cream cheese substitute
in bread.

Cream Cheese makes bread softer and richer. A good swap should match the fat content and body so bread stays rich.

top substitutes

01

Cheese Spread

10.0best for bread
1 cup : 1 cup

Processed and smooth; similar spreadability, less tangy and more uniform texture

02

Neufchatel

10.0best for bread
1 cup : 1 cup

Lower-fat cream cheese; tastes nearly identical, slightly softer texture in baking

03

Whipped Butter

10.0best for bread
1 tbsp : 1 tbsp

Softer and lighter; fine for spreading on bagels, too airy for baking or frosting

show 16 more substitutes
04

Mascarpone

9.0
1 cup : 1 cup

Richer Italian cream cheese, closest match

05

Heavy Cream

8.0
1 cup : 1/2 cup

Use half cup thinned with milk; rich in sauces

06

Whipped Cream

7.5
1 cup : 3/4 cup

Whip with milk to lighten; tangy flavor

07

Cottage

7.5
1 cup : 1 cup

Blend cottage cheese smooth; lighter and grainier, add cream for richer result

08

Goat Cheese

7.0
1 cup : 1 cup

Tangy and spreadable, works in dips

09

Feta

6.7
1 cup : 1 cup

Smoother, richer; works in spreads and pastries

10

Brie

6.7
1 cup : 1 cup

Similar creaminess, firmer texture

11

Camembert

6.7
1 cup : 1 cup

Bloomy rind cheese; softer and milder than cream cheese, remove rind before spreading

12

Goat

6.7
1 cup : 1 cup

Tangy goat cheese; softer and more pungent, works in spreads and savory pastries

13

Shortening

6.7
1 cup : 1 cup

Cold shortening cut into flour; makes flaky pastry but adds no flavor, use with salt

14

Plain Yogurt

6.0
1 cup : 1 cup

Thinner and tangier; strain through cheesecloth overnight for cream cheese-like thickness

15

Greek Yogurt

6.0
1 cup : 1 cup

Soften first; thicker, works in dips and baking

16

Avocado

6.0
1 cup : 1/2 cup

Blend ripe avocado smooth; adds creaminess and fat to dips and spreads, slight green color

17

Mayonnaise

6.0
1 cup : 1 cup

Creamy and tangy; mayo adds richness to dips and spreads but lacks cream cheese's density

18

Hummus

4.0
1 cup : 1 cup

Savory spread swap for bagels and wraps

19

Peanut Butter

4.0
1 tbsp : 1 tbsp

Thick and rich spread; very different flavor, works on toast but not in cheesecake

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