Whipped cream cheese is an enjoyable treat, perfect for spreading on bagels or using in a delectable dessert. Once opened, however, it only lasts 7-10 days in the fridge! To prevent it from going bad, one might wish to pop it into the freezer and save it for another day- but can you freeze whipped cream cheese?
You can freeze whipped cream cheese and store it in the freezer for up to two months. It will retain its creamy consistency and, once thawed, will be ready to enjoy!
The rest of this article will explain two methods for freezing whipped cream cheese, the difference between whipped and regular cream cheese, as well as some fun recipes to try!
Should You Freeze Cream Cheese?
Anytime food is frozen, the process changes the texture and flavor of the food. The change in texture and flavor happens because water expands when it’s frozen. The expanding water causes cells to rupture, resulting in the loss of flavor.
You should freeze cream cheese because, unlike many other foods, cream cheese will not lose its delicious flavor when frozen.It also will not lose its texture when thawed.
How To Freeze Whipped Cream Cheese
There are two ways to freeze whipped cream cheese. Both methods are relatively easy and quick. You only need something to wrap the cream cheese inside and a freezer to freeze it.
Use a Plastic Container or Plastic Wrap to Freeze Whipped Cream Cheese
You can freeze whipped cream cheese in a covered plastic container or plastic wrap. Either way, the container you choose needs to be air-tight.
To freeze the whipped cream cheese, you will need to:
Place the cream cheese in a plastic container. If you’re using plastic wrap, wrap the cream cheese in the plastic wrap, then seal it in a freezer bag.
Place the sealed whipped cream cheese into the freezer.
Store for up to two months.
I recommend using these Tupperware Smidgets (available on Amazon.com). These condiment containers by Tupperware are perfect for freezing single servings of cream cheese. Tupperware is a trusted brand that makes high-quality products.
Use a Baking Sheet to Freeze Whipped Cream Cheese
The baking sheet method takes a little more time but provides you with single portion sizes for easier use. To freeze whipped cream cheese using a baking sheet, you will need to:
Separate single portion sizes of whipped cream cheese.
Drop the portions on a baking sheet.
Place the baking sheet in the freezer.
Once frozen, peel the frozen whipped cream cheese off the baking sheet.
Place the frozen portions in a freezer bag and store them for up to two months.
For this method, I recommend using Ziploc Gallon Food Storage Freezer Bags from Amazon.com. These bags seal air-tight and are very durable. They also help protect from freezer burn, keeping your cream cheese tasty and fresh!
Whipped Cream Cheese vs. Regular Cream Cheese: Which One Freezes Better?
Whipped cream cheese freezes better than regular cream cheese. Whipped cream cheese contains more air bubbles, unflavored gelatin, and milk or cream thinning. As a result, it’s less likely to form large ice crystals when frozen, has better texture, and has a more spreadable consistency when thawed.
Here’s a rundown of how the mentioned factors help whipped cream cheese to freeze better than regular cream cheese:
The air bubbles in whipped cream cheese act as insulators. They prevent the formation of large ice crystals by trapping pockets of air and moisture. This results in a cream cheese that is less likely to be crumbly and dry when thawed.
The gelatin helps stabilize the fat globules in the cream cheese, preventing them from coalescing and forming large ice crystals. This results in a smoother texture when the whipped cream cheese is thawed.
Milk or cream thinning the whipped cream cheese helps prevent the formation of large ice crystals. This is because the water in the milk or cream prevents the fat globules from coalescing. When thawed, the whipped cream cheese will hold its desirable texture.
So, if you’re looking for a cream cheese that will freeze well and still taste great when thawed, go for the whipped variety. Your taste buds will thank you!
How To Thaw Whipped Cream Cheese
Now that you know why whipped cream cheese freezes better than regular cream cheese, let’s talk about how to thaw it. After all, even the best freezer-friendly foods can be ruined if they’re not thawed properly.
Here are four easy steps to follow when thawing your frozen whipped cream cheese:
Remove the frozen whipped cream cheese from the freezer. This is best done a day or two before you plan to use it, as it takes several hours for the cream cheese to thaw completely.
Place the frozen cream in the refrigerator for 24-48 hours. This will allow the cream cheese to thaw slowly and evenly, preserving the integrity of its texture.
Once the cream cheese has thawed, place it in a bowl and whisk until smooth. If the cream cheese is still too thick, you can add a little milk or cream to thin it out.
Note: If you’re in a hurry, you can place the container of cream cheese in a bowl of cool water. Be sure to change the water every 30 minutes to prevent the cream cheese from getting too warm. Once the cream cheese has thawed, follow step three above.
Here’s a video that may come in handy if you need tips for softening cream cheese quickly:
You can refreeze whipped cream cheese, but it must have been thawed in the refrigerator and it will not be as fluffy as when it was first whipped. Additionally, it will lose its quality and will not taste as good.
If you want to refreeze your whipped cream cheese, make sure to do so within 2 hours. Otherwise, it will not be safe to eat anymore.
