Why Cream Cheese Is a Must-Have in Your Kitchen

Cream cheese is silky, creamy, and downright scrumptious. You may have seen it on a bagel or in a dessert but believe us, it does so much more than that! From creaming up pasta sauces to baking cakes, cream cheese can turn a mundane dish into something truly remarkable. If you haven't been adding it to your daily repertoire, it's time to learn why this creamy gem deserves a place in your kitchen permanently.

What Is Cream Cheese?

Cream cheese is a spreadable, soft cheese produced using milk and cream. It is not aged, hence a fresh flavor and a silky texture. It's tangy, it's slightly sweet, and very creamy. That's why it's so ideal for sweet and savory dishes.

Cream cheese was first made in the U.S. in the 1800s and became popular with the Philadelphia brand, which remains today. Since then, it's been a favorite dish to cook in many countries, including Canada.

Why is cream cheese so well-liked?

Cream cheese is a chef's best friend for some fairly basic reasons:

• It's versatile: You can use it in sweet and savory dishes.

• It's great:  That rich, mildly sour taste adds flavour to nearly everything.

• It's simple to use: No need for preparation—just open the pack and use it!

Health Benefits of Cream Cheese

Although cream cheese is dense in calories and rich, it is not completely devoid of nutrients when consumed in moderation.

1. Chock Full of Vitamin A

Cream cheese is a good source of Vitamin A, which contributes to vision, skin, and immune function.

2. Low in Carbs

For those who are on keto or low-carb diets, cream cheese is an ideal choice. It is high in fat and low in carbs, so it is very filling and satisfying.

3. Has Healthy Fats

The fat in cream cheese makes you feel full for a longer period. These fats also aid in brain function and provide energy.

4. Easy on the Tummy

Cream cheese has less lactose than the majority of other dairy products, so it's less hard for most people to digest—including those with mild lactose intolerance.

5. Potential Probiotics

Certain cream cheese brands have live cultures that are healthy for your digestive system. Check the label at all times!

How to Use Cream Cheese on Daily Preparations

Now, onto the good stuff and how to utilize cream cheese in your home kitchen! These are some tasty and easy methods.

1. Apply it to bagels or bread

This is the most popular application. Cream cheese spread on toasted bread or bagel slices is a snack or breakfast food. You may have fruit, honey, jam, or even smoked salmon.

2. Prepare a Creamy Pasta Sauce

Want to cream pasta without heavy cream? Add a spoonful of cream cheese to your hot pasta. It melts instantly and results in a silky, creamy sauce.

Practice it with:

• Mac and cheese

• Tomato pasta sauce

• Alfredo sauce

3. Bake a Cheesecake

Cream cheese is the key ingredient of cheesecake. It provides the dessert with its smooth, creamy texture and ideal tangy flavor. You may also use it for no-bake cheesecake recipes to have a quick and convenient dessert.

4. Apply It to Frostings and Icings

Cream cheese frosting is a winner! It is not too sweet and goes well with:

• Carrot cake

• Red velvet cake

• Banana bread

• Cupcakes

5. Prepare Dips and Spreads

House party or just a snack? Cream cheese is an awesome starting point for dips. Mix herbs, spice, or salsa to make for:

• Garlic and herb dip

• Buffalo chicken dip

• Spinach and artichoke dip

6. Stuffed Chicken or Veggies

You can blend cream cheese with spices and fill mushrooms, bell peppers, or chicken breasts with them. It does not dry up the food but gives it ample flavor.

7. Pair It with Eggs

Need scrambled eggs with cream or a ridiculously puffy omelet? Simply add a little cream cheese when you're cooking your eggs. It melts and tastes great.

Cream Cheese in Desserts

If you have a sweet tooth, cream cheese is shortly going to become your best friend.

1. No-Bake Cheesecake Cups

Crumb cookies at the bottom, blend cream cheese and sugar and vanilla, and spoon into cups. Top with fruit. Voila!

2. Cream Cheese Brownies

Swirl cream cheese into brownie batter prior to baking for a marbled look and a richer flavor.

3. Fruit Dip

Combine cream cheese with a little honey or sugar and serve with sliced fresh fruit. It's a party favorite or even for school lunchboxes.

Enjoyable Flavours and Variations

Did you know that cream cheese is also available in various flavors? In Canadian grocery stores, you can get:

• Herb & garlic

• Chive

• Strawberry

• Smoked salmon

• Jalapeno

These are wonderful to place on sandwiches, wraps, or simply spread on crackers.

Simple Recipes Using Cream Cheese

Following are some quick and simple ideas that you can implement today:

Creamy Veggie Wrap

• Whole wheat tortilla

• Cream cheese

• Sliced bell peppers, cucumber, carrots

• A dash of pepper and salt

Top with cream cheese on the wrap, veggies, roll up, and enjoy!

Cream Cheese Pancakes

• 2 eggs

• 2 oz cream cheese

• Dash of cinnamon

• Mix and fry like pancakes.

Perfect for a speedy, low-carb breakfast!

Tips for Buying and Storing Cream Cheese

Always look for the expiration date. Freshly made cream cheese is best. Store it in the refrigerator after opening and consume it within 10 days. You can also freeze it but it may become different in texture, preferably in a cooked dish after freezing.

Canadian Delight: Cream Cheese in Poutine?

Although it's not conventional, there are a couple of Canadian foodies who are putting cream cheese in poutine to create a creamier, richer alternative. If you're an experimenter in the kitchen, you have to try it!

Why You Need Cream Cheese in Your Life

No matter whether you're preparing an elegant dessert, a quick meal, or a weekend breakfast, cream cheese is always a good option. It's decadent, and it's flavorful, and it's suitable for all types of recipes. And it's also readily available in Canadian supermarkets and won't cost an arm and a leg. So the next time you're shopping, pick up a container of cream cheese and begin experimenting in your kitchen.

You'll be amazed at all of the tasty things you can make with just this one ingredient by itself!