Is Freezing Cream Cheese Possible?

You purchase cream cheese for a recipe, but then change your mind. It sits in the fridge, alongside your forgotten intentions to use it. Like many dairy products, cream cheese often expires before we can enjoy it. However, by freezing it, you can extend its shelf life and make sure it doesn't go to waste.

So, is it okay to freeze cream cheese? And does it freeze well? The answer depends on how you plan to use it. Freezing cream cheese is a great way to save it for later, especially in dishes that require baking. Here's how to freeze and thaw cream cheese properly.

Can You Freeze Cream Cheese?

In short, yes, freezing cream cheese is completely safe. However, keep in mind that its texture will change after freezing, so it might not be ideal for spreading on your morning bagel. But if you're using it in recipes like casseroles or pound cakes, where texture isn't as important, it works just fine.

How to Properly Freeze Cream Cheese

Freezing Cream Cheese That’s Still Unopened

If you find yourself buying cream cheese in bulk, freezing it is a great option. Unopened cream cheese can be placed directly in the freezer in its original packaging. The foil and cardboard box offer plenty of protection from freezer burn. It’s best to keep frozen cream cheese for up to two months.

Freezing Cream Cheese That’s Already Opened

If you've used part of your cream cheese but still want to freeze the rest, transfer it to an airtight container. Make sure to label it with the freezing date and store it in the freezer for up to two months. And of course, ensure the cream cheese is still within its expiration date before freezing.

How to Safely Thaw Frozen Cream Cheese

To thaw frozen cream cheese, place it in the fridge for several hours or overnight. Keep in mind that the texture will change; frozen cream cheese will be noticeably more crumbly and grainy compared to fresh cream cheese. This happens because cream cheese contains a lot of water, which separates from the curds when frozen. Use a whisk or spoon to mix it back together as best as you can.

How to Use Frozen Cream Cheese

Though frozen cream cheese may not work well as a spread due to its altered texture, it’s perfectly fine for use in baked goods. As a rule of thumb: If the texture will be noticeable in the final dish, stick with refrigerated cream cheese. But if the texture won't affect the recipe, feel free to use the frozen version.

While cheesecake is undoubtedly one of the most popular ways to use cream cheese, it might not be the best choice for previously frozen cream cheese due to its grainy texture. However, there are plenty of other dishes where frozen cream cheese works wonderfully, such as cream cheese pound cake, potato casserole, or a baked dip.