To be honest, anything with strawberries and cream cheese is considered to be a victory in general, right? It has the sweet and tangy flavor of fresh strawberries, combined with the smooth richness of cream cheese, and therefore a match made in dessert heaven. Whether you’re spreading it on toast, swirling it into a dessert, or using it as a frosting, strawberry cream cheese is a versatile treat that elevates anything it touches.
This homemade recipe is simple, quick, and ridiculously delicious. In fact, you can make a creamy, fruity spread in about 10 minutes with a few simple ingredients that beat any store-bought version. Let’s get straight to the point!
For a layered dessert treat, don’t miss this delightful Strawberry Crunch Cake Recipe that incorporates similar fruity flavors into a decadent cake.
Why You’ll Love Strawberry Cream Cheese
Strawberry cream cheese is a kind of magic. Not only it tastes incredible, but also makes it super easy and gives you tons of flavor. This is the recipe you need for sweetening and souring that is irresistible whether you are putting it on a bagel, using it for a pastry, or eating it with a spoon (no judgment).
Another reason for loving it? Customizable. Use either fresh or frozen strawberries, adjust the sweetness according to your preference, or even use an additional ingredient, like vanilla extract or a squeeze of lemon juice. Plus, it’s a great way to use up overripe strawberries that might otherwise go to waste.
Ingredients for Homemade strawberry cream cheese
- Cream Cheese: Full-fat cream cheese is best for a rich and creamy texture.
- Strawberries: Fresh or frozen work perfectly, depending on what you have on hand.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar or powdered sugar helps sweeten the mixture.
- Vanilla Extract: Optional, but it adds warmth and enhances the flavor.
- Lemon Juice: A splash brightens the flavors and balances the sweetness.
How to Make Strawberry Cream Cheese
Follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a creamy, fruity spread in no time:
Step 1: Prep the Strawberries
Fresh strawberries should be washed and hulled before being sliced to smaller pieces. For frozen ones, allow thawing for a while before using so that they are much easier to use.
Step 2: Cook the Strawberries (Optional)
If you would like a more intense strawberry flavor, just cook the strawberries down until very thick, almost like jam. Place in a saucepan with 1 tablespoon sugar and cook them over medium until they just break down and thicken. Let cool completely before proceeding.
Step 3: Blend Everything Together
In a food processor or blender, blend the cream cheese, strawberries, sugar, and vanilla extract together. Puree until it is smooth and creamy. If the strawberries were cooked, they can be added into the cream cheese mixture and blended until completely incorporated.
Step 4: Adjust the Sweetness
Savor the flavor of your strawberry cream cheese, and if you require it sweeter, keep on whipping in sugar until it meets your desires. If the mixture is thicker than you’d like, stir in some milk or cream until it reaches the consistency you want.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
Transfer the strawberry cream cheese to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together. Serve chilled, and enjoy!
For a perfect crust to pair with this cream cheese as a pie filling, check out this tried-and-true Crisco Pie Crust Recipe for a buttery, flaky base.
How to Use Strawberry Cream Cheese
- As a Spread: Slather it on toast, bagels, or croissants for a quick breakfast or snack.
- In Desserts: Use it as a filling for cupcakes, crepes, or sandwich cookies.
- As a Frosting: Spread it over cakes, cupcakes, or brownies for a fruity twist.
- In Cheesecake: Swirl it into cheesecake batter for a stunning visual and flavor boost.
- With Pancakes or Waffles: Dollop it on top and drizzle with syrup for a decadent breakfast.
Tips for the Best Strawberry Cream Cheese
- Use Fresh Ingredients: The fresher the strawberries, the better the flavor. If using frozen, make sure they’re good quality and thawed properly.
- Don’t Overblend: Overblending can make the mixture too thin. Blend just until smooth and creamy.
- Cook the Strawberries: Cooking intensifies the strawberry flavor and helps prevent the cream cheese from becoming watery.
- Chill Before Serving: Allow the cream cheese to chill for at least 30 minutes for the best texture and flavor.
- Store Properly: Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
If you’re a fan of fruity flavors and creamy textures, this recipe pairs wonderfully with a decadent dessert like this Pecan Cream Pie for an indulgent treat.
Nutrition Information
Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (2 tablespoons):
- Calories: 100
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Protein: 2g
- Sugar: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
Why Make It at Home?
Of course, you can buy strawberry cream cheese from stores, but making it at home has its own advantages-promising sweetness control, no artificial flavors, and tailoring it to your tastes. More than that, fresher, tastier, and generally more affordable than those stocked on supermarket shelves.
Key Takeaways
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Rich and Creamy Texture | Full-fat cream cheese and fresh strawberries create a luscious spread. |
| Quick and Easy | Ready in under 10 minutes with minimal effort. |
| Customizable Flavor | Adjust the sweetness, add vanilla, or experiment with other fruits like raspberries. |
| Versatile Uses | Perfect for bagels, desserts, frostings, or even savory dishes with a fruity twist. |
| Homemade Freshness | Skip the artificial flavors and enjoy a fresher, tastier version. |
Conclusion
Strawberry cream cheese is among the very few simple pleasures that elevate an otherwise everyday dish into an occasion. Whether you spread it onto a warm bagel, swirl it into a cheesecake, or serve it with fresh fruits, this creamy, fruity delight is certain to steal the show.
So get those strawberries and cream cheese and whip up a batch of homemade goodness. It’s quick, easy, and way better than the ones sold in stores. After you try it, there will be no going back! 🍓💕
FAQs
Does strawberry cream cheese still exist?
Strawberry cream cheese is still very much available and in demand! Lots of brands such as Philadelphia come out with strawberry cream cheese for supermarkets. It’s usually paired with bagels, desserts, and recipes, therefore making it a necessity in kitchens. However, if you would like it fresher and tailor-made, it is super easy to make it at home with just a few ingredients.
Does Philadelphia make strawberry cream cheese?
Yes, Philadelphia makes strawberry cream cheese, and it’s one of their most popular flavored options. Known for its smooth and creamy texture, the strawberry flavor adds a fruity twist to their classic recipe. It’s perfect for spreading on bagels or using in recipes that call for a sweet and tangy cream cheese.
Does strawberry cream cheese taste good?
For sure! Strawberry cream cheese is indeed tangy, sweet, and flavored with cream. This is the perfect combination of creamy, rich cream cheese and fruity strawberries. So good! Such a multi-purpose spread: just use it in sweet desserts and savory dishes alike. For those who like creamy and fruity delights, this spread is going to be a winner for you.
Why is there a cream cheese shortage?
Cream cheese shortages have been mostly related to disruptions in the supply chain, a surge in baking activity during the pandemic, and even labor shortages in the dairy production. Popular brands like Philadelphia have been unable to meet the increasing demand, especially in peak seasons like the holidays with baking activities.
How long does strawberry cream cheese last in the fridge?
Homemade strawberry cream cheese typically lasts 4-5 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Store-bought versions may last longer, depending on the expiration date, but always check for signs of spoilage like an off smell or changes in texture.