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cream cheese.

VegetarianVeganGluten-freeDairy-freeNut-freePeanut-freeSoy-freeEgg-freeShellfish-freeHoney-freeAlcohol-freeFermented

ALSO KNOWN AS

creamcheesekrim chiz

Recipes with cream cheese + Add to pantry

SERVING

CALORIES

342

PROTEIN

6.2g

CARBS

4.1g

FAT

34.2g

FIBER

NUTRITION PROFILE · per 100 g

Everything in this ingredient.

MACRONUTRIENTS

Calories342kcal—

Protein6.2g12%

Carbohydrates4.1g1%

Fiber0g0%

Sugar3.2g6%

Total fat34.2g44%

Saturated fat21.5g108%

Trans fat0.17g—

Cholesterol110mg37%

Water53.8g—

MINERALS

Sodium317mg14%

Potassium130mg3%

Calcium93mg7%

Iron0.30mg2%

Magnesium1.3mg0%

Phosphorus15.5mg1%

Zinc0.07mg1%

Copper0mg0%

Manganese0mg0%

Selenium1.3µg2%

VITAMINS

Vitamin A306µg34%

Vitamin C0.60mg1%

Vitamin D0.60µg3%

Vitamin E0.12mg1%

Vitamin K1.0µg1%

Thiamin (B1)0mg0%

Riboflavin (B2)0.03mg2%

Niacin (B3)0.01mg0%

Pantothenic acid (B5)0.08mg2%

Vitamin B60.01mg1%

Folate (B9)1.3µg0%

Vitamin B120.03µg1%

%DV based on a 2,000 cal diet. Source: USDA FoodData Central. A dash in the %DV column means there’s no established Daily Value for that nutrient.

MEASUREMENT CONVERSIONS

How much is what.

1 cup232g

1 tablespoon14.5g

1 teaspoon4.8g

1 oz28.4g

1 lb453.6g

1 ml1g

1 liter966.7g

HEALTH BENEFITS

Why eat it.

✓Good source of Vitamin A, which is essential for vision and immune function.
✓Provides calcium and phosphorus, important for bone health.
✓Contains some beneficial bacteria from the fermentation process, which may support gut health.

COOKING TIPS

In the kitchen.

1For smooth, lump-free dips and frostings, allow cream cheese to soften to room temperature before mixing.
2When adding to hot sauces, temper it by whisking a small amount of the hot liquid into the cream cheese before adding it to the main pot to prevent curdling.
3Use full-fat, block-style cream cheese for baking cheesecakes to ensure a rich, dense, and creamy texture.

STORAGE

Keep it fresh.

Keep refrigerated at or below 40°F (4°C) in its original, sealed container.
Once opened, wrap tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container and consume within 7-10 days for best quality.
Cream cheese can be frozen for up to 2 months, though its texture may change slightly upon thawing, making it best for cooked applications.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions.

Is cream cheese healthy?

Cream cheese is a good source of Vitamin A, which supports vision and immune function, and provides essential minerals like calcium. However, it is high in calories and saturated fat, so it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Is cream cheese keto-friendly?

Yes, cream cheese is very keto-friendly because it is high in fat (34.2g per 100g) and low in carbohydrates (4.08g per 100g). It is a popular ingredient in low-carb recipes for sauces, desserts, and snacks.

How much protein is in cream cheese?

Cream cheese contains approximately 6.15g of protein per 100g. While it provides some protein, it is not considered a high-protein dairy source compared to options like cottage cheese or Greek yogurt.

Can you freeze cream cheese?

You can freeze cream cheese, but the texture will change from smooth to grainy and crumbly once thawed. It is best used for cooking or baking after freezing rather than as a spread for bagels.

Is cream cheese lactose-free?

No, cream cheese is a dairy product and contains lactose. However, the fermentation process and high fat content mean it has less lactose than fluid milk, which some people with mild sensitivities may tolerate.

How long does cream cheese last after opening?

Once opened, cream cheese typically stays fresh for 7 to 14 days in the refrigerator. To maximize shelf life, always use a clean knife to prevent bacterial contamination and keep the container tightly sealed.

What is a good substitute for cream cheese?

Neufchâtel cheese is the closest substitute with lower fat content. For baking, mascarpone or strained Greek yogurt can work, while silken tofu or cashew-based spreads are popular vegan alternatives.

Is cream cheese gluten-free?

Plain cream cheese is naturally gluten-free. However, some flavored varieties or low-fat versions may contain thickeners or stabilizers derived from gluten, so it is important to check the ingredient label.

How can you tell if cream cheese has spoiled?

Signs of spoilage include visible mold, a sour or pungent odor, and a change in color to yellow or grey. If the texture becomes excessively slimy or the liquid separates significantly, it should be discarded.

Is cream cheese safe to eat during pregnancy?

Yes, most commercially produced cream cheese is made from pasteurized milk, which is safe for consumption during pregnancy. Always check the label to ensure the product is pasteurized to avoid the risk of foodborne illness.

RECIPES