When it comes to healthy eating, many of us think that we have to sacrifice flavor and indulgence in order to make nutritious choices. But what if you could have your cake (or should we say, cream cheese?) and eat it too? Cream cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be used in both sweet and savory dishes, and when paired with healthy ingredients, it can be a game-changer for our diets.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious and healthy cream cheese recipes that are perfect for every meal of the day. From breakfast to dinner and everything in between, these creative and mouth-watering ideas will show you just how easy it is to make healthy eating delicious. So whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a satisfying meal, we’ve got you covered.
Avocado and cream cheese stuffed eggs
Elevate your breakfast game with this creamy and nutritious twist on traditional deviled eggs.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley or chives) for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the eggs in half lengthwise.
2. Scoop out a small amount of egg yolk from each half, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a bowl, mix together the mashed avocado, cream cheese, and lemon juice until smooth.
4. Stuff each egg half with the avocado mixture, mounding it slightly in the center.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Healthy cream cheese and berry parfait
This refreshing dessert is perfect for warm weather, with the tanginess of cream cheese balanced by sweet berries and crunchy granola. It’s an easy and impressive treat that’s sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz reduced-fat cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup mixed berries (such as blueberries, strawberries, raspberries)
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup granola
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together the cream cheese and honey until smooth.
2. Spoon half of the cream cheese mixture into a glass or parfait dish.
3. Top with half of the mixed berries.
4. Repeat layers, ending with the remaining berries on top.
5. Sprinkle Greek yogurt and granola over the berries.
6. Garnish with fresh mint leaves.
Cooking Time: None!
Spinach and cream cheese stuffed chicken breast
Elevate your chicken game with this creamy, flavorful recipe that combines tender chicken breast with a delicious spinach and cream cheese filling. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together spinach, cream cheese, and cheddar cheese.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket. Stuff each breast with the spinach mixture.
4. Season chicken with salt and pepper.
5. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken breasts and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until browned.
6. Transfer skillet to preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Low-carb cream cheese pancakes
Kick-start your day with these scrumptious low-carb pancakes that pack a creamy punch. Made with cream cheese and almond flour, these treats are perfect for those following a ketogenic diet or simply looking to reduce their carb intake.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (60g) almond flour
– 1/4 cup (30g) granulated sweetener (such as Swerve or Erythritol)
– 1/2 cup (115g) cream cheese, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together almond flour, granulated sweetener, and salt.
3. In another bowl, combine cream cheese, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until well combined.
5. Drop 1/4 cupfuls of batter onto the preheated skillet or griddle.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, then flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes per batch (depending on number of pancakes).
Greek yogurt and cream cheese dip with veggies
A refreshing twist on traditional veggie dips, this Greek yogurt and cream cheese recipe is a perfect snack or appetizer for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup shredded carrots
– 1/2 cup sliced red bell peppers
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: additional veggies of your choice (e.g., cucumber, cherry tomatoes)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt and cream cheese. Mix until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the shredded carrots, sliced red bell peppers, and chopped parsley to the bowl. Mix until well combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with additional veggies if desired.
Cooking Time: None (refrigeration time: at least 30 minutes)
Light cream cheese and smoked salmon bagel
Elevate your breakfast or brunch game with this elegant combination of light cream cheese, smoked salmon, and toasted bagel. The subtle tanginess of the cream cheese pairs perfectly with the rich flavor of the smoked salmon.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe bagel
– 2 tablespoons light cream cheese, softened
– 4 slices smoked salmon (about 2 ounces)
– 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
– Fresh dill, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your toaster or toaster oven to toast the bagel.
