you could put it back in the fridgebut only within this window of time.
Iits mild, yet tangy flavor melds beautifully into both sweet and savory preparations, ranging fromcaketodips.
I asked a food safety expert all the hard-hitting questions to find out.
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Given that cream cheese is a dairy product full of protein and moisture, it is definitely not shelf-stable.
That said, the cheese can be safely left out on the counter to soften for a specified period.
Cream cheese should not be left out at room temperature for more than two hours.
After that, bacteria can start to grow quickly, increasing the risk of foodborne illness.
Harmful bacteria may not be visible or affect taste but could still make you sick, Thiel adds.
Re-seal and return the product to the refrigerator immediately after serving or using.
Freezing can change its texture, making it more crumbly and less smooth when thawed, Thiel says.
With your properly-stored cream cheese, the culinary options are nearly endless.
