Name: Delicious Strawberry Cream Cheese Spread
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 lb fresh strawberries, washed and hulled; 1 tbsp granulated sugar; 2 blocks (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened

If you’re in search of a delightful and tantalizing spread that will elevate your breakfast and snack game, look no further than this homemade Strawberry Cream Cheese! Made with only three simple ingredients, this recipe is a breeze to whip up and is perfect for topping your favorite bagels, slathering on toast, or even dipping fresh fruit into. The delightful blend of sweet strawberries and creamy cheese creates a rich yet light spread that tastes reminiscent of a luscious strawberry cheesecake, making it an absolute favorite among both adults and kids alike.

Whether you’re hosting a brunch, having friends over, or simply indulging in a well-deserved treat for yourself, this strawberry cream cheese is a winner every time. Plus, with just 40 minutes from start to finish, including a short chilling time, you can prepare this treat quickly and easily. Enjoy it freshly made or prepare it ahead of time for a hassle-free addition to your meals. This recipe not only showcases the natural sweetness of strawberries but also adds a creamy texture that brings all your dishes to life.

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Cream Cheese

This Strawberry Cream Cheese is a wonderfully versatile addition to many meals and snacks. Here are a few compelling reasons to love this easy and delicious recipe:

Simple Ingredients: You only need three ingredients: strawberries, sugar, and cream cheese, making it easy to whip up at a moment’s notice.
Effortless Preparation: The recipe is quick and straightforward, requiring minimal prep time and culinary skills.
Multi-Purpose Use: Spread it on toast or bagels, use it as a dip for fruits, or incorporate it into desserts; the possibilities are endless!
Deliciously Creamy: This spread is creamy and fluffy, providing a taste that mimics sweet strawberry cheesecake.
Customizable: You can easily adjust flavors to your liking by adding extracts or tweaking sweetness.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Preparing your kitchen for this delicious Strawberry Cream Cheese spread is an effortless task. First, ensure you have all your ingredients ready at hand to make the process smoother. Gather the following essential tools and equipment: a mixing bowl, a hand mixer or whisk, a strainer for the strawberries, and a fork or masher.

Start by washing and hulling your strawberries before proceeding with mashing. It’s advisable to have a clean cutting board and knife ready if you need to cut the strawberries for easier mashing. Having a refrigerator available for chilling the mixture is also vital as it enhances the flavors and creaminess of your spread.

Ingredients

1 lb fresh strawberries, washed and hulled
1 tbsp granulated sugar
2 blocks (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries

Begin by placing the hulled strawberries in a strainer over a bowl. Sprinkle the strawberries evenly with granulated sugar and allow them to sit for 15 to 20 minutes. This waiting time helps the strawberries release their juices, creating a natural sweetness that will infuse into the cream cheese.

Step 2: Mash the Strawberries

After allowing the strawberries to sit, transfer them to a bowl where you can use a fork or masher to gently mash them. You don’t want to puree them completely; a few chunky bits add nice texture to the cream cheese, so mash them just a bit to release some of their juices.

Step 3: Whip the Cream Cheese

In a separate mixing bowl, take the softened cream cheese and whip it using a hand mixer until you achieve a smooth, fluffy consistency. This step is crucial for creating a light and airy spread.

Step 4: Combine the Mixtures

Once your cream cheese is whipped, gently fold the mashed strawberries into the bowl with the cream cheese. Be careful not to overmix; you want the two to combine while still maintaining some of that beautiful pink coloration from the strawberries.

Step 5: Chill Before Serving

After combining the strawberry and cream cheese mixtures, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Allow the spread to chill for at least 30 minutes. Chilling not only improves the texture but also melds the flavors together beautifully.

Variations

Protein: Add some chopped nuts for additional crunch and protein boost.
Vegetables: Pair with cucumber slices for a refreshing snack.
Spices: Incorporate a hint of cinnamon for a warm flavor twist.

Cooking Notes

Using fully thawed frozen strawberries works great if fresh ones are unavailable; just make sure to drain any excess water.
For a stronger strawberry flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of strawberry extract to the cream cheese.

Serving Suggestions

Spread on toasted bagels, in place of regular cream cheese for a sweet treat.
Use as a dip for a platter of assorted fresh fruits, making it a perfect addition to any gathering.

Tips

Store leftover strawberry cream cheese in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Try adding 1–2 teaspoons of vanilla extract for a cheesecake-like flavor enhancement.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes (including chilling)

Nutritional Information

Calories: 120 per serving
Protein: 3g per serving
Sodium: 100mg per serving

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries in this recipe?

Yes, fully thawed and drained frozen strawberries can be used if fresh strawberries are not available.

How long can I store the strawberry cream cheese?

It can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, you can substitute the cream cheese with a vegan alternative and ensure the sugar is vegan-certified.

What can I serve with strawberry cream cheese?

It pairs perfectly with bagels, toast, crackers, or can be served as a fruity dip for fresh fruits.

Conclusion

This Strawberry Cream Cheese recipe is not just a simple spread; it’s a versatile delight that complements various snacks and meals! With its ease of preparation and delightful taste, it’s undoubtedly a crowd-pleaser that you can enjoy any time of the day. Whether you opt for it as a breakfast option or as a sweet treat, this simple recipe opens up a world of delicious choices. We invite you to try this recipe, customize it to your liking, and share your experiences in the comments below. Happy cooking!