Cream cheese is a versatile dairy product that can be used in a wide variety of dishes, from rich cheesecakes to simple bagel spreads. Though block cream cheese and tub cream cheese might appear to be similar, there are significant differences that can affect how you use them in your recipes and everyday meals. In this in-depth guide, we’ll explore these differences, discuss when to use each type, and provide tips and recommendations for the best results.
1. The Origins of Cream Cheese
Before we dive into the details of block and tub cream cheese, it’s essential to understand where cream cheese comes from. Cream cheese originated in the United States in the late 1800s, but it has roots in various other soft cheeses produced in Europe for centuries. Early versions of cream cheese were made by mixing rich milk with cream and leaving it to naturally thicken.
In 1872, a dairyman named William Lawrence in Chester, New York, accidentally created the first modern cream cheese by adding extra cream to traditional Neufchâtel cheese. Lawrence’s version was much richer, creamier, and smoother than any cheese before it. He began to sell this product under the name “cream cheese,” and eventually, in 1880, the brand Philadelphia Cream Cheese was born, named after the city known for its high-quality dairy products at the time. Philadelphia cream cheese remains one of the most famous brands today.
2. What is Block Cream Cheese?
Block cream cheese is the traditional form of cream cheese, packaged in a dense, rectangular shape and wrapped in foil. It’s the form that most closely resembles the original cream cheese developed in the 1800s. Because of its density, block cream cheese has a very firm texture right out of the fridge, making it the go-to for baking and recipes that require precise measurements.
Characteristics of Block Cream Cheese:
- Firm texture: It holds its shape well and softens slowly.
- Rich flavor: The higher fat content gives it a deeper and more pronounced dairy flavor.
- Minimal additives: Block cream cheese generally contains fewer stabilizers, which means it’s more “pure” and closer to the original recipe.
Historical Uses of Block Cream Cheese:
Historically, block cream cheese was used in a variety of cooking and baking recipes, particularly in cheesecakes, frostings, and dips. Its texture allowed it to create the smooth and creamy consistency needed for these recipes. Over time, the popularity of block cream cheese grew as more chefs and home cooks realized its potential.
Best Uses for Block Cream Cheese:
- Baking: Cheesecakes, cream cheese frosting, cream cheese cookies.
- Cooking: Creamy soups, stuffed chicken breasts, dips, and sauces.
- Spreads: After softening, it can be used as a spread for bagels, crackers, or toast.
Many baking experts and chefs prefer block cream cheese because it maintains a stable consistency when heated, making it perfect for recipes like New York-style cheesecake, which requires a smooth and creamy texture.
3. What is Tub Cream Cheese?
On the other hand, tub cream cheese was developed later as a more convenient, spreadable option. Tub cream cheese is softer right out of the fridge and is designed to be used immediately for spreading on bagels, toast, or sandwiches. It typically contains more moisture than block cream cheese, as well as added stabilizers to maintain its smooth, spreadable consistency.
Characteristics of Tub Cream Cheese:
- Softer texture: Easy to spread straight from the fridge.
- Added stabilizers: It often contains ingredients like xanthan gum or guar gum to improve spreadability.
- Lighter flavor: The additional moisture can dilute the flavor slightly, making it less intense than block cream cheese.
Convenience and Modern Use:
With modern busy lifestyles, many people prefer tub cream cheese for its ease of use. It’s pre-softened and can be spread immediately, making it a popular choice for quick breakfast items or snacks. Over the years, it has become the preferred form for non-baking uses, such as spreading on bagels or using in dips.
However, while it’s great for spreading, the softer texture and added moisture make it less ideal for baking, as it doesn’t hold up as well when heated.
Best Uses for Tub Cream Cheese:
- Spreading: Bagels, toast, crackers.
- Quick dips: Easy to mix into quick dips for parties or snacks.
- Smooth textures: Can be whipped into mashed potatoes or used as a topping for savory dishes.
