Description
This homemade Strawberry Cream Cheese spread is a delightful blend of fresh strawberries and smooth cream cheese, sweetened to perfection with powdered sugar and a hint of vanilla. Perfect for spreading on bagels, toast, or as a fruity dip, this recipe is quick to prepare and naturally creamy with a fresh strawberry flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Primary Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup fresh strawberries (or frozen, thawed and drained)
- 2–3 tablespoons powdered sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Optional
- 1–2 tablespoons strawberry jam (for extra sweetness and color)
Instructions
- Prepare the Strawberries: Wash and hull the strawberries, then roughly chop them. If using frozen strawberries, make sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly to prevent excess moisture in the cream cheese spread.
- Blend the Ingredients: In a food processor or mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped strawberries, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Blend or beat with a hand mixer until the mixture is smooth and creamy. For a chunkier texture, pulse lightly or fold in small diced strawberries after blending.
- Adjust Sweetness: Taste the mixture and add more powdered sugar or a spoonful of strawberry jam if you prefer a sweeter and more vibrant spread.
- Chill: Transfer the strawberry cream cheese to a container, cover it, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Serve: Spread the strawberry cream cheese on bagels, toast, English muffins, or waffles. It also makes an excellent fruity dip for fresh fruit or pretzels.
Notes
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor, but frozen strawberries work well if thawed and drained properly.
- Adjust the powdered sugar according to your sweetness preference.
- Adding strawberry jam enhances sweetness and color but is optional.
- Store leftover strawberry cream cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- This spread pairs wonderfully with breakfast favorites and snacks.