2. Spread the softened cream cheese evenly onto the toasted bagel.
3. Top with smoked salmon slices, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Add thinly sliced red onion on top of the salmon.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh dill if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes (depending on toaster or oven settings)
Whipped cream cheese with honey and walnuts
Sweet and savory, this whipped cream cheese with honey and walnuts is a delicious spread for crackers, fruit, or even as a dip for vegetables. It’s an easy and impressive appetizer or snack that’s perfect for any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon pure honey
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
2. Add the heavy cream and mix until well combined.
3. Stir in the honey until fully incorporated.
4. Fold in the chopped walnuts.
5. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (prepare and serve immediately)
Notes: You can adjust the amount of honey and walnuts to your liking. This spread is best served at room temperature, but it can be refrigerated for up to 3 days if needed. Enjoy!
Healthy cream cheese and cucumber sandwiches
A refreshing twist on a classic sandwich, these healthy cream cheese and cucumber sandwiches are perfect for a quick lunch or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup reduced-fat cream cheese (Neufchâtel or similar)
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 2 large cucumbers, sliced
– 4 whole wheat bread slices
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the cream cheese, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and salt until smooth.
2. Arrange the cucumber slices on two of the bread slices.
3. Spread a layer of the cream cheese mixture on top of the cucumbers.
4. Top with the remaining bread slices to create sandwiches.
5. Cut in half or into quarters for serving.
Cooking Time: None! Assemble and serve immediately.
Protein-packed cream cheese and banana toast
Start your day off right with this protein-packed twist on classic banana toast. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the creamy richness of cream cheese, all wrapped up in a satisfying breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 1/4 cup reduced-fat cream cheese (softened)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup whole wheat toast
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the cream cheese, honey, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Slice the bananas into thick rounds.
4. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly onto the toast.
5. Top with banana slices.
6. Sprinkle with chopped walnuts, if desired.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Zucchini and cream cheese muffins
These flavorful muffins combine the natural sweetness of zucchini with the tanginess of cream cheese, resulting in a delicious breakfast or snack option. Perfect for using up excess summer zucchini, these muffins are a great way to enjoy the vegetable’s subtle flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup grated zucchini
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine melted butter, egg, zucchini, cream cheese, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; stir until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until tops are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Light cream cheese and herb stuffed mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with these flavorful and easy-to-make stuffed mushrooms, featuring a light cream cheese and herb filling. Perfect for parties or a cozy night in!
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (any variety)
– 8 oz light cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together cream cheese, parsley, garlic, and lemon juice until smooth.
3. Wipe mushroom caps clean with a damp cloth. Fill each cap with about 1 tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture.
4. Place mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Light Cream Cheese and Herb Stuffed Mushrooms!
Healthy cream cheese and carrot cake smoothie
This creamy smoothie combines the classic flavors of carrot cake with a boost of healthy ingredients, making for a deliciously nutritious treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen carrots
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup cream cheese softened
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– Ice cubes (as needed)
– Chopped walnuts or pecans for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add the frozen carrots, Greek yogurt, cream cheese, honey, and vanilla extract to a blender.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Add the unsweetened almond milk and blend until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or consistency as desired.
5. Pour into a glass and garnish with chopped nuts, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! Simply blend and serve.
Vegan cream cheese and almond butter spread
Vegan Cream Cheese and Almond Butter Spread Recipe
A delicious and creamy spread perfect for bagels, crackers, or fruit, this vegan cream cheese and almond butter combination is a game-changer.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup raw cashews
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons almond butter
– 1 tablespoon maple syrup
Instructions:
1. Soak the cashews in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and rinse the cashews, then add them to a blender with lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, and salt. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Transfer the mixture to a bowl and stir in almond butter and maple syrup until well combined.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
5. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None required. Simply blend and refrigerate.
Low-fat cream cheese and tomato bruschetta
Elevate your appetizer game with this low-fat cream cheese and tomato bruschetta recipe. With a tangy twist, this classic combination is sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 8-10 baguette slices
– 1/2 cup reduced-fat cream cheese (softened)
– 1 large tomato, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice baguette into 1/2-inch thick rounds.
