Philadelphia cream cheese is a popular soft, spreadable cheese often used in cooking and as a topping or dip. The familiar foil-wrapped “single serve” portions are a convenient option for spreading on bagels or using in recipes. But how many calories are actually in one of those individual cream cheese packets?
Calories in Regular Philadelphia Cream Cheese Singles
The standard single serve packet of original Philadelphia cream cheese contains:
- 50 calories
- 5 grams fat
- 0 grams trans fat
- 0 mg cholesterol
- 55 mg sodium
- 1 gram carbohydrates
- 0 grams fiber
- 0 grams sugar
- 2 grams protein
So one packet of original Philadelphia cream cheese has 50 calories.
This is based on the nutrition information provided on Philadelphia cream cheese packaging. A standard 2 teaspoon (10g) serving size of Philadelphia cream cheese contains:
- 50 calories
- 5g total fat
And the single serve packets contain 2 teaspoons (10g) of cream cheese.
Calories in Philadelphia Cream Cheese Flavors
Philadelphia cream cheese is available in a variety of flavors in single serve packets, which each contain slightly different nutrition profiles.
Here is an overview of the calories in some popular flavored Philadelphia cream cheese packet options:
Garden Vegetable Cream Cheese
- 45 calories
- 4g fat
Strawberry Cream Cheese
- 50 calories
- 5g fat
Jalapeño Cream Cheese
- 50 calories
- 5g fat
Honey Walnut Cream Cheese
- 60 calories
- 5g fat
French Onion Cream Cheese
- 50 calories
- 5g fat
So the flavored varieties contain 45-60 calories per individual packet. The specific calorie count depends on the flavor, but most provide 50 calories per serving.
Nutritional Profile of Philadelphia Cream Cheese
Here is more detailed information on the nutrients found in original Philadelphia cream cheese:
Fat
Philadelphia cream cheese gets half of its calories from fat.
The 5g of total fat includes:
- 2.5g saturated fat
- 2g unsaturated fat
It contains both saturated and unsaturated fats. The saturated fat primarily comes from whole milk used to produce the cheese.
Carbohydrates
There is only 1g of carbohydrate in a serving of Philadelphia cream cheese. This comes from the small amount of lactose (milk sugar) naturally present in milk.
It contains no fiber or added sugars.
Protein
A serving provides 2g of protein. The protein comes from the milk used to make the cheese.
Sodium
Philadelphia cream cheese contains 55mg of sodium per serving. This is considered relatively low for a cheese product.
Vitamins and Minerals
Cream cheese also provides small amounts of vitamins and minerals, including:
- Calcium
- Phosphorus
- Vitamin A
These nutrients are naturally present in the milk used to produce the cheese.
Benefits of Cream Cheese
Here are some of the main benefits that cream cheese offers:
Convenient Source of Nutrition
Cream cheese provides a nutritious combination of protein, vitamins, and minerals in a spreadable form that is quick and easy to eat. The single serve packets make it especially convenient.
Source of Calcium
Cream cheese contains calcium, an important mineral for building and maintaining strong bones. One serving provides 4% of the recommended daily value.
Contains Protein
With 2g of protein per serving, cream cheese contributes to your daily protein intake, which helps maintain and repair tissues in the body.
Lower in Lactose
The lactose content of cream cheese is relatively low compared to other dairy products. This makes it easier to digest for those with lactose intolerance.
Adds Flavor and Texture
Cream cheese has a creamy, tangy flavor and smooth texture. It enhances the taste and mouthfeel of spreads, dips, bagels, pastries and more.
Versatile Ingredient
Cream cheese is used in countless sweet and savory recipes. It’s versatile enough to use for breakfast, snacks, appetizers, main dishes and desserts.
Downsides of Cream Cheese
However, there are some potential downsides to consider as well when eating cream cheese:
High in Saturated Fat
The saturated fat content is higher than some other cheese options. Too much saturated fat may raise unhealthy LDL cholesterol levels.
Contains Cholesterol
It also provides cholesterol, which should be limited to 300mg per day, according to health guidelines. Individuals with high cholesterol may want to carefully monitor intake.
Often High in Sodium
While Philadelphia cream cheese itself is relatively low in sodium, cream cheese is sometimes part of high sodium meals or recipes.
Can be High in Calories
When eaten in large amounts, cream cheese contributes significant calories and fat. Portion control is important, even when eating lower calorie versions.
Lactose Intolerance
Some individuals may not tolerate cream cheese well due to lactose intolerance or milk allergies.
