Cream Cheese — Nutrients, Health Benefits, and Shopping Tips
Written by Listonic Team
Last update on September 5, 2024
Cream cheese nutrients
Nutrition facts
Amount per 100 g
Calories
🔥 342 kcal
| Nutrients per: 100 g | Value | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Carbs | 4 g | 1.45% |
| Fiber | 0 g | - |
| Sugars | 3 g | 6% |
| Glycemic Index | 30 | - |
| Protein | 6 g | 12% |
| Sodium | 321 mg | 13.96% |
| Total Fat | 34 | 43.59% |
*The % of Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
30
🟢 Low Glycemic Index
4 g
⬇️ Low Carb Content
Cream cheese facts & tips
Health benefits
- Rich in healthy fats, which provide energy and support cell function.
- High in protein, supporting muscle growth, repair, and overall body function.
- Contains essential vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin A and calcium, which support overall health and well-being.
- Enhances flavor and texture in a variety of dishes and baked goods, making them more enjoyable and palatable.
Health risks
- High fat content particularly in full-fat cream cheese, which can raise cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease when consumed frequently.
- High calorie content which can contribute to weight gain if consumed frequently or in large portions, particularly as a spread or ingredient in high-calorie dishes.
- High sodium content in some commercial cream cheese products, which can contribute to hypertension and increased cardiovascular risks.
- Potential for lactose intolerance symptoms such as bloating, gas, or diarrhea in individuals sensitive to dairy products.
- Potential for contamination with harmful bacteria if cream cheese is not properly stored or handled, leading to potential foodborne illness.
How to choose cream cheese
Cream cheese should be smooth and spreadable without any lumps or separation. The package should be sealed properly to maintain its freshness and texture.
Avoid cream cheese that appears yellowed or has liquid pooling in the package. Packages that are bloated or have tears should also be avoided, as the cheese may be contaminated or spoiled.
How to store cream cheese
Cream cheese should be stored in the refrigerator, preferably in its original packaging or an airtight container. Refrigeration keeps it fresh and flavorful for up to two weeks.
Air exposure can cause cream cheese to dry out and spoil. Avoid using dirty utensils to scoop it out, as this can introduce bacteria. Always reseal the packaging tightly to maintain quality.
✅ Extra Tip
How long does it last?
Cream cheese can last for 1-2 weeks in the refrigerator once opened. Unopened, it can last for 1-2 months. For longer storage, cream cheese can be frozen for up to 2 months, but its texture may change upon thawing. Proper storage helps maintain its smooth texture and taste.
What to do with leftovers?
Leftover cream cheese can be used in a variety of sweet and savory dishes. Spread it on bagels, toast, or crackers for a quick breakfast or snack, or mix it into frosting or dips for added creaminess. Cream cheese is also great when used as a filling for stuffed vegetables, pastries, or pasta dishes.
Use cream cheese in a cheesecake by mixing it with sugar, eggs, and vanilla, then baking until set. If you have a lot of cream cheese, consider making a batch of cream cheese dip by blending it with herbs, garlic, and lemon, perfect for serving with vegetables or chips. Cream cheese can also be added to a cream sauce for pasta or chicken, or used as a filling for cream cheese stuffed French toast. For a quick snack, enjoy cream cheese with fresh fruit, honey, or a sprinkle of cinnamon, or mix it into a bowl of yogurt with granola and fresh berries.
👨⚕️️ Medical disclaimer
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Listonic Team
Fact-checked
Our editorial team checked this article to make sure it was accurate at the time of publishing it.
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