Description
This smooth, creamy, and versatile cream cheese filling is perfect for cakes, cupcakes, pastries, and more. With a balanced sweet and tangy flavor, a light, fluffy consistency, and just five simple ingredients, this filling is easy to make in under 10 minutes. Whether you’re looking to frost a cake, fill pastries, or create a luscious dessert layer, this silky homemade filling will take your baked goods to the next level.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz (226g) full-fat cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar, sifted
- ¼ cup (60ml) heavy cream, cold
- 1 teaspoon (5ml) vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon (optional) lemon zest
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened at room temperature and the heavy cream is cold before starting.
Beat the Cream Cheese
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese using a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed for about 2 minutes until smooth and creamy.
- Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure even mixing.
Incorporate the Powdered Sugar
- Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, starting at low speed to prevent spillage.
- Once fully incorporated, increase to medium-high speed and mix for another minute until smooth.
Add Flavor Enhancers
- Stir in the vanilla extract and optional lemon zest, blending on low speed until fully combined.
Whip the Heavy Cream
- In a separate bowl, whip the cold heavy cream using a clean whisk attachment or electric mixer on medium-high speed until it forms soft peaks (about 2–3 minutes).
Combine the Mixtures
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture using a spatula with slow, circular motions to maintain an airy texture.
- Continue folding until smooth and well combined.
Chill if Needed
- If a firmer consistency is preferred, refrigerate for 15–20 minutes before use.
Notes
- For extra stability, add ½ tablespoon cornstarch or 1 tablespoon instant vanilla pudding mix to help the filling hold its shape better when piping.
- For a lighter texture, replace heavy cream with whipped coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
- Flavor Variations: Try adding ½ teaspoon cinnamon, 1 tablespoon cocoa powder, or a few drops of almond extract for a unique twist.
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Before reuse, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes and whisk lightly.
- Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months in a sealed container. Thaw overnight in the fridge and whip before using to restore smoothness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: N/A (No cooking required)
- Category: Dessert, Frosting, Filling
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 40mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: cream cheese filling, cake filling, frosting alternative, whipped cream cheese, bakery-style filling, homemade cream cheese filling, no-bake dessert filling