12 Irresistible Cream Cheese Desserts You Must Try

Cream cheese is the secret ingredient that adds rich, velvety texture and a slight tang to some of the most indulgent desserts. If you love its creamy goodness, you’re in for a treat! These 12 irresistible cream cheese desserts range from classic favorites like cheesecake to creative twists that will wow your taste buds.

Whether you’re craving a decadent layered cake, smooth and creamy frosting, or a no-bake delight, there’s something on this list for every dessert lover. The best part? Each recipe is easy to follow, ensuring you can whip up bakery-worthy treats right at home.

Get ready to transform your dessert game with these must-try cream cheese recipes—perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to special celebrations!

Classic New York Cheesecake

Classic New York cheesecake is the perfect blend of creamy, rich, and slightly tangy flavors that make it a favorite dessert for many. With a buttery graham cracker crust and a smooth filling made from cream cheese, sugar, and eggs, this cheesecake is a timeless treat that’s surprisingly simple to make.

Dusting off your baking skills will be worth it when you slice into this luscious cake. Whether enjoyed plain or topped with fresh fruit or a drizzle of chocolate, it’s one of the best desserts with cream cheese. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this classic recipe!

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 4 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
2. In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter until fully combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the springform pan to form a crust.
3. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add 1 cup sugar and vanilla, mixing until well combined.
4. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the sour cream and flour until just combined.
5. Pour the filling over the crust in the springform pan. Bake for 60-70 minutes, until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
6. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside for an hour. Then remove from the oven and chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours before serving.
7. Top with your favorite fruit or sauce before serving, if desired.

Red Velvet Cream Cheese Brownies

Red Velvet Cream Cheese Brownies are a delightful twist on the classic brownie, combining the rich, moist texture of red velvet with a luscious cream cheese layer. They’re perfect for special occasions or just a sweet treat at home. The combination of cocoa, buttermilk, and a hint of vanilla creates a delicious flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy topping.

These brownies are surprisingly simple to make and are sure to impress anyone who takes a bite. The cream cheese layer adds a touch of indulgence, making them one of the best desserts with cream cheese. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them with a cup of coffee, these brownies are a must-try!

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tablespoon red food coloring
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for the cream cheese layer)
• Optional: raspberries for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. In a saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Stir in sugar and mix well. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
3. Once cooled, whisk in eggs and vanilla until combined.
4. In a separate bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this to the butter mixture, alternating with buttermilk. Mix until just combined.
5. Stir in the food coloring until the batter is a bright red color.
6. Pour half of the batter into the prepared baking dish. In a bowl, mix cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Spread this mixture over the first layer of batter, then pour the remaining batter on top.
7. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs. Let cool before cutting into squares.
8. Optional: Garnish with raspberries for a fresh touch.

Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish

The Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish is a delightful treat that combines flaky pastry with a creamy, sweet filling. Each bite offers a perfect balance of tangy cream cheese and fresh strawberries, making it a favorite for breakfast or dessert. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also pretty easy to whip up, perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.

This Danish is a great way to impress family and friends without spending all day in the kitchen. The layers of buttery pastry along with the luscious cream cheese filling make it a standout among desserts with cream cheese. Serve warm and watch everyone savor each bite!

Ingredients

• 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
• 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Set aside.
3. Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface and cut it into squares.
4. Place a spoonful of the cream cheese mixture in the center of each square, and top with a few slices of strawberries.
5. Fold the corners of the pastry over the filling, pinching them to secure. Brush the tops with the beaten egg.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown. Let cool slightly and dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Cinnamon Roll Cream Cheese Bars

Cinnamon Roll Cream Cheese Bars are a delightful twist on the classic cinnamon roll. These bars combine a creamy, dreamy cream cheese filling with that irresistible cinnamon-sugar swirl. They have a soft, chewy texture that melts in your mouth, making them perfect for dessert or even breakfast!

This recipe is surprisingly simple to whip up, requiring just a few ingredients and minimal prep time. The result is a comforting treat that’s sure to impress family and friends. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or indulging in a sweet moment at home, these bars are a must-try.

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup brown sugar

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8-inch baking dish.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract, then mix until well combined.
3. In another bowl, beat together softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, ground cinnamon, and brown sugar until smooth.
4. Spread half of the dough mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Layer the cream cheese mixture over it, then drop spoonfuls of the remaining dough on top.
5. Using a knife, swirl the layers together gently to create a marbled effect. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Let cool before slicing into bars, and enjoy these creamy, cinnamon-infused delights!

