If you have ever made a cheesecake only to realize your cream cheese is as hard as a rock, do not worry – there are several ways you can learn how to soften cream cheese quickly. Whether you choose the microwave method or prefer to let it come to room temperature, we’ve got you covered with different ways to soften cream cheese for your wonderful cheesecake creations and beyond.
Prepare delicious waffles or chocolate chaffles, make fat bombs or spread them onto freshly baked bagels. Whatever you choose, cream cheese needs to be part of it.
Cream cheese is versatile in many recipes, from savory dips to sweet desserts. Softening cream cheese is a simple task that can save you time and hassle in the kitchen. You need an effective, quick way of softening it without ruining the consistency, like when you need to soften hard brown sugar for a recipe.
Methods to Soften Cream Cheese Quickly
When it comes to whipping up a delicious cheesecake or creamy frosting, having properly softened cream cheese is essential. In this guide, I will explore various methods and the best ways to soften cream cheese, ensuring your culinary creations turn out smooth, velvety, and irresistible. All of those methods can also be used to soften butter.
Leave Cream Cheese Sit at Room Temperature Method
One of the easiest ways to soften cream cheese is to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This method works best when the cream cheese is already in a soft package rather than a block. Take the cream cheese out of the refrigerator and let it soften on the counter until it reaches room temperature. It’s important not to leave it too long, as cream cheese can spoil if not refrigerated.
This is an excellent method for making cheesecakes; you can leave the cream cheese out when preparing, and then it will be softened when you make your pecan pie cheesecake.
Softening Cream Cheese in the Microwave Method
Another quick way to soften cream cheese is to use a microwave. First, unwrap the cream cheese from its packaging and place it in a microwave-safe bowl. Then microwave on high for 15 seconds. Check and stir it to ensure that it is evenly softened. Repeat the process in 10-second intervals until it’s soft enough to use. Be careful not to overheat; it can become too runny and difficult to use.
‘My favorite way to soften cream cheese is to add hot water to a glass covering an entire block of cheese. The water heats the glass in a minute or two, then I dump it and dry it thoroughly. I put unwrapped cream cheese on a small plate standing upright so the glass fits over it, then put the glass over it upside down. In five to ten minutes, the cream cheese softens perfectly without melting as it tends to if you try to do it in the microwave.”
— Michelle Price, Honest and Truly
Double Boiler Method
The double boiler method is gentler to soften cream cheese, as it doesn’t use direct heat. First, bring a pan of water to a simmer. Then, place the cream cheese in a heatproof bowl and set it on top of the pot. The steam from the simmering water will gently warm it, making the cheese soft and easy to use. Stir occasionally until it reaches the desired consistency; this is an excellent method for making Reese’s peanut butter pie.
‘If you are using a sealed block of cream cheese, like one in foil, I like to place the whole wrapped block in a bowl of warm water and allow it to sit for about 15 minutes. You can flip the block in the water every few minutes to ensure it softens evenly.’
— Gen La Rocca, Two Cloves Kitchen
Soften Cream Cheese in Warm Water Bath Method
You need to follow a simple process to soften cold cream cheese cube using the warm water bath method. First, take the cheese from the wrapper and place it in a bowl of warm water. Make sure the water is not too hot, just comfortably warm. Let the cream cheese sit in the water bath for about 15 minutes, and during this time, you can flip the block in the water every few minutes to ensure it softens evenly. This gentle method helps the cream cheese become nice and soft without melting it like a microwave might. It’s a handy way to prepare your cream cheese for making delicious dishes like creamy cheesecakes or fluffy frosting.
Ingredients needed:
- Block of cream cheese
- Water
*Exact measurements are listed in the recipe card below.
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS TO LEARN HOW TO SOFTEN CREAM CHEESE
First Step: Choose your method
Choose your preferred method. You can use the room temperature method, microwave method, double boiler method, or warm water bath method, depending on your time and equipment availability.
Second Step: Room Temperature Method
Take the cream cheese out of the refrigerator and remove it from its packaging. Place it on the countertop and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Ensure it doesn’t stay out too long to avoid spoilage.