3. In a small bowl, mix softened cream cheese with minced garlic until smooth.
4. Arrange bread slices on a baking sheet and toast for 5-7 minutes or until lightly browned.
5. Top toasted bread with a dollop of cream cheese mixture, followed by diced tomato and a drizzle of olive oil.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Healthy cream cheese and pumpkin oatmeal
Start your day with a warm and comforting bowl of pumpkin oatmeal infused with the tanginess of cream cheese. This recipe is perfect for fall mornings when you need a nutritious boost.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup water or milk
– 1/4 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 2 tbsp cream cheese, softened
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: chopped nuts or seeds for topping
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the oats and water/milk to a simmer.
2. Reduce heat to low and cook, stirring occasionally, until the oats have absorbed most of the liquid (about 5 minutes).
3. Stir in the pumpkin puree, cream cheese, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
4. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
5. Serve hot, topped with chopped nuts or seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Chia seed pudding with whipped cream cheese
A healthy and indulgent treat that combines the nutty flavor of chia seeds with the tanginess of whipped cream cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup chia seeds
– 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Rinse the chia seeds and soak them in a bowl of water for at least 30 minutes.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the almond milk, honey or maple syrup, and salt until well combined.
3. Drain the chia seeds and add them to the almond milk mixture. Whisk until smooth.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. To make the whipped cream cheese, beat the softened cream cheese with a mixer or whisk until light and fluffy.
6. Add the softened butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt to the cream cheese mixture. Beat until well combined.
7. Spoon the chia seed pudding into individual serving cups. Top with the whipped cream cheese and serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (or overnight)
Light cream cheese and roasted red pepper dip
This creamy dip combines the richness of light cream cheese with the sweet, smoky flavor of roasted red peppers. Perfect for snacking or serving at your next gathering!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz light cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup roasted red pepper, pureed (see notes)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: paprika or chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast red peppers according to package instructions or by placing them on a baking sheet, drizzling with olive oil, and roasting for 30-40 minutes, until charred.
3. Allow roasted peppers to cool, then peel off skin and puree in a blender or food processor.
4. In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, pureed red pepper, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
7. Serve chilled or at room temperature. Optional: garnish with paprika or chopped cilantro.
Cooking Time: None (prep time: 15-20 minutes)
Healthy cream cheese and apple cinnamon roll-ups
Transform your breakfast or snack time with these deliciously healthy roll-ups that combine the sweetness of apples, cream cheese, and cinnamon. Perfect for a quick morning pick-me-up or an afternoon treat.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup whole wheat tortilla
– 2 tbsp low-fat cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup diced apple (such as Granny Smith)
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, cinnamon, and vanilla extract until well combined.
2. Place the tortilla on a flat surface and spread one-quarter of the cream cheese mixture evenly across the center of the tortilla.
3. Top with diced apple.
4. Fold the bottom half of the tortilla up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up to form a neat package.
5. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (ready to eat as is!)
Quinoa and cream cheese stuffed bell peppers
Transform bell peppers into a flavorful and nutritious meal by filling them with a creamy quinoa mixture, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon paprika for added smokiness
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers, removing seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a bowl, combine cooked quinoa, cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the quinoa mixture, filling to the top.
5. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
6. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Healthy cream cheese and dark chocolate mousse
Elevate your dessert game with this healthier take on traditional cream cheese mousse, infused with the deep flavors of dark chocolate. This treat is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without compromising on nutritional value.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz reduced-fat cream cheese (Neufchâtel or similar), softened
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream, chilled
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 2 large egg whites
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth.
2. Add unsweetened cocoa powder and whisk until well combined.
3. Fold in heavy cream and dark chocolate chips until fully incorporated.
4. Beat egg whites until stiff peaks form; fold into the mixture.
5. Stir in vanilla extract.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a chilled dessert
Summary
Discover 20 delicious and healthy cream cheese recipes to elevate your meals! From savory dishes like spinach and cream cheese stuffed chicken breast and low-carb cream cheese pancakes, to sweet treats like vegan cream cheese and almond butter spread and chia seed pudding with whipped cream cheese. These creative recipes showcase the versatility of cream cheese in both sweet and savory applications. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast or a satisfying snack, these healthy cream cheese recipes are sure to please!