Blueberry Cream Cheese Muffins

Blueberry cream cheese muffins are a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of blueberries with the rich creaminess of cheese. These muffins are moist, fluffy, and bursting with flavor, making them perfect for breakfast or a snack. The cream cheese adds a subtle tang, creating a beautifully balanced taste.

This recipe is simple to make and requires minimal ingredients. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, you’ll find it easy to whip up a batch of these delicious muffins. Serve them warm, and enjoy the delightful explosion of flavors!

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 cup fresh blueberries

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder.
3. In another bowl, mix the melted butter, eggs, cream cheese, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Gently fold in the blueberries.
5. Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool before serving.

Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Bread

Pumpkin cream cheese swirl bread is a delightful treat that brings warmth and flavor to any table. The moist pumpkin bread is enhanced with a rich, creamy swirl of cream cheese, creating a perfect balance of sweetness and spice. It’s a simple recipe that even beginner bakers can master, making it an ideal choice for cozy gatherings or a sweet breakfast.

This bread is not only delicious but also versatile. Enjoy it on its own, or pair it with a cup of coffee for a comforting morning ritual. The combination of pumpkin and cream cheese makes it one of the best cream cheese desserts you can try!

Ingredients

• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, and eggs. Mix until smooth.
3. In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the pumpkin mixture, stirring until just combined.
5. In a separate bowl, beat together cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
6. Pour half of the pumpkin batter into the prepared loaf pan. Spoon half of the cream cheese mixture over the batter, and swirl gently with a knife. Repeat with the remaining pumpkin batter and cream cheese mixture.
7. Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Chocolate Chip Cream Cheese Cookies

Chocolate chip cream cheese cookies bring a delightful twist to a classic favorite. The addition of cream cheese makes these cookies incredibly soft and chewy, with a rich flavor that balances perfectly with the sweet chocolate chips. They’re simple to whip up, making them a great choice for both novice and experienced bakers.

These cookies are not just tasty; they are also versatile. You can customize them by adding nuts or even experimenting with different types of chocolate chips. Whether enjoyed with a glass of milk or served at a gathering, they are sure to impress. Here’s how to make these delectable treats!

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups chocolate chips

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, cream cheese, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
3. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
5. Fold in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
6. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Lemon Cream Cheese Pound Cake

Lemon Cream Cheese Pound Cake is a delightful treat that brings a zesty twist to the classic pound cake. The cream cheese adds a rich, moist texture, making each bite melt in your mouth. With a bright lemon flavor, it’s a perfect dessert for any occasion and surprisingly simple to whip up.

This cake is not only a delicious dessert but also pairs well with tea or coffee. The combination of sweet and tangy flavors is sure to impress family and friends, making it one of the best cream cheese desserts out there. Whether you’re a baking novice or an experienced cook, this easy cream cheese dessert recipe is a must-try!

Ingredients

• 1 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add the granulated sugar and continue mixing until fluffy.
3. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract and lemon zest until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the lemon juice, starting and ending with the flour.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your Lemon Cream Cheese Pound Cake!

Raspberry Cream Cheese Turnovers

Raspberry cream cheese turnovers are a delightful treat that combines the tangy flavor of cream cheese with the sweetness of raspberries. These flaky pastries are simple to make and are perfect for dessert or a sweet snack. You’ll enjoy the contrasting textures of the crispy outer layer and the creamy filling, making each bite a satisfying experience.

Perfect for any occasion, these turnovers can be served warm or at room temperature. They also pair wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just looking to satisfy a sweet tooth, this recipe is one of the best cream cheese desserts you can whip up in no time!

Ingredients

• 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup fresh raspberries
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gently fold in the raspberries.
3. Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Cut it into squares, about 4 inches by 4 inches.
4. Place a spoonful of the cream cheese and raspberry mixture in the center of each pastry square. Fold the square over to form a triangle and press the edges to seal, crimping with a fork if desired.
5. Brush the tops of the turnovers with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and puffed up.
7. Let cool for a few minutes, dust with powdered sugar, and serve warm or at room temperature.

No-Bake Oreo Cream Cheese Pie

No-Bake Oreo Cream Cheese Pie is a delightful dessert that’s both creamy and crunchy. With its rich cream cheese filling and a delicious Oreo crust, this pie is a treat for any occasion. It’s sweet, yet has that signature Oreo crunch, making each bite irresistible.

