. Spread a generous amount of Philadelphia whipped cream cheese on your favorite bagels, like NY style bagels with everything but the bagel seasoning, for a quick, satisfying breakfast or snack. Add toppings like gravlax salmon, tomatoes, pickled red onions, and fresh herbs for extra flavor. Or simply smear it on an egg and cheese bagel.
  • Crackers and Veggies: Serve whipped cream cheese as a creamy dip for crackers, fresh vegetables (crudités), and/or pita chips. It’s perfect for parties and gatherings.
  • Sandwiches: Use creamy cheese as a spread in sandwiches, flour tortilla wraps, or paninis. It pairs well with deli turkey meats, cucumbers, or roasted vegetables for a light yet delicious meal.
  • Cakes and Cupcakes: Use fluffy cream cheese as a frosting for cakes and cupcakes. Its smooth texture and mild flavor create a perfect complement to sweet treats like carrot cake or chocolate velvet cake.
  • Toast: Spread on English muffins and toasted breads like sugar cinnamon toast for a quick and flavorful breakfast. Top with a drizzle of honey or blueberry fruit butter for a sweet twist.

Unique ways to use it

  • Cheese Ball: Whip cream cheese with mixture of fresh herbs, cheese, and spices to make a savory cheese ball. Serve with crackers or oven roasted garlic bread for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
  • Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: Swap out the butter or mayo and spread a thin smear of cream cheese on the outside of your bread before pan-frying for a rich, golden-brown texture.
  • Stuffed Dates: Fill pitted dates with whipped cheese and top with maple candied bacon for an elegant, sweet and savory starter.
  • Dumplings: Use the fluffy cheese as a filling for dumplings and pastries. It pairs perfectly with spinach and artichoke, mushrooms and bacon, and more.

Things to make with cream cheese

Storing leftovers

Storing instructions

  • Refrigeration: Store leftover Philadelphia whipped cream cheese in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. Please note, if you’ve added any fresh herbs or other perishable ingredients, use it within 4 days for the freshest taste.
  • Proper Sealing: Make sure the container is sealed air tight to prevent the cheese from absorbing odors from other foods in the fridge.
  • Before Using: If the creamy cream cheese has thickened in the fridge, simply give it a quick stir and let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes to bring it back to a smooth, super spreadable consistency.

Freezing instructions

While it is technically possible to freeze cream cheese, I do not recommend it. Cream cheese tends to become grainy and lose its creamy consistency during freezing and thawing.

If you absolutely need to freeze it, you can place it in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag, but be prepared for a less desirable texture upon thawing. For best results, stick to storing it in the fridge and use it fresh!

Overhead photo of a bowl of Philadelphia cream cheese whipped with cream.

Now that you know how to whip cream cheese like a pro, it’s time to get creative and try all the delicious ways to use it! Whether you’re making a savory dip or a sweet treat, this homemade whipped cream cheese will become your new kitchen essential.

So, grab that block of cream cheese, whip it up, and let your taste buds enjoy the creamy goodness—don’t forget to share your favorite recipes with us! Until next time, friends, cheers!

Cheyanne

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More recipes for creamy whipped toppings!

Overhead photo of a small bowl of whipped cream cheese with a half dozen bagels on a serving tray.

How to Make Whipped Cream Cheese

Author: Cheyanne Holzworth
Total Time: 5 minutes
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 9 servings
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Whether you’re spreading it on bagels, using it in savory dips, or adding it to desserts, whipped cream cheese is a versatile, spread that can take a dish from ordinary to extraordinary.  In this guide, I’ll show you how to quickly and easily whip a block of Philadelphia cream cheese to fluffy perfection and offer a variety of sweet and savory ways to use your creamy delight.

Equipment

  • 1 Stand Mixer OR Hand Mixer with Medium Bowl – for beating the cream cheese
  • 1 Rubber Spatula – for scraping the bowl

Ingredients 

  • 8 Ounces Block-Style Cream Cheese – at room temperature
  • 3 TBS Greek Yogurt (substitute: 2-3 tablespoons Whole Milk)

Instructions

  • Beat Cream Cheese: Add the cream cheese to a medium bowl. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer with the whisk attachment, beat the cheese on MEDIUM speed until it’s creamy, about 1 minute.
  • Add Yogurt or Milk: Add the yogurt or 2 tablespoons of milk to the bowl and whip on LOW speed until the cream cheese is light and fluffy, stopping and scraping down the sides and bottom of the bowl with a rubber spatula as needed.
    (Note 1: the whipped cream cheese should look very light and fluffy, resembling vanilla frosting or cool whip frosting.)
    (Note 2: If you're wanting to make sweet cream cheese – add the powdered sugar and pure vanilla extract to the bowl along with the yogurt.)
  • Serve Whipped Cream Cheese: Enjoy whipped cream cheese spread on bagels, English muffins, crackers, or with veggies.

Notes

  • Sweet Cream Cheese Spread: You can easily transform this regular Philadelphia whipped cheese into a sweet cream cheese by adding ¼ cup sifted confectioners’ sugar and ¼ tsp pure vanilla extract to the bowl along with the yogurt or milk. Sweet cream cheese is perfect for serving with fresh fruits, cookies, graham crackers, and more.
  • Need to Scale the Recipe? Hover your mouse over the number of servings in the recipe card. You’ll see a sliding scale pop up, you can use that to scale the recipe up or down as needed.
  • Got questions? I’ve got answers! If you ever run into an issue, have a question, or need any clarification – please feel free to drop them in the comments section. I’m happy to help when I can! 
  • Recipe Yield: 18-19 tablespoons
Nutritional information is provided as a courtesy and the nutrition facts are an estimate based upon 9 servings. Exact information will depend upon the brands of ingredients and precise measurements used.

Nutrition

Calories: 30kcal    Carbohydrates: 2g    Protein: 4g    Fat: 0.3g    Saturated Fat: 0.2g    Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.01g    Monounsaturated Fat: 0.1g    Cholesterol: 3mg    Sodium: 179mg    Potassium: 77mg    Sugar: 2g    Vitamin A: 14IU    Calcium: 94mg    Iron: 0.1mg
Course: Condiment
Cuisine: American

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