4. Key Differences Between Block and Tub Cream Cheese
Now that we’ve introduced both types, let’s dive deeper into the key differences between block and tub cream cheese and when you should use each type.
Texture and Consistency:
- Block cream cheese is much firmer and denser, while tub cream cheese is softer and more spreadable.
- Block cream cheese holds its shape better, making it more suitable for recipes requiring precise consistency, such as cheesecake or frosting.
Fat Content and Nutritional Profile:
- Block cream cheese generally contains more fat, which is why it has a richer texture and flavor. The higher fat content makes it more ideal for baking and cooking, as the fat helps provide structure and flavor.
- Tub cream cheese typically contains added water and stabilizers, which slightly reduce its fat content, making it a lighter option for those looking for something less dense.
Ingredients:
- Block cream cheese is closer to its original form with minimal additives. It usually only contains cream, milk, salt, and starter cultures.
- Tub cream cheese often includes additional ingredients like stabilizers (xanthan gum, guar gum) and emulsifiers to improve spreadability and shelf life.
Best Uses in Cooking and Baking:
- Block cream cheese is superior for baking and cooking because it softens evenly and maintains its texture under heat. Its dense consistency makes it the preferred choice for cheesecakes, frostings, and creamy dips.
- Tub cream cheese is perfect for spreading on bagels, toast, or crackers, and it can be whipped into quick dips or sauces where a softer consistency is desirable. However, it’s less suitable for recipes requiring a firmer texture.
Shelf Life and Storage:
- Block cream cheese has a shorter shelf life once opened due to its lack of preservatives. It should be wrapped tightly in foil and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator to prevent it from drying out.
- Tub cream cheese, due to its stabilizers, tends to have a longer shelf life and is often sold in resealable containers, making it more convenient for daily use.
5. Detailed Comparison for Baking and Cooking
Why Block Cream Cheese is Better for Baking:
When it comes to baking, block cream cheese is the preferred choice. Its dense, rich texture provides structure to baked goods, and it blends smoothly into batters without becoming too runny. For instance, a cheesecake made with tub cream cheese would not set as firmly as one made with block cream cheese due to the extra moisture.
Tips for Baking with Block Cream Cheese:
- Always soften block cream cheese at room temperature before using it in recipes. Cold cream cheese can result in lumps when mixed into batters.
- Use full-fat block cream cheese for the best results in cheesecakes and frostings. Low-fat versions tend to be too watery and can affect the texture of your final product.
Why Tub Cream Cheese Isn’t Ideal for Baking:
Because of its added moisture and stabilizers, tub cream cheese doesn’t hold up well in baked recipes. The extra water can cause baked goods to become too soft or even watery, and the stabilizers may prevent the cream cheese from blending smoothly into batters. While tub cream cheese is perfect for spreading and quick dips, it’s not recommended for recipes that require a dense, firm texture, such as a cheesecake or cream cheese cookies.
Tips for Using Tub Cream Cheese:
- If you need cream cheese for spreading, opt for tub cream cheese because it’s easy to use right out of the fridge.
- To mimic the firmness of block cream cheese in a recipe, you can drain some of the moisture from tub cream cheese by placing it in a fine-mesh sieve over a bowl for a few hours.
6. Spreading and Snacking: Which is Better?
For snacking or quick breakfasts, tub cream cheese is the clear winner. Its spreadable texture makes it easy to use on bagels, toast, crackers, and sandwiches. In contrast, block cream cheese needs to be softened before it can be spread easily, which can be time-consuming.
Popular Snacks Using Tub Cream Cheese:
- Bagels and Cream Cheese: The classic combination that tub cream cheese was practically made for. Spread a generous layer of cream cheese on a freshly toasted bagel for a simple and delicious breakfast.
- Crackers and Cream Cheese: Tub cream cheese can be flavored with herbs or spices for an easy party appetizer.
