Substitute for Cream Cheese

Rich, tangy, dense spreadable cheese. Staple for frostings and cheesecake.

• Dairy
• 4 options

1. 1

   Mascarpone1:1

   Best

   Less tangy, creamier, slightly sweeter. Best 1:1 swap for texture.

   frostings, cheesecakes, tiramisu
2. 2

   Ricotta, pureed smooth1:1 (drain first)

   Lighter, less rich; whip in food processor for smoothness.

   fillings, savory spreads
3. 3

   Cottage cheese, blended smooth1:1 (drain first)

   Higher protein, looser body; blend until creamy.

   dips, high-protein baking
4. 4

   Neufchatel1:1

   1/3-less-fat cream cheese; nearly identical.

   frostings, spreads, baking

Recipes that use cream cheese

Ham & Cheese Hand Pies

14 min 375°F 310 cal

Air Fryer Grilled Cheese

8 min 375°F 380 cal

Ham and Cheese Wraps

8 min 375°F 300 cal

Other dairy swaps

Milk (whole)Heavy CreamButtermilkSour CreamYogurt (plain)Greek YogurtButterHalf & HalfSweetened Condensed MilkEvaporated MilkMascarponeRicotta

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