Third Step: Microwave Method
Place the unwrapped cream cheese in a microwave-safe bowl if you’re using the microwave. Microwave it on high for 15 seconds, then check and stir it. Repeat in 10-second intervals until it reaches your desired softness, being cautious not to overheat.
Fourth Step: Double Boiler Method
Bring a pan of water to a simmer for the double boiler method. Put the cream cheese in a heatproof bowl and set it on the simmering pot. Stir occasionally until it reaches the desired consistency.
Fifth Step: Warm Water Bath Method
Place the whole block of wrapped cream cheese in a bowl of warm water in this method. Let it sit for about 15 minutes, flipping the block in the water every few minutes to ensure even softening.
TIPS AND TRICKS:
- Different types of cream cheese have different consistencies; whipped cream cheese is softer than regular cream cheese.
- Start with cream cheese at room temperature (around 70°F) for easier softening.
- Store cream cheese in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources, to maintain its texture.
What To Use Softened Cream Cheese For?
You can use cream cheese for many yummy things when it is softened. You can make a creamy cheesecake or fluffy cream cheese frosting for cakes and cookies. It’s great for spreading on bagels or making tasty dips with herbs and spices. You can also fill pastries with it or add it to sauces for pasta and soups. Cream cheese can even go in savory dishes like stuffed chicken or muffins.
Factors Affecting Softness
In simpler terms, let us talk about what makes things soft or not so soft. Several factors can affect how soft something feels or how easily it can be squeezed or squished.
- Type of Cream Cheese: Different types of cream cheese have different consistencies. For example, whipped cream cheese is softer than regular cream cheese. This is because whipped cream cheese has air whipped into it, which makes it lighter and fluffier. On the other hand, traditional cream cheese is denser and firmer, which can make it more difficult to soften.
- Initial Temperature: The initial temperature of the cream cheese can also affect how soft it is. If it’s too cold, it will be harder to soften. On the other hand, if it’s too warm, it can become too soft and lose shape. It is best to start with cream cheese that is at room temperature, which is around 70°F.
- Humidity Level: The humidity level in the environment can also affect how soft cream cheese is. It can become dry and crumbly in a dry climate, while in a humid environment, it can become too soft and lose shape. It is best to store cream cheese in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
When it comes to softening cream cheese, people tend to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips on how to avoid them and achieve the perfect consistency every time.
- Leaving the Cream Cheese out Too Long: One of the most common mistakes people make when trying to soften cream cheese is leaving it at room temperature for too long. While this may seem like an easy solution, it can cause the cream cheese to become too soft, making it challenging to work with and resulting in a less-than-desirable texture.
- Using the Wrong Tools: Another mistake people often make when softening cream cheese is using the wrong tools. While using a hand mixer or food processor to speed up the process may be tempting, these tools can overwork the cream cheese, resulting in a grainy texture. Instead, using a fork or a rubber spatula to gently mash and mix it until it reaches the desired consistency is best. This will help to avoid overworking the cream cheese and ensure a smooth and creamy texture.
- Adding Liquid Too Soon: Finally, another common mistake people make when softening cream cheese is adding liquid too soon. If you add liquid too soon, you may end up with a runny and thin consistency that is difficult to work with, and you wouldn’t want this if you are using the cheese for dishes like a grape salad. Instead, please wait until the cream cheese is soft and creamy before adding any liquid, and then add it slowly, mixing it in a little at a time until you reach the desired consistency.
Overall, there are a few different methods for softening cream cheese, each with its benefits and drawbacks. The room temperature method is the easiest and most hands-off, but it takes longer. The microwave method is quick but requires careful attention to avoid overheating. The double boiler method is gentle but requires more time and equipment. Choose the way that works best for your needs and preferences.
This article originally appeared on Food Drink Life.
Pin For Later
Need Support or have Questions? Join our Free Facebook Group.
Follow us on Pinterest, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Flipboard, or YouTube.
For weekly New Recipes and a FREE E-Book get into our NEWSLETTER.