This pie is super simple to make, requiring no baking at all! Perfect for warm days or when you’re short on time, it’s one of those easy cream cheese dessert recipes that will impress your friends and family. If you love unique cream cheese sweet treats, this is definitely for you!

Ingredients

• 24 Oreo cookies
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
• Chocolate syrup for drizzling (optional)

Instructions

1. Make the Crust: Crush the Oreo cookies in a food processor until fine. Combine with melted butter and mix until well combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch pie dish to form a crust.
2. Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gently fold in the whipped topping until fully combined.
3. Assemble the Pie: Pour the cream cheese filling into the prepared Oreo crust, spreading it evenly. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until set.
4. Serve: Once set, drizzle chocolate syrup over the top if desired. Slice and enjoy this no-bake Oreo cream cheese pie!

Apple Cinnamon Cream Cheese Empanadas

Apple Cinnamon Cream Cheese Empanadas are a delightful twist on traditional pastries. These little pockets of joy are filled with a sweet and creamy apple filling, accented with warm cinnamon. The combination of flaky pastry and rich cream cheese creates a treat that is both comforting and delicious, perfect for any occasion.

Making these empanadas is quite simple, making it a great choice for both seasoned bakers and beginners alike. They are wonderful as a cozy dessert after dinner or as a sweet snack during the day. Top them off with a drizzle of caramel or a dusting of powdered sugar, and you have a dessert that is sure to impress!

Ingredients

• 1 package refrigerated pie crusts (2 crusts)
• 2 cups apples, peeled and diced
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Caramel sauce (for drizzling)
• Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the diced apples, cream cheese, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Stir until well combined.
3. Roll out the pie crusts on a floured surface and cut them into circles, about 4 inches in diameter.
4. Place a spoonful of the apple mixture in the center of each circle. Fold the crust over to form a half-moon shape and press the edges to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.
5. Brush the tops with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. Allow to cool slightly, then drizzle with caramel sauce and dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Carrot Cake With Cream Cheese Frosting

Carrot cake with cream cheese frosting is a classic dessert that perfectly balances sweet and spiced flavors. The moist and tender cake, enhanced by grated carrots and warm spices like cinnamon, creates a delightful taste experience. Topped with a rich and smooth cream cheese frosting, this dessert is both comforting and indulgent. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make, making it a great option for both beginners and seasoned bakers.

This recipe brings together the natural sweetness of carrots with the creamy tang of cheese, creating a dessert that’s hard to resist. It’s perfect for celebrations or just a cozy night in. So, if you’re looking for a delicious way to enjoy cream cheese, this carrot cake is definitely a must-try!

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 4 large eggs
• 3 cups grated carrots
• 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, beat together the oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Gradually stir the wet ingredients into the dry mixture until just combined.
4. Add the grated carrots and nuts (if using) and stir until evenly distributed.
5. Divide the batter between the prepared pans and smooth the tops. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
7. While the cakes cool, prepare the frosting by beating together the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until creamy.
8. Once the cakes are completely cool, spread a layer of frosting on top of one cake, place the other cake on top, and frost the top and sides. Decorate with additional nuts or carrot shavings if desired.

Explore Local Bakeries Offering Cream Cheese Delights

If you’re eager to try these cream cheese desserts but don’t have time to bake, why not support local businesses? Check out our dessert directory to find small bakeries near you offering delicious cream cheese-based treats. Discover unique flavors and enjoy fresh, handcrafted desserts while helping local shops thrive!

Sweeten Your Wardrobe with Our Churro-Themed Apparel

Show off your love for desserts with our fun churro-themed apparel! From cozy churro sweatshirts to playful T-shirts for the whole family, our collection brings a sprinkle of sweetness to your style. Perfect for bakers, dessert lovers, or anyone who loves to indulge in a little fun fashion!

Share Your Favorite Cream Cheese Recipes

Have a cream cheese dessert recipe that always hits the spot? We’d love to feature it! Submit your recipe and join our growing community of dessert enthusiasts. Your recipe could inspire others to enjoy the creamy, dreamy magic of cream cheese desserts!

These 12 irresistible cream cheese desserts are all about celebrating the smooth, rich flavor that makes every bite unforgettable. Whip up a batch, share with friends, or treat yourself to a moment of creamy bliss—no matter what, these desserts are sure to impress!