Are you a fan of Philadelphia cream cheese? Whether you use it to make a classic cheesecake, spread it on bagels, or add it to your favorite pasta dish, this beloved cream cheese can elevate any recipe. In this article, we’ll share 20 delicious Philadelphia cream cheese recipes that are perfect for every occasion – from breakfast and brunch to dinner and dessert. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a show-stopping centerpiece, these creative uses for Philly cream cheese will inspire your next culinary adventure.
From sweet treats like cheesecake and muffins to savory dishes like pasta and stuffed chicken breast, we’ve got you covered with these mouthwatering recipes. So go ahead, get creative in the kitchen, and experience the versatility of Philadelphia cream cheese for yourself!
Classic Philadelphia Cream Cheese Cheesecake
Classic Philadelphia Cream Cheese Cheesecake Recipe
This iconic cheesecake recipe combines the creamy richness of Philadelphia cream cheese with a buttery graham cracker crust and a velvety smooth filling. Perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
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 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup granulated sugar
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 until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add sugar and beat until combined.
5. Pour filling over crust and smooth top.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
7. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Philadelphia Cream Cheese Frosting for Red Velvet Cake
This tangy and creamy frosting is a perfect match for the rich, velvety red velvet cake. With the addition of cream cheese, this frosting adds an extra layer of depth and complexity to the classic combination.
Ingredients:
– 8 ounces Philadelphia cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
2. Add the softened butter and beat until well combined.
3. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until smooth and creamy.
4. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Use immediately or refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None
Creamy Philadelphia Cheese Dip with Garlic and Herbs
Elevate your snack game with this rich and flavorful dip, perfect for vegetables, crackers, or chips.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) block of Philadelphia cream cheese, softened
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried parsley
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese and minced garlic. Mix until smooth.
3. Add olive oil, parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Mix well.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or ramekin.
5. If using cheddar cheese, sprinkle on top of the dip.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until warm and bubbly.
7. Serve with your favorite dippers.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Philadelphia Cream Cheese Stuffed French Toast
Elevate your breakfast game with this decadent treat featuring the iconic flavors of Philadelphia cream cheese and rich, buttery bread.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of Challah or brioche bread
– 1/2 cup Philadelphia cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– Cinnamon or nutmeg for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Spread half of the cream cheese mixture onto the unbuttered side of two bread slices.
4. Top with the remaining bread slices, buttered-side up, creating a sandwich.
5. In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs.
6. Dip each stuffed French toast sandwich into the eggs, coating evenly.
7. Cook in a non-stick skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
8. Serve warm and dust with cinnamon or nutmeg, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Philadelphia Cream Cheese and Smoked Salmon Bagels
Start your day with a flavorful and elegant breakfast treat that combines the richness of cream cheese, the smokiness of salmon, and the crunch of toasted bagels.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of Philadelphia Cream Cheese (8 oz), softened
– 1/2 cup of smoked salmon, flaked
– 4 bagels, toasted
– 1 tablespoon of capers, chopped
– 1 tablespoon of thinly sliced red onion
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Spread a layer of Philadelphia Cream Cheese on each toasted bagel.
2. Top the cream cheese with a spoonful of flaked smoked salmon.
3. Sprinkle chopped capers and thinly sliced red onion over the salmon.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Note: You can also add some fresh dill or chives on top for extra flavor and color.
Philadelphia Cream Cheese and Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast
Elevate your chicken game with this creamy and flavorful stuffed breast recipe! A perfect combination of tangy Philadelphia cream cheese, wilted spinach, and tender chicken.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 8 oz Philadelphia cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, chopped spinach, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Lay the 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 breasts and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Philadelphia Cream Cheese Mashed Potatoes
Elevate your mashed potatoes game with this decadent recipe that combines the classic comfort food with the luxuriousness of Philadelphia cream cheese.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large Russet potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 8 ounces Philadelphia cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, chives, or grated cheddar for added flavor
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, cream cheese, milk, salt, and pepper.
3. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or a fork until smooth and creamy, adding more milk if needed to achieve your desired consistency.
4. Taste and adjust the seasoning as necessary. Serve hot, garnished with chopped chives or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Philadelphia Cream Cheese and Chive Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with this creamy and savory twist on classic stuffed mushrooms. Rich Philadelphia cream cheese is paired with the pungency of chives for a flavor combination that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 8 oz Philadelphia cream cheese, softened
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together the cream cheese, chives, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Arrange mushroom caps on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture onto each mushroom cap, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the filling.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Philadelphia Cream Cheese and Bacon Wrapped Jalapeños
Elevate your snack game with this sweet and spicy combination of creamy cheese, crispy bacon, and fiery jalapeños. Perfect for parties or a quick indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 jalapeño peppers
– 8 oz Philadelphia cream cheese, softened
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the tops off the jalapeños and carefully remove the seeds and membranes.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese and crumbled bacon. Mix until well combined.
4. Stuff each jalapeño pepper with the cream cheese mixture, dividing it evenly among the peppers.
5. Wrap each stuffed pepper with a slice of cooked bacon, securing it with toothpicks if needed.
6. Place the wrapped peppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the bacon is crispy.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Philadelphia Cream Cheese and Pumpkin Spice Muffins
Moist and flavorful, these muffins combine the richness of cream cheese with the warmth of pumpkin spice, perfect for a cozy fall treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup Philadelphia cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add butter and mix until combined.
4. Beat in pumpkin puree, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; stir until just combined.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
7. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Philadelphia Cream Cheese and Strawberry Crepes
Treat your taste buds to a delightful fusion of sweet strawberries and tangy cream cheese, wrapped in delicate crepes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– Philadelphia Cream Cheese (8 oz), softened
– Fresh strawberries, sliced
– Confectioner’s sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, eggs, milk, and salt.
