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Can whipped cream cheese be used in place of regular?

Many of us have tubs of whipped cream cheese in our freezers as well as the more typical blocks. To find out if the two are interchangeable, we used both types (measured by weight) in our Foolproof New York Cheesecake (see related content) and in cream cheese frosting.

Whilst some tasters thought the whipped cream cheese frosting to be significantly less acidic than the block cream cheese frosting, they all deemed it to be satisfactory. In fact, many people favored its lighter, smoother feel. The cheesecake, on the other hand, was a different story. While both cakes looked the part, the one made with whipped cream cheese had an unacceptably granular and slightly wet consistency in comparison with the dense, creamy texture of the one made with block cream cheese.

The manufacturing process may explain these variations. Block cream cheese is prepared by combining milk and cream with a cheese culture, which allows the proteins to congeal slowly and yields a rich, smooth mass. Whipped cream cheese is coagulated with lactic acid, which is a faster process (and less expensive). It generates a thick network of tiny protein particles, giving the cheese a grainier texture. Nevertheless, since the cheese is beaten, the graininess isn’t as evident when eaten alone or in raw applications like icing (additives also help it maintain that lighter, spreadable consistency). But, when baked, the tight networks constrict even more and eject water. As a result, the cheesecake is gritty and watery. Finally, a pH meter test revealed why the whipped cheese was less sour than the block style: The whipped product has a higher pH, indicating that it contains less lactic acid due to being coagulated considerably faster.

THE BOTTOM LINE: We suggest using the conventional block of cream cheese in recipes that call for it. In cases where it is not heated, the whipped product is acceptable provided you substitute by weight.

Can whipped cream cheese be used in place of regular? TAKES THE CAKE: Cheesecake made using block cream cheese is delightfully creamy and rich.
Can whipped cream cheese be used in place of regular? GOT WHIPPED: The whipped product produced grainy, wet results.

Related Questions

  • Is whipped cream cheese the same as regular cream cheese?

    What Is the Difference Between Whipped and Normal Cream Cheese? Unlike regular cream cheese, cream cheese that has been whipped incorporates much more air into the cream cheese due to the whipping process. This extra air gives it a light and fluffy texture, making it ideal for spreading.

  • How many ounces of whipped cream cheese equals regular cream cheese?

    A cup of whipped cream cheese, on the other hand, weights far less. A cup of whipped cream cheese is just approximately 6.4 ounces on average. That’s over 2 ounces less than ordinary cream cheese!

  • What’s the difference between whipped cream cheese frosting and regular?

    Whipped cream cheese frosting is not too sweet like typical cream cheese frosting or buttercream. The flavor and texture are much more like a thicker version of whipped cream, the consistency is perfect.

  • Can I use whipped cream cheese spread instead of cream cheese?

    THE BOTTOM LINE: In recipes for which cream cheese is cooked, we recommend sticking with the traditional block. In circumstances when it is not heated, the whipped product may be substituted by weight.