4 Mistakes You're Making With Plastic Wrap, Says Reynolds

4 Mistakes You're Making With Plastic Wrap, Says Reynolds

M Hasan    11:00 AM   

Understanding the Proper Use of Plastic Wrap in the Kitchen

Plastic wrap is a common household item that offers convenience for food storage and cooking. However, improper use can lead to a variety of issues, including melted messes, food spoilage, and even safety risks. To ensure you're using plastic wrap effectively and safely, it's important to understand its limitations and best practices.

Key Limitations of Plastic Wrap

One of the most significant drawbacks of plastic wrap is its susceptibility to melting at high temperatures. Unlike the seal found on frozen meal packaging, which is designed for oven use, standard plastic wrap is made from polyethylene—a thin and flexible material that can easily melt when exposed to heat. This means that plastic wrap should never be used in ovens, grills, or other high-heat appliances. According to Charry Edwards Brown, senior manager at Reynolds Test Kitchen, plastic wrap should not be used at temperatures above 212°F (100°C).

Risks Associated with Certain Foods

Foods high in fat or sugar can also pose challenges when using plastic wrap. Fatty foods, especially those containing unsaturated fatty acids like vegetable oils, have a low melting point and can heat up quickly. This rapid heating can cause the plastic wrap to melt or even explode, leading to chemical leaching and splattering. Similarly, sugary foods, such as caramelized sugars, can reach high temperatures quickly and create bubbling effects that make them unsafe for use with plastic wrap.

Proper Venting and Spacing

When using plastic wrap in the microwave, it’s essential to vent the wrap properly. Failure to do so can result in steam buildup, which may cause the plastic to melt or even explode. To prevent this, turn back one corner of the wrap or make a small slit to allow steam to escape. Additionally, leaving about an inch of space between the food and the plastic wrap helps reduce the risk of the wrap melting onto the food. It’s also advisable to heat food in short intervals—around three minutes—to avoid overheating.

Creating an Airtight Seal

When storing food, creating an airtight seal with plastic wrap is crucial. This helps prevent air and moisture from entering, which can lead to drying, wilting, and oxidation. An airtight seal also helps keep odors from other foods from affecting the taste of your stored items. For freezing, using double layers of plastic wrap, freezer paper, or aluminum foil can help prevent freezer burn. A useful tip from Brown is to press plastic wrap over ice cream before sealing the container, as this helps keep air out and prevents ice crystal formation.

Alternatives to Plastic Wrap

There are several alternatives to plastic wrap that can be used depending on the cooking method. For oven, toaster oven, or air fryer use, aluminum foil and parchment paper are excellent choices due to their ability to withstand higher temperatures. Air fryer liners can also simplify cleanup. For slow cookers and pressure cookers, slow cooker liners are specifically designed for these appliances. When grilling or broiling, heavy-duty aluminum foil, such as Reynolds Grill Foil, is a durable and nonstick option.

Conclusion

Plastic wrap is a versatile tool in the kitchen, but it requires careful handling to avoid potential issues. By following expert advice, such as avoiding high-heat applications, being mindful of fatty and sugary foods, and using proper venting and spacing techniques, you can maximize the benefits of plastic wrap while minimizing risks. When necessary, alternatives like aluminum foil, parchment paper, and slow cooker liners offer safe and effective options for various cooking scenarios.

60 Cream Cheese Recipes

60 Cream Cheese Recipes

M Hasan    6:16 AM   

A Collection of Cream Cheese-Based Recipes for Every Occasion

Cream cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be used in both sweet and savory dishes. Whether you're looking for a quick snack, a fancy appetizer, or a decadent dessert, there's a cream cheese recipe to suit your taste. Below are some popular recipes that highlight the creamy texture and rich flavor of cream cheese.

Baked Crab Dip

This elegant crab dip is perfect for any gathering. It looks fancy but is surprisingly easy to make. You can even prepare it ahead of time by filling a bread bowl early in the day and chilling it until serving. Just take it out of the refrigerator 30 minutes before baking. The recipe includes 28 reviews and is approved by the Test Kitchen.

Nutrition Facts (per 2 tablespoons):
- 100 calories
- 6g fat (4g saturated fat)
- 24mg cholesterol
- 140mg sodium
- 7g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber)
- 4g protein

If you're looking for more cheesy inspiration, check out these top cream cheese dip recipes.