Ways to Enjoy Philadelphia Cream Cheese
Here are some tips for enjoying Philadelphia cream cheese:
On Bagels or Toast
Use cream cheese as a spread on your favorite bagel, bread or toast in the morning or afternoon.
With Fruit
Top crackers or toast with cream cheese and your choice of fruit like strawberries or raspberries.
As a Dip
Serve cream cheese as a dip with pretzels, apple slices, graham crackers or celery sticks for a tasty snack.
In Baked Goods
Add a cream cheese filling or frosting to muffins, cupcakes, cakes, pancakes and other baked goods.
In Savory Recipes
Blend cream cheese into hot dips, chilled appetizers like jalapeño poppers, or main dishes like chicken crepes or pasta.
With Desserts
Enjoy cream cheese with apple or peach pie, cheesecake, ice cream or chocolate fondue for a rich treat.
As a Spread
Schmear cream cheese onto a breakfast sandwich or wrap, bruschetta, smoked salmon and more for extra flavor.
Types of Philadelphia Cream Cheese
Kraft produces several varieties of Philadelphia cream cheese:
Original
This is the standard plain cream cheese with a soft, creamy texture.
Low Fat
A lower fat version with 30% less fat than regular cream cheese.
Neufchâtel
A lighter, lower fat French-style cream cheese.
1/3 Less Fat
Contains one third less fat than the original version.
Fat Free
A fat free version for those closely watching fat intake.
Flavored
Options include garden vegetable, strawberry, jalapeño, honey walnut, cinnamon, chocolate, and more.
Whipped
Whipped Philadelphia cream cheese has air beaten in for a lighter texture.
Storing Philadelphia Cream Cheese
Properly storing cream cheese helps maintain quality and freshness. Here are some storage tips:
Refrigerate after Opening
Once opened, cream cheese should always be refrigerated. Keep the foil packet sealed in an airtight container in the fridge.
Use by Expiration Date
Look for a “use by” or “best by” date on the packaging and consume cream cheese by this date for best flavor.
Eat within 1-2 Weeks
It’s recommended to eat refrigerated cream cheese within 1-2 weeks after opening for best taste and texture.
Avoid Freezer Burn
Cream cheese can be frozen but may develop freezer burn. For best results, place in an airtight container or wrap tightly in plastic before freezing.
Look for Mold
Check cream cheese for signs of mold, which may appear as blue, green, black or white fuzzy spots. Discard if mold is visible.
Cooking and Baking with Cream Cheese
When cooking and baking with cream cheese, keep these tips in mind:
Allow to Soften
Remove cream cheese from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before using to allow it to soften for easier mixing and spreading.
Use at Room Temperature
For most recipes, cream cheese should be used at room temperature. Cold cream cheese won’t blend smoothly.
Avoid Curdling
If heated too quickly or to high temps, cream cheese can curdle and separate. Gently warm over low heat.
Mix Thoroughly
Beat cream cheese until completely smooth and lump-free before adding other ingredients like sugar or eggs.
Strengthen Structure
For baked goods, strengthen the structure by mixing a small amount of flour or cornstarch into cream cheese fillings or frostings.
Chill Before Serving
Refrigerate cheesecake, cream cheese frosting and dips for at least 2 hours before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Nutrition Information
Here is the full nutrition information for Philadelphia cream cheese according to the FDA:
| Serving Size | 2 tsp (10g) |
| Calories | 50 |
| Total Fat | 5g |
| Saturated Fat | 2.5g |
| Trans Fat | 0g |
| Cholesterol | 15mg |
| Sodium | 55mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 1g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0g |
| Total Sugars | 1g |
| Protein | 2g |
The Bottom Line
So how many calories are in those handy single serve Philadelphia cream cheese packets?
The standard original foil-wrapped packets contain 50 calories per serving.
This provides 2 teaspoons (10g) of Philadelphia’s thick, creamy classic cream cheese to spread on bagels, toast and more.
The flavored cream cheese varieties range from 45-60 calories per individual packet.
So you can enjoy the convenience, taste and nutrients of Philadelphia cream cheese in sensible 50 calorie portions.
Watch the fat, cholesterol and sodium levels if consuming multiple servings. Otherwise, this ubiquitious cream cheese is an enjoyable part of a balanced diet.
Whether spreading it on an everything bagel for breakfast, using it to make a cheesecake for dessert, or any occasion in between, Philadelphia cream cheese is a nutritional and flavorful addition to meals and snacks.