Full Recipe With Print Out Option
Thank you for giving us 5 stars
How to Soften Cream Cheese Quickly
If you have ever made a cheesecake only to realize your cream cheese is as hard as a rock, do not worry – there are several ways you can learn how to soften cream cheese quickly. Whether you choose the microwave method or prefer to let it come to room temperature, we’ve got you covered with different ways to soften cream cheese for your wonderful cheesecake creations and beyond.
Ingredients
- 1 Block of Cream Cheese
- Water
Instructions
- Choose your preferred method. You can use the room temperature method, microwave method, double boiler method, or warm water bath method, depending on your time and equipment availability.
- Take the cream cheese out of the refrigerator and remove it from its packaging. Place it on the countertop and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Ensure it doesn’t stay out too long to avoid spoilage.
- Place the unwrapped cream cheese in a microwave-safe bowl if you're using the microwave. Microwave it on high for 15 seconds, then check and stir it. Repeat in 10-second intervals until it reaches your desired softness, being cautious not to overheat.
- Bring a pan of water to a simmer for the double boiler method. Put the cream cheese in a heatproof bowl and set it on the simmering pot. Stir occasionally until it reaches the desired consistency.
- Place the whole block of wrapped cream cheese in a bowl of warm water in this method. Let it sit for about 15 minutes, flipping the block in the water every few minutes to ensure even softening.
Notes
- Different types of cream cheese have different consistencies; whipped cream cheese is softer than regular cream cheese.
- Start with cream cheese at room temperature (around 70°F) for easier softening.
- Store cream cheese in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources, to maintain its texture.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 25Total Fat 3gSaturated Fat 1gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 1gCholesterol 7mgSodium 25mgCarbohydrates 0gFiber 0gSugar 0gProtein 0g
If you are still looking for some Low Carb products, visit our recommended site on Amazon, which we participate in as affiliates. Just click on the image below and all will be revealed.
Keto & Low Carb Kitchen Pantry
Pantry for your Keto and Low Carb kitchen. All of the products and ingredients you should have in your kitchen to be able to bake, cook and discover in our Keto and low Carb Lifestyle.
Keto Desserts E-Book
Living a Keto Lifestyle but still, have a sweet tooth? Explore your next 31 Days with Top Keto & Low Carb Dessert Recipes. Never seen before, all filled with Macros, majority of recipes with only 1g of Total Carbs per Serving, Clear and Easy Step by Step Instructions, Simple Downloads, Minimum Time spent in the Kitchen, and guaranteed Family Favorites.
Keto and Low Carb Flour Substitutes
Keto and Low Carb Flour Substitute in everyday cooking and baking to get the best results possible with our lifestyle. From the most popular Almond & Coconut Flour up to variations of Protein Powders and binding agents such as Psyllium or Xanthan Gum.
Keto-Friendly Sweeteners and Sugar Substitutes
Keto-Friendly Sweeteners are a big part of our Low Carb Lifestyle Kitchen Pantry. It is very important to have some knowledge of and effects of various Keto Sugar Substitutes.
How to Make Easy Low Carb Pasta Alternatives
Are you trying to reduce your carb intake but love pasta? There are many Keto vegetable pasta options with my low carb pasta alternatives that taste great, filling, and easy to make.
Homemade Keto Sweeteners
Make Keto Sweeteners at Home with various Sugar-Free Homemade Syrups and DIY Low Carb Sugar Blends. Build your own Sugar-Free Starbucks Station in your Kitchen with those Natural, Diabetic Friendly, and Gluten-Free Sugar Blends you make yourself and save lots of money.
Homemade Keto Bread Crumbs
Our Homemade Keto Bread Crumbs, made with only 1 Ingredient, will give you a perfectly crispy and crunchy breading for all your low-carb needs. Those Low Carb Breadcrumbs are entirely Gluten-Free, Grain-Free, and Perfect for Diabetics with only 1 carb per portion.
How To Make Sugar Free Caramel Sauce
Learn How To Make Sugar Free Caramel Sauce with 3 Ingredients only, including our own Homemade Sugar-Free Brown Sugar. This Homemade Keto Caramel Syrup is fully Low Carb, Gluten-Free with a Dairy-Free Option, and perfect for Diabetics.
