Ingredient substitute

What can you use instead of cream cheese?

Neufchatel cheese, Mascarpone (thinned) and Vegan cream cheese (store-bought) are the easiest swaps. Below: 8 options with the right amount to use, what changes in the dish and which diets they suit.

The quick answer

Neufchatel cheese. Use the same amount. Lower fat, same flavor. Slightly less creamy.

Adjust: Use block form, not whipped.

Neufchatel cheese
Drop-in swap

Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

Lower fat, same flavor. Slightly less creamy.

Flavor
Identical.

Texture
Slightly softer.

Moisture
Same.

Adjust
Use block form, not whipped.

Best for
Any recipe, Bagels, Spreads

low fat
Mascarpone (thinned)
Drop-in swap

Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

Richer, higher fat. Slightly sweet.

Flavor
Sweet, rich.

Texture
Very creamy.

Moisture
Same.

Adjust
May need very slight milk thinning.

Best for
Tiramisu, Frostings, Cheesecake
Vegan cream cheese (store-bought)
Drop-in swap

Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

Best vegan swap. Brands vary — Miyoko's and Kite Hill are top.

Flavor
Tangy, close to dairy.

Texture
Close to dairy.

Moisture
Same.

Adjust
Let come to room temp before using.

Best for
Any frosting, Cheesecake, Spreads

vegan · dairy free
Greek yogurt (strained 24h)
Small adjustment

Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

Strain in cheesecloth until thick. Tangy.

Flavor
Tangier than cream cheese.

Texture
Similar thickness when strained long.

Moisture
Lower — may need splash of milk.

Adjust
Strain overnight in fridge.

Best for
Dips, Frostings, Spreads

low fat
Cashew cream
Small adjustment

Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

Soak 4h, blend smooth + lemon juice.

Flavor
Nutty, tangy with lemon.

Texture
Smooth, rich.

Moisture
Same when properly thinned.

Adjust
Add 1 tbsp lemon juice per cup for tang.

Best for
Cheesecake, Frostings, Vegan dips

vegan · dairy free
Silken tofu + lemon juice
Small adjustment

Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

Blend smooth. Neutral, thick.

Flavor
Neutral, tang with lemon.

Texture
Smooth, slightly gelatinous.

Moisture
High — strain if needed.

Adjust
Press tofu briefly to remove excess water.

Best for
Vegan cheesecake, Frostings

vegan · dairy free
Coconut cream + lemon juice
Small adjustment

Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

Whipped coconut cream + lemon for tang.

Flavor
Coconut undertone.

Texture
Light, fluffy when whipped.

Moisture
Same.

Adjust
Add 1 tbsp lemon per cup. Chill before using.

Best for
Vegan frosting, Vegan cheesecake

vegan · dairy free
Ricotta (blended)
Small adjustment

Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

Blend smooth for cream cheese texture.

Flavor
Mild, slightly sweet.

Texture
Grainy unless blended very well.

Moisture
Higher — strain if needed.

Adjust
Blend with fork or food processor.

Best for
Baked dishes, Pasta filling, Cannoli

Common questions

What is the best substitute for cream cheese?

Neufchatel cheese is the closest swap. Use the same amount. Lower fat, same flavor. Slightly less creamy.

What is a vegan substitute for cream cheese?

Good vegan options are Vegan cream cheese (store-bought), Cashew cream, Silken tofu + lemon juice and Coconut cream + lemon juice.

What is a dairy-free substitute for cream cheese?

Good dairy-free options are Vegan cream cheese (store-bought), Cashew cream, Silken tofu + lemon juice and Coconut cream + lemon juice.

How much should I use instead of cream cheese?

It depends on the swap. Neufchatel cheese: Use the same amount. Mascarpone (thinned): Use the same amount. Vegan cream cheese (store-bought): Use the same amount.