How-To Tips

Cream Cheese 101

How to Soften Cream Cheese

• Place completely unwrapped package of cream cheese in microwaveable bowl.
• Microwave on HIGH 10 sec. or just until softened.
• Add 15 sec. for each additional package of cream cheese.

How to Measure Cream Cheese

• Philly Brick: each package has markings in ounce increments on the foil wrapper for easy measurement, but you can also use a measuring cup to measure softened cream cheese.
• Philly Tub: each 8 oz. tub yields about one cup of cream cheese spread

How to Store Cream Cheese and Cream Cheese Frosted Cakes

• Always store in refrigerator. For bricks that have been opened, rewrap tightly in plastic wrap.
• Cakes filled and/or frosted with cream cheese icing should be stored in the refrigerator.
• Freezing is not recommended.

How to Melt Cream Cheese

Philly melts! Scoop a few spoonfuls of Philly tub or small cubes of Philly brick and follow these helpful hints to melt your Philly into sauces, soups, casseroles, and more.

• Add a few spoonfuls of Philly spread (or cubes of softened Philly brick) to warm sauce or soup and stir or whisk until cream cheese is completely melted.
• Add 1/2 cup of Philly spread (or cubes of softened Philly brick) into a skillet containing 3/4 to 1 cup of hot milk or broth. Stir or whisk constantly until cream cheese is melted. Add 1/2 cup of Philly spread (or cubes of softened Philly brick) to 3 cups of hot cooked mashed potatoes and stir until combined.

How to Substitute one Philly for Another

• PHILADLEPHIA Cream Cheese Flavored Spreads add the same creamy flavorful richness to dishes as regular PHILADELPHIA Cream Cheese Spread. Try varieties like PHILADLEPHIA Chive and Onion or Spinach & Artichoke Cream Cheese Spreads for a simple flavor twist.
• For all of the same great flavor and creaminess, but 1/3 less fat, PHILADELPHIA Neufchatel Cheese can easily be substituted into your favorite dishes.
• In recipes, generally 4 oz. of cubed cream cheese is about equal to 1/2 cup of cream cheese spread.
• It is not recommended to substitute PHILADELPHIA Cream Cheese Spreads (tub) in baked items like cheesecakes or breads.