- Cream Cheese and Veggie Sticks: Tub cream cheese works well as a dip for vegetable sticks, offering a quick and healthy snack option.
7. Shelf Life and Storage Considerations
Block Cream Cheese Storage:
Block cream cheese should always be kept in the refrigerator, tightly wrapped in its original foil packaging or stored in an airtight container. Once opened, it’s best used within 7-10 days to ensure freshness and prevent spoilage.
Tub Cream Cheese Storage:
Tub cream cheese, thanks to its stabilizers and preservatives, has a longer shelf life than block cream cheese. It typically comes in resealable containers that make it easy to store in the fridge after each use. Tub cream cheese can last up to two weeks after opening if kept properly sealed.
8. Health and Nutrition: Is Tub Cream Cheese Healthier?
For those looking to cut calories or fat, tub cream cheese might seem like the healthier option, but the differences in fat and calorie content between the two types are relatively minor. However, some people prefer tub cream cheese because it contains fewer calories per serving, thanks to the added water.
Block vs. Tub Cream Cheese Nutritional Comparison:
- Block cream cheese (per 1 oz): 100 calories, 9g fat, 1g carbohydrate, 2g protein.
- Tub cream cheese (per 1 oz): 70-80 calories, 6-7g fat, 1-2g carbohydrate, 1-2g protein.
While tub cream cheese may contain fewer calories, it’s essential to consider that this is due to the added water, which dilutes the overall flavor and richness. For recipes requiring a more robust cream cheese flavor, block cream cheese is the better choice.
9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use tub cream cheese in place of block cream cheese for a cheesecake?
While it’s technically possible, using tub cream cheese in cheesecake recipes is not recommended. The extra moisture in tub cream cheese can make the cheesecake too soft, and it may not set as firmly as it would with block cream cheese. If you’re in a pinch, you can drain the tub cream cheese to remove some of the moisture, but the texture may still not be ideal.
How can I soften block cream cheese for spreading?
To soften block cream cheese, remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 15-30 minutes. You can also microwave it for 10-15 seconds (without the foil) to speed up the process. Once softened, it can be spread more easily.
Is tub cream cheese safe to use in baking?
While tub cream cheese can technically be used in baked goods, it’s not ideal due to its added moisture and stabilizers. Recipes that require a firm texture, such as cheesecakes or cream cheese frosting, may not turn out as well with tub cream cheese. For best results, stick with block cream cheese when baking.
Can I freeze cream cheese?
Both block and tub cream cheese can be frozen, but freezing may affect their texture. When thawed, cream cheese may become crumbly or watery. If you plan to freeze cream cheese, it’s best to use it in cooking or baking rather than spreading, as the texture won’t be the same.
What are some alternative uses for cream cheese?
- Stuffed vegetables: Mix cream cheese with herbs and spices and use it to stuff bell peppers, mushrooms, or jalapeños for a flavorful appetizer.
- Sauces: Cream cheese can be used to thicken sauces, adding a creamy texture to pasta or chicken dishes.
- Mashed potatoes: Stir a dollop of cream cheese into mashed potatoes for an extra creamy texture.
10. Conclusion: Which Type of Cream Cheese Should You Choose?
In conclusion, the choice between block cream cheese and tub cream cheese ultimately depends on how you plan to use it. If you’re looking to bake a cheesecake or whip up a batch of cream cheese frosting, block cream cheese is the clear winner. Its dense texture and rich flavor make it ideal for recipes that require structure.
On the other hand, if you’re in need of a quick, spreadable option for bagels, crackers, or toast, tub cream cheese is the more convenient choice. Its softer texture and longer shelf life make it perfect for everyday use.
In many kitchens, it makes sense to keep both types of cream cheese on hand. With both options available, you’ll always have the right product for the job, whether you’re baking a decadent cheesecake or simply spreading a little cream cheese on your morning bagel.
By understanding the differences between block cream cheese and tub cream cheese, you can make informed decisions about which type to use for your cooking and baking needs.