2. Heat a small non-stick pan over medium heat.
3. Pour in 1/4 cup of batter and tilt to evenly coat the pan.
4. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until edges start to curl.
5. Loosen with a spatula and flip. Cook for another minute.
6. Repeat with remaining batter, making about 8 crepes.
7. Spread softened Philadelphia Cream Cheese on each crepe, leaving a small border around the edges.
8. Top with sliced strawberries and dust with confectioner’s sugar.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (includes crepe-making and assembly)
Enjoy your delightful strawberry crepes filled with creamy goodness!
Philadelphia Cream Cheese and Caramel Apple Dip
Elevate your snack game with this irresistible dip that combines the tanginess of Philadelphia Cream Cheese with the sweetness of caramel apples. Perfect for parties, movie nights, or simply a sweet treat.
Ingredients:
– 8 ounces Philadelphia Cream Cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2-3 caramel apples (depending on size), chopped into bite-sized pieces
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
2. Gradually add the granulated and brown sugars; mix until combined.
3. Add the softened butter and vanilla extract; mix until creamy.
4. Stir in the chopped caramel apples.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled, accompanied by crackers, chips, or fruit.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (hands-on time)
Philadelphia Cream Cheese and Crab Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this decadent recipe that combines the richness of Philadelphia cream cheese with the sweetness of crab meat.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo shells
– 8 oz. Philly cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup lump crab meat
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook shells according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, crab meat, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. Mix until well combined.
4. Stuff each shell with the cream cheese-crab mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the shells and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Philadelphia Cream Cheese and Tomato Basil Pasta
A creamy and flavorful pasta dish that combines the richness of Philadelphia cream cheese with the brightness of fresh tomato and basil.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine)
– 1 cup Philadelphia cream cheese, softened
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves 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, garlic, and a pinch of salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the cheese is melted and smooth.
3. Add cherry tomatoes and basil to the skillet. Stir to combine and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the tomatoes release their juices.
4. Combine cooked pasta and tomato-basil mixture in the skillet. Toss to coat the pasta evenly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Philadelphia Cream Cheese and Blueberry Pancakes
Start your day off right with a stack of fluffy blueberry pancakes infused with the tangy creaminess of Philadelphia Cream Cheese. This unique twist on classic pancakes is sure to become a morning favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons Philadelphia Cream Cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon melted butter
– Fresh blueberries, for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, combine milk, egg, and softened Cream Cheese. Whisk until smooth.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Drop 1/4 cupfuls of batter onto the skillet or griddle.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface. Flip and cook an additional 1-2 minutes.
7. Serve warm with melted butter and fresh blueberries, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Philadelphia Cream Cheese and Chocolate Chip Cookies
Elevate your cookie game with the addition of creamy Philadelphia cream cheese! This unique twist on a classic favorite yields a chewy, gooey, and indulgently delicious treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup packed brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 8 oz Philadelphia cream cheese, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, brown sugar, and granulated sugar.
3. In a large bowl, beat the butter and cream cheese until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
5. Stir in chocolate chips.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes per batch
Philadelphia Cream Cheese and Herb Spread for Crackers
Elevate your snacking game with this creamy and flavorful spread, perfect for crackers or vegetables. This easy-to-make recipe combines the richness of Philadelphia cream cheese with the freshness of herbs.
Ingredients:
– 8 ounces Philadelphia cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and chopped herbs. Mix until smooth.
2. Add the lemon zest and mix well.
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 in just a few minutes of mixing.
Serve:
Spread on crackers, vegetables, or use as a dip. Enjoy!
Philadelphia Cream Cheese and Avocado Toast
Elevate your breakfast or snack game with this easy-to-make, creamy, and delicious toast recipe. The combination of smooth avocado and tangy Philadelphia cream cheese is a match made in heaven!
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of whole grain bread (toasted)
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 2 tbsp Philadelphia cream cheese, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: red pepper flakes for some heat
Instructions:
1. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
2. Spread the mashed avocado on top of the toast.
3. In a small bowl, mix the Philadelphia cream cheese with a pinch of salt and pepper until smooth.
4. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the avocado.
5. Sprinkle with red pepper flakes if desired for an extra kick.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Philadelphia Cream Cheese and Lemon Glazed Pound Cake
Elevate your dessert game with this moist and flavorful pound cake smothered in a tangy lemon glaze infused with the richness of Philadelphia cream cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 large eggs, at room temperature
– 2 teaspoons grated lemon zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 8 ounces Philadelphia cream cheese, softened
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar. Add butter and mix until just combined.
3. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by lemon zest and juice.
4. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
5. While cake is still warm, prepare glaze by beating cream cheese with confectioners’ sugar until smooth.
6. Drizzle glaze over cooled cake and dust with confectioners’ sugar if desired.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Philadelphia Cream Cheese and Roasted Red Pepper Dip
A flavorful and vibrant dip that combines the richness of Philadelphia cream cheese with the sweet, smoky flavor of roasted red peppers.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz Philadelphia cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup roasted red pepper, diced (see note)
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise. Mix until smooth.
2. Add the diced roasted red pepper, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives, if desired.
Cooking Time:
– Prep time: 10 minutes
– Chill time: 30 minutes
– Total time: 40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the rich and creamy goodness of Philadelphia cream cheese! From sweet treats like cheesecakes and muffins, to savory dishes like stuffed chicken breasts and pasta, these 20 recipes showcase the versatility of this iconic spread. Whether you’re looking for a classic dessert or a unique twist on a favorite snack, there’s something here for every occasion. With flavors ranging from strawberry to blueberry to pumpkin spice, you’ll be spoiled for choice with these delicious Philadelphia cream cheese recipes.
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