Guide Note

Cream cheese is a soft cheese developed in Chester, New York in 1872. Made from a combination of heavy cream and whole milk, it was originally developed as an alternative to other soft cheeses, such as Neufchatel and Brie.

Fast Facts

1. Contains at least 33% milkfat
2. Most often spread on bagels or used in cheesecake
3. Popular seasoning: Garlic; Chives; Dill; Olives
4. Europe: Cream cheese eaten as cheese rather than spread
5. Origin: United States 1872
6. Contains more fat than the average cheese

Despite the labeling of many cream cheeses as "Philadelphia" cream cheese, it did not actually originate in Philadelphia. According to Kraft Foods, the United States' largest manufacturer of cream cheese, the product was called "Philadelphia" cheese based on 19th century perception that foods from the city were of a higher quality. In many parts of Europe, cream cheese is referred to simply as "Philadelphia."

The Kraft Food company alone has over ten varieties of cream cheese, including strawberry, salmon, pineapple and blueberry. Most cream cheese manufacturers also sell lower-fat varieties. These products may not spread as well or bake in a pie.