Substitute for Curry Powder Recipe
Make our Substitute for Curry Powder Recipe that gives you a perfectly tailored mix of 12 flavorful fresh spices. Instead of using store bought curry powder, substitute it with your blend for cooking all your delicious Indian meals.
Milk
Are you missing a cold, creamy drink with milk in your daily diet? Or do you have a craving for some deliciously smooth pudding? With a low carb lifestyle, there are several variations you can incorporate into your eating habits
Basic Fathead Dough Recipe
Our Basic Fathead Dough Recipe is Best not only for your Keto Pizza Crust but so many Sweet and Savory Keto Recipes you have been looking for. This Easy Keto Fathead Dough is one and only Low Carb Fat Head Dough you might ever need, made with a choice of Almond Flour or Coconut Flour.
Dehydrated Food Recipes
Discover the art of 20 Dehydrated Food Recipes and unlock a world of versatile foods to dehydrate perfect for backpacking trips and every pantry needs essentials. Learn how to dehydrate food, dehydrate vegetables and fruits, create essential dehydrated foods, store dehydrated food, and even prepare whole meals that can be conveniently stored and rehydrated with boiling water, all using a food dehydrator.
Keto Sugar-Free Simple Syrup Recipe
This Keto Sugar-Free Simple Syrup Recipe with 2 Ingredients only, and has a perfect thick consistency. It is an excellent addition to not only your Keto Drinks, Cocktails, or Smoothies but also Pancakes, Crêpes, Granola, and any Keto Dessert Recipe you are about to make. This fully Low Carb, Gluten-Free, Sugar-Free, and Diabetic Friendly Liquid Sweetener needs to be in your Low Carb Pantry from now on.
How To Make Everything Bagel Seasoning
Learn How To Make Everything Bagel Seasoning done in minutes with only 5 spices as a perfect low sodium replacement for expensive Trader Joe’s Everything Bagel Seasoning. Our Fully Low Carb, Keto, Gluten-Free, Grain-Free, Salt-Free, and Diabetic Friendly Garnish Mix will be your seasoning on almost everything you will prepare.
How To Make Dehydrated Blueberries
Learn How To Make Dehydrated Blueberries using a dehydrator and preserve them to enjoy throughout the year. Explore additional ways of drying blueberries that will keep their nutrients at the most and serve as an excellent keto treat or sweet snack instead of candies.
How To Make Cauliflower Rice in Seconds
Learn How To Make Cauliflower Rice in Seconds for the Best Keto Side Dish Cauliflower Rice Recipes. Complete Guide on Making Low Carb Rice Without using a Food Processor and be ready to Cook Keto Rice daily.
Instant Pot Keto Cold Start Greek Yogurt
Using the cold start method, learn how to create a creamy and delicious Homemade Low Carb Instant Pot Yogurt Recipe. This easy-to-follow recipe will guide you through making Greek yogurt in the Instant Pot using cold milk and offering a hassle-free way to enjoy your favorite homemade yogurt with just a few simple steps.
How To Make Sugar-Free White Chocolate Chips
Learn How To Make extra smooth and melt in your mouth Homemade Sugar-Free White Chocolate Chips with only 3 Ingredients. Our Keto White Chocolate Chips are also Gluten-Free and Low-Carb.
How To Make Onion Powder
Learn How To Make Onion Powder at home using a dehydrator. Homemade onion powder is a great way to preserve onions, which taste better than any grocery store-bought pre-packed tiny jars.
Homemade Enchilada Seasoning Mix
Learn How To Make Easy Homemade Enchilada Seasoning Mix in just a few minutes to flavor your favorite protein, enchilada sauce, dips, and all of your Mexican dishes. Our homemade enchilada seasoning blend is filled with Mexican flavors to replace Mccormick store-bought dry enchilada spice.
Activated Almonds or Soaked Almonds Snack
Learn How To Make Activated Almonds with our recipe to get them more nutritious with extra health benefits. Soak almonds in water to start sprouting, and eat delicious crispy nuts as a health food snack. Dehydrate nuts soaked in water further for longer shelf life.
