Cream cheese can be frozen indefinitely, but use it within two months for best culinary results. Defrosted cream cheese may be crumbly, but stirring vigorously should restore its smooth texture. Thaw ...

You've got a short window to soften your cream cheese safely. Cream cheese should not sit out at room temperature for more than two hours due to the risk of bacterial growth and food poisoning.

Whether you're smearing it on a bagel, folding it into a cheesecake or whipping it into a silky frosting, cream cheese adds unmissable smoothness and flavor. "The big appeal of cream cheese is that it ...