Birthday Cheesecake

This cheesecake combines vanilla and almond extract for a traditional birthday cake flavor. Fold in sprinkles for a colorful confetti effect and top with whipped cream and extra sprinkles. The recipe has 2 reviews and is also approved by the Test Kitchen.

Nutrition Facts (per 16 pieces):
- 404 calories
- 27g fat (14g saturated fat)
- 102mg cholesterol
- 231mg sodium
- 36g carbohydrate (28g sugars, 0 fiber)
- 5g protein

Obatzda

Known as German beer cheese dip, this creamy and delicious dish is perfect for making the night before a get-together. The recipe has 2 reviews and is approved by the Test Kitchen.

Nutrition Facts (per 2 tablespoons):
- 79 calories
- 7g fat (4g saturated fat)
- 20mg cholesterol
- 183mg sodium
- 1g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber)
- 4g protein

Red Velvet Pound Cake

This red velvet pound cake is a perfect combination of flavors. Make sure the cake has cooled before icing it; for extra crunch, sprinkle some roasted pecans on top. The recipe has 3 reviews and is approved by the Test Kitchen.

Nutrition Facts (per 1 piece):
- 639 calories
- 30g fat (14g saturated fat)
- 123mg cholesterol
- 281mg sodium
- 87g carbohydrate (67g sugars, 1g fiber)
- 7g protein

Cheese Danishes

These flaky cheese danishes are just as decadent as any breakfast pastry you'd find in a bakery. The recipe has 1 review and is approved by the Test Kitchen.

Nutrition Facts (per 1 roll):
- 359 calories
- 21g fat (12g saturated fat)
- 111mg cholesterol
- 468mg sodium
- 37g carbohydrate (12g sugars, 1g fiber)
- 7g protein

Key Lime Blondie Bars

These blondie bars combine the taste of classic key lime pie with a blondie batter and cream cheese frosting. The recipe has 6 reviews and is approved by the Test Kitchen.

Nutrition Facts (per 1 blondie):
- 422 calories
- 19g fat (11g saturated fat)
- 69mg cholesterol
- 283mg sodium
- 62g carbohydrate (51g sugars, 1g fiber)
- 3g protein

Strawberry Pretzel Pie

This cool no-bake strawberry pie is the perfect cure for your sweet tooth, especially in summer. Made with pantry staples, it is as easy as pie to make. The recipe has 13 reviews and is a contest winner.

Nutrition Facts (per 1 piece):
- 350 calories
- 19g fat (12g saturated fat)
- 56mg cholesterol
- 284mg sodium
- 39g carbohydrate (30g sugars, 1g fiber)
- 4g protein

Apples ‘n’ Cream Pancake

This cozy recipe is perfect for breakfast or brunch. With its own orchard, the creator uses Delicious and Winesap apples for a true midwestern meal. The recipe has 9 reviews and is approved by the Test Kitchen.

Nutrition Facts (per 1 piece):
- 265 calories
- 16g fat (8g saturated fat)
- 108mg cholesterol
- 204mg sodium
- 24g carbohydrate (14g sugars, 1g fiber)
- 7g protein

Apricot Salad

This colorful gelatin salad adds a spot of brightness to any table. It blends well with this holiday feast. The recipe has 2 reviews and is approved by the Test Kitchen.

Nutrition Facts (per 1 cup):
- 235 calories
- 11g fat (7g saturated fat)
- 25mg cholesterol
- 121mg sodium
- 31g carbohydrate (29g sugars, 0 fiber)
- 4g protein

Mini Cherry Cheesecakes

These little cheesecakes make a fun dessert that’s just right for cooks who don’t have a lot of time for fussy recipes. Plus, you get to eat a whole mini cheesecake yourself! The recipe has 15 reviews and is approved by the Test Kitchen.

Nutrition Facts (per 1 mini cheesecake):
- 213 calories
- 12g fat (6g saturated fat)
- 44mg cholesterol
- 127mg sodium
- 26g carbohydrate (21g sugars, 1g fiber)
- 2g protein

Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread

This combination of pumpkin, nuts and dates makes a delicious, golden pumpkin cream cheese bread. The surprise inside—a rich creamy swirl—is like a luscious layer of cheesecake in each slice. The recipe has 49 reviews and is approved by the Test Kitchen.