How To Dehydrate Mushrooms
Learn How To Dehydrate Mushrooms at Home to have them always in your Pantry. Dry Mushrooms using a Dehydrator and make Mushroom Powder afterward.
Almond Flour vs. Coconut Flour
Discover everything you wanted to know about Almond Flour vs. Coconut Flour. Our ultimate guide shows you the difference between coconut flour and almond flour, their nutrition facts, net carbs, how to use and measure them, and keto recipes examples.
How To Make Sugar Free Condensed Milk
Learn How To Make Sugar Free Condensed Milk Recipe that is Rich and Creamy and with only a few Ingredients done in no time. This Homemade Keto Sweetened Condensed Milk is entirely Gluten-Free, Low-Carb, THM Friendly, perfect for Diabetics, and a great addition to all of your Keto Desserts.
Homemade Vanilla Extract Recipe
Make Homemade Vanilla Extract Recipe using Vanilla Beans and Vodka only. Learn How To Make Vanilla Extract as a Best Gift Idea in just a Few Minutes.
Korean Pickled Radish
Enjoy Crunchy Korean Pickled Radish flavored with Beetroot for the best Pickled Appetizer. This Pickled Daikon goes perfectly with Korean Fried Chicken for your Ultimate Dinner Extravaganza.
Sugar Free Strawberry Jam Recipe
Learn How To Make Sugar Free Strawberry Jam Recipe with 2 ingredients only in just a few minutes. This Homemade Strawberry Preserve is Pectin Free, Gluten-Free, Grain-Free, Keto, and perfect for Diabetics.
How To Dehydrate Onions for Food Storage
Learn How To Dehydrate Onions For Food Storage using a Dehydrator. Use Dry Onion in your Cooking or further Mince it into a Delicious Onion Powder for your Seasonings.
How To Make Sausage Seasoning Recipe
Learn How To Make Homemade Sausage Seasoning Recipe with savory spices you already have at home in just a few minutes. Fully Low Carb, Keto, Sugar-Free, Grain-Free, and Diabetic Friendly, this sausage seasoning blend is so versatile you will use it for almost every recipe in your kitchen.
Homemade Mushroom Powder Seasoning
Our Homemade Mushroom Powder Recipe, made out of dehydrated mushrooms, is the best mushroom seasoning blend to flavor your dishes. Learn how to make mushroom powder seasoning used as umami powder in your savory cooking to sprinkle on meats, stews and soups, sauces, and even for our keto snacks.
Pickled Daikon Radish Recipe
Quick and Easy Pickled Daikon Radish Recipe as a delicious accompaniment to many main dishes. Our Pickled Daikon Recipe will show you the quick pickle tips for marinating Korean pickled radish Mu or Japanese and Chinese Daikon.
How To Dehydrate Raspberries
Learn How To Dehydrate Raspberries to preserve them and capture Ripe Raspberry flavor for a very long time. Our Ultimate Guide on How to Dry Raspberries into a perfect Keto Snack that is fully Low Carb, Gluten-Free, and Grain-Free gives you super delicious raspberry chips to snack on.
Explore 23 Best Low Carb Vegetables
Looking for the tastiest vegetables to include in your keto and low-carb diet? Explore 23 Best Low Carb Vegetables with our guide to a healthy, delicious choice. In this article, we will explore a variety of mouthwatering veggies that are not only low in carbs but also incredibly flavorful.
How To Make Strawberry Powder
Learn How To Make Strawberry Powder in the comfort of your home with a few easy steps. Fully Low Carb, Gluten-Free, and perfect for Diabetics, this Fruit Powder will retain all the nutrients and be a great addition to your pantry for your desserts, drinks, or sweet breakfast treat.
How To Make Keto Brown Sugar
Learn How To Make Sugar Free Brown Sugar without Molasses, Homemade, and done in a Few Minutes using only 2 Ingredients. Fully Low Carb, Gluten-Free, excellent for Diabetics. This Substitute for Brown Sugar, which tastes like traditional brown sugar, is the best Keto Brown Sugar you can have in your Pantry.
