Cream cheese has a very short shelf life compared to mature cheeses. Depending on how it will be used later, freezing is a good option for preserving excess cream cheese.

Cream cheese will change consistency in the freezer

What do you mean by cream cheese?

Cream cheese isn't just what cream cheese says on the label: in addition to the well-known spread labeled as cream cheese, other processed dairy products also belong to the cream cheese group. In addition to cottage cheese and ricotta, this also includes mascarpone and even quark.
The tips and hints described below apply to all these dairy products from the refrigerated section.

What are the problems with freezing cream cheese?

From a health perspective, there are no concerns about freezing cream cheese. Freezing prevents microbes from multiplying, which is why the product can be enjoyed just as safely as freshly bought cream cheese after it has been frozen and gently thawed.
However, the consistency of the cheese after thawing is problematic: cream cheese has a high water content. When it freezes, the water will separate and the cheese will be crumbly or flaky after thawing. The cream cheese may then no longer be suitable as a spread or for consumption on its own.
However, if the cream cheese is to be processed further, in particular used for cooking, the consistency is usually irrelevant. For processing in the kitchen, previously deep-frozen cream cheese can easily be used.

Freeze, thaw and process cream cheese

Before freezing, you should transfer the cream cheese into a freezer-safe container. Lockable boxes made of plastic or stainless steel are well suited. The cream cheese will keep in the *** freezer for about six months.
You have two options for defrosting:

  • You can defrost the cream cheese slowly and gently in the refrigerator. Due to the continuous cooling, harmful germs cannot multiply on the cream cheese and you can eat it unheated. If the cream cheese is very crumbly after defrosting, you can stir it with a little milk until smooth. If necessary, it is also possible to puree it with a hand blender. Cream cheese thawed in this way is used, for example, in pie fillings or in cream cheese dips.
  • To use the cream cheese in cooked dishes, you can simply add it in frozen form directly to the saucepan or pan. You can refine pasta sauces or stir-fried vegetables with cream cheese, for example.

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