Nutrition Facts (per 1 piece):
- 189 calories
- 8g fat (2g saturated fat)
- 27mg cholesterol
- 132mg sodium
- 27g carbohydrate (17g sugars, 1g fiber)
- 3g protein

Spinach Turnovers

The flaky cream cheese pastry adds sensational texture to these hot appetizers—and just wait until you taste the wonderful filling. The recipe has 3 reviews and is a contest winner.

Nutrition Facts (per 1 turnover):
- 103 calories
- 8g fat (4g saturated fat)
- 23mg cholesterol
- 129mg sodium
- 6g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber)
- 2g protein

Pineapple Sheet Cake

This sheet cake is perfect for serving to a crowd. It keeps so well that you can easily prepare it a day ahead and it will stay moist. The recipe has 61 reviews and is approved by the Test Kitchen.

Nutrition Facts (per 1 piece):
- 315 calories
- 12g fat (5g saturated fat)
- 38mg cholesterol
- 227mg sodium
- 49g carbohydrate (39g sugars, 1g fiber)
- 4g protein

Duo Tater Bake

This creamy and comforting potato dish is a winner with family and friends. The recipe has 22 reviews and is a contest winner.

Nutrition Facts (per 3/4 cup):
- 236 calories
- 12g fat (8g saturated fat)
- 38mg cholesterol
- 246mg sodium
- 25g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 2g fiber)
- 5g protein

Banana Cake

As a mother of three sons, the creator always has sweets in her kitchen. This banana cake is often requested for family picnics and dinners. The recipe has 45 reviews and is approved by the Test Kitchen.

Nutrition Facts (per 1 piece):
- 416 calories
- 15g fat (6g saturated fat)
- 42mg cholesterol
- 269mg sodium
- 66g carbohydrate (47g sugars, 1g fiber)
- 4g protein

Red Velvet Thumbprint Cookies

These festive sugar-coated red velvet cookies are perfect for Christmas. They’re just as delicious as they are beautiful. The recipe has 9 reviews and is approved by the Test Kitchen.

Nutrition Facts (per 1 cookie):
- 166 calories
- 10g fat (6g saturated fat)
- 33mg cholesterol
- 39mg sodium
- 19g carbohydrate (10g sugars, 0 fiber)
- 2g protein

Shrimp Spread

There's no secret to this creamy seafood appetizer—it's simply delicious! The recipe has 13 reviews and is approved by the Test Kitchen.

Nutrition Facts (per 2 tablespoons):
- 136 calories
- 10g fat (5g saturated fat)
- 62mg cholesterol
- 372mg sodium
- 4g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 1g fiber)
- 8g protein

Pecan Pumpkin Dessert

This treat is made for Thanksgiving. A friend gave the recipe, and it has since been shared with many others. The recipe has 18 reviews and is approved by the Test Kitchen.

Nutrition Facts (per 1 piece):
- 568 calories
- 33g fat (17g saturated fat)
- 94mg cholesterol
- 396mg sodium
- 60g carbohydrate (43g sugars, 3g fiber)
- 7g protein

Cucumber Canapes

These delicate finger sandwiches with a creamy herb spread are always a hit. The recipe has 4 reviews and is approved by the Test Kitchen.

Nutrition Facts (per 1 canape):
- 120 calories
- 9g fat (2g saturated fat)
- 7mg cholesterol
- 134mg sodium
- 8g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber)
- 2g protein

Easy Cheese-Stuffed Jalapenos

A few years ago, the creator saw a man buying a big bag of jalapeno peppers and learned this recipe from him. The recipe has 24 reviews and is approved by the Test Kitchen.

Nutrition Facts (per 1 piece):
- 141 calories
- 12g fat (8g saturated fat)
- 39mg cholesterol
- 200mg sodium
- 3g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 1g fiber)
- 6g protein

Potato Chowder

This savory potato soup is made with cream cheese and bacon. The recipe has 58 reviews and is approved by the Test Kitchen.

Nutrition Facts (per 1 cup, without bacon):
- 179 calories
- 9g fat (5g saturated fat)
- 25mg cholesterol
- 690mg sodium
- 21g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber)
- 4g protein

Red Velvet Jar Cake

These red velvet jar cakes are perfect for friends, family, and teachers. The recipe has 1 review and is approved by the Test Kitchen.