Genius Kitchen Gadgets for Keto and Low Carb Lifestyle
Ultimate and Practical Keto Kitchen Gadgets Gift Ideas for every budget needed. Pick your favorite time-saving tools for your loved one as a part of organizing a Keto Kitchen or a Low Carb Pantry.
How To Make Dehydrated Strawberries
Learn How To Make Dehydrated Strawberries with a few easy steps to preserve your seasonal produce's freshness, vibrant color, and sweet flavor. Learning how to dehydrate strawberries is the best and easiest way to make a delicious snack that is low carb, gluten-free, and great for people with diabetes.
How to Make Peanut Butter
Is Peanut Butter Low Carb? Is Peanut Butter Keto? With this article, you will explore all of the facts, tips and tricks, recipe suggestions, and everything you need to know about this Gluten-Free, Diabetic-friendly, and of course, Low Carb and Keto wonder. Learn How To Make Peanut Butter with only one ingredient in less than 2 minutes.
Discover 36 Low Carb Fruits
Discover 36 Low Carb Fruits that are a perfect fit to enjoy on a low-carb diet. These nutrient-packed options provide the natural sweetness of fresh fruit without the high sugar content, making some ideal choices to eat on the keto diet while still incorporating a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables into your meals.
Low Carb Chocolates
Chocolates I cannot throw. Avoid them? No way. There is no life without it as some might say. Don’t worry, you definitely do not have to avoid them or get rid of them entirely from your low carb lifestyle.
How to Make Sugar Free Maple Syrup
Learn How to Make Sugar Free Maple Syrup that is Healthy, Homemade, and tastes just like your perfect Classic Pancake Syrup but without carbs or calories. This Gluten-Free, Low Carb, and Diabetic Friendly Keto Syrup is an ideal addition not only to your Breakfast but so many Flavorful Low Carb Dessert Recipes.
How To Make Sugar Free Chocolate Syrup
Learn How To Make Sugar Free Chocolate Syrup done in a few minutes with only 2 ingredients that can be drizzled on almost any of your Keto Treat. Our Dairy-Free, Gluten-Free, Low-Carb, Keto, THM Friendly, and Diabetic Friendly Chocolate Sauce made from a complete scratch can become an addition to your Homemade Starbucks Keto Syrups Collection.
How To Freeze Blueberries
Learn How To Freeze Blueberries to store and enjoy these delicious berries from the freezer year-round. Whether you’re planning to use frozen berries in smoothies, bake them into pies, or make your jam, this step-by-step tutorial recipe for freezing fresh blueberries is a fantastic way to preserve their flavor, save money and reap the benefits of this versatile fruit year long.
Jelly
Pure Gelatin is what I use at most Gelatin is largely composed of the amino acids glycine and proline, which many people don’t consume in adequate amounts as they are found in the bones,
Keto and Low Carb Pantry Decorations
Keto Dessert Decoration is pretty important for the look of the dish especially desserts. When you have kids (but this applies not only by kids) you do realize that most of the time they like what looks good since.
Kitchen Pantry
The kitchen pantry of a low carb lifestyle individual is much more healthier alternative to the pantries used for generations. Once you start a low carb lifestyle, there are few things which needs to be changed.
Keto and Low Carb Syrups
Syrups are perfect to use not only for drinks mixes but also in baking. Some contain stevia and when I add them into the baking it reduces the amount of additional sugar substitutes.
Keto and Low Carb Soft drinks
Keto and Low Carb Soft drinks you can enjoy from time to time. Not the healthiest choice, but when you have kids who goes for Birthday parties, its always good to have some kind
Keto & Low Carb Sweets
Sweets in our house are same like soft drinks, I always buy sugar-free everywhere we travel, but most of them Sophie does not even like, but it helps me when I have a sweet tooth and there is nothing on hand.
Snacks
A snack should not be part of a healthy pantry but if you have kids, it’s always good to have something on hand for a busy day or a trip outdoors.