According to the US Department of Agriculture, most foods can be refrozen as long as they’ve been thawed in the refrigerator and have not been sitting out at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
When To Use Whipped Instead of Regular Cream Cheese
While regular cream cheese can be used as a substitute for whipped cream cheese in some recipes, it will not give you the same results. Whipped cream cheese is lighter and fluffier, so it’s better for spreading on bread or adding to dishes where you want a softer texture.
Some instances where you would want to use whipped cream cheese instead of regular cream cheese are:
When making a dip: Whipped cream cheese will make a lighter, fluffier dip- perfect for chips or pretzels.
In frosting: Using whipped cream cheese will give frosting a light and airy texture.
As a spread: Whipped cream cheese is perfect for spreading on bagels or toast. It’s also delicious in between layers of a cake or on cupcakes.
If you’re looking for a creamier texture, regular cream cheese is the way to go. It’s also a good choice for baking recipes since it won’t deflate like whipped cream cheese can.
Fun Whipped Cream Cheese Recipes
Now that you know all about freezing whipped cream cheese, it’s time to put your thawed cream cheese to good use! After all, this delicious spread is not just for bagels and toast. It makes a great dip, frosting, and even cake filling.
Here are some fun recipes that will showcase the versatility of whipped cream cheese.
Ants on a Log Recipe
Traditionally, Ants on a Log is a recipe consisting of celery (the “log”) covered in peanut butter and sprinkled with little raisins (the “ants”). However, in this recipe, we will be replacing the peanut butter with cream cheese and adding a savory seafood twist!
This fun recipe only takes a minute to make. You will need:
Celery stalks
½ cup (68 g) finely chopped smoked salmon
Whipped cream cheese
1 tablespoon (3 g) chopped red onion
1 tablespoon (7.5 g) capers
1 tablespoon (0.6 g) chopped dill
To prepare this dish, do the following:
Stir the whipped cream cheese, red onions, dill, and smoked salmon in a bowl.
Spread the mixture on your celery sticks.
Enjoy!
Whipped Cream Cheese Brownies Recipe
Whipped cream cheese brownies make for a wonderful treat at celebrations and parties. Top them with Ganache frosting and they are unforgettable!
To make these delectable brownies, you will need:
Unsalted butter
Vanilla
Salt
All-purpose flour
Heavy whipping cream
Whipped cream cheese
Eggs
Granulated sugar and unsweetened cocoa powder
To make whipped cream cheese brownies, do the following:
Melt butter and chocolate together in a saucepan with a tablespoon of water.
Mix in the sugar and whipped cream cheese.
Add the vanilla and eggs.
Mix until smooth and pour into a baking pan.
Bake for 40 to 50 minutes.
While the brownies are still hot, pour your ganache over them.
Let them cool. At this point, you can chill them in the refrigerator.
Cut into squares and serve!
Whipped Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
This recipe combines sweetened whipped cream and cream cheese for a delicious frosting. It’s also very uncomplicated to make and will serve as a wonderful topping for your cupcakes!
To make whipped cream cheese frosting, you will need the following:
Heavy whipping cream
Brick cream cheese
Vanilla
Powdered sugar
Salt
Note: You will also need a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment.
There are two methods to make whipped cream cheese frosting. The first way is called the One Bowl Method:
Place your brick of cream cheese in the stand mixer.
Beat the cream cheese for 15 seconds.
Add the powdered sugar.
Add the salt and vanilla.
Mix until combined and smooth.
Switch from the paddle to the whisk attachment.
Whip the frosting on medium speed.
Add the heavy cream.
Stop when the mixture is thick and consistent.
The other method is called the Two Bowl Method and is done with the following steps:
In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese brick with an electric hand mixer for 15 seconds.
Add the powdered sugar.
Add the salt and vanilla.
Beat the mixture until combined and creamy. (Note: avoid beating for too long!)
Using the whisk attachment, whip the heavy cream.
Add your whipped cream mixture to the cream cheese mixture.
Use the electric hand mixer again to beat the mixture until smooth.
Tips for Whipped Cream Frosting
Use the frosting immediately after you’ve made it.
Always use cold cream cheese and cold heavy cream.
Always store leftover frosting in the refrigerator.
You can use gel food coloring on your frosting for festive occasions!
Store the leftover frosting in an airtight container. For added freshness, use a zip-loc bag as well.
Can You Freeze Whipped Cream Cheese Frosting?
You can freeze whipped cream cheese frost because of its relatively high-fat content. Simply store it in an airtight bowl or ziplock freezer bag with the air squeezed out. Frozen whipped cream cheese frosting will last for approximately 3 months in the freezer.
Can You Freeze Whipped Cream Cheese – Conclusion
In conclusion, it’s perfectly safe to freeze whipped cream cheese. If you seal it properly and label your freezer bag, you’ll have delicious, fresh cream cheese ready to go for up to two months!