Nutrition Facts (per 1 serving):
- 530 calories
- 28g fat (13g saturated fat)
- 64mg cholesterol
- 358mg sodium
- 70g carbohydrate (52g sugars, 2g fiber)
- 6g protein

Spinach-Beef Spaghetti Pie

With its angel hair pasta crust, this cheesy ground beef, tomato and spinach pie is always a hit. The recipe has 12 reviews and is a contest winner.

Nutrition Facts (per 1 piece):
- 377 calories
- 21g fat (11g saturated fat)
- 130mg cholesterol
- 544mg sodium
- 24g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 3g fiber)
- 22g protein

Fruit-Topped Blintzes

These blintzes are a fruity version of the original. The recipe has 3 reviews and is approved by the Test Kitchen.

Nutrition Facts (per 2 blintzes):
- 340 calories
- 19g fat (10g saturated fat)
- 283mg cholesterol
- 237mg sodium
- 29g carbohydrate (13g sugars, 0 fiber)
- 14g protein

Chicken in Puff Pastry

This dish is made with just five ingredients and is easy to entertain friends with. The recipe has 17 reviews and is a contest winner.

Nutrition Facts (per 1 each):
- 496 calories
- 30g fat (12g saturated fat)
- 115mg cholesterol
- 571mg sodium
- 36g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 5g fiber)
- 19g protein

Reuben Dip

This slow-cooked spread tastes just like the popular Reuben sandwich. The recipe has 29 reviews and is approved by the Test Kitchen.

Nutrition Facts (per 2 tablespoons):
- 58 calories
- 5g fat (3g saturated fat)
- 18mg cholesterol
- 126mg sodium
- 1g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber)
- 2g protein

Cool Strawberry Cream

This fruity, luscious dessert makes a wonderful ending to a special dinner. The recipe has 4 reviews and is approved by the Test Kitchen.

Nutrition Facts (per 1 piece with about 2 tablespoons sauce):
- 198 calories
- 10g fat (6g saturated fat)
- 27mg cholesterol
- 62mg sodium
- 26g carbohydrate (23g sugars, 2g fiber)
- 2g protein

Pineapple Ham Casserole

This casserole features pineapple, which is an important fruit crop in Hawaii. The recipe has 19 reviews and is approved by the Test Kitchen.

Nutrition Facts (per 1 each):
- 527 calories
- 34g fat (19g saturated fat)
- 139mg cholesterol
- 1541mg sodium
- 34g carbohydrate (11g sugars, 1g fiber)
- 22g protein

Creamy Strawberry Crepes

Wrap summer-ripe strawberries and creamy filling into these delicate crepes for an elegant brunch entree. The recipe has 10 reviews and is approved by the Test Kitchen.

Nutrition Facts (per 2 crepes):
- 415 calories
- 26g fat (16g saturated fat)
- 115mg cholesterol
- 163mg sodium
- 40g carbohydrate (28g sugars, 2g fiber)
- 7g protein

Italian Cream Cake

Buttermilk makes every bite of this awesome Italian cream cheese cake recipe moist and flavorful. The recipe has 33 reviews and is approved by the Test Kitchen.

Nutrition Facts (per 1 piece):
- 736 calories
- 41g fat (19g saturated fat)
- 117mg cholesterol
- 330mg sodium
- 90g carbohydrate (75g sugars, 2g fiber)
- 7g protein

Baked Chicken Burritos

This mouthwatering southwestern burrito recipe makes enough for two casseroles, so you can enjoy one today and freeze the other for a busy weeknight. The recipe has 16 reviews and is approved by the Test Kitchen.

Nutrition Facts (per 2 burritos):
- 760 calories
- 44g fat (23g saturated fat)
- 177mg cholesterol
- 1608mg sodium
- 40g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber)
- 51g protein

Berry-Cream Cookie Snaps

These cute cookies are crispy on the outside and light and fluffy inside. The recipe has 6 reviews and is a contest winner.

Nutrition Facts (per 1 cookie):
- 72 calories
- 4g fat (3g saturated fat)
- 12mg cholesterol
- 44mg sodium
- 8g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 0 fiber)
- 1g protein

Cheesecake

This recipe has been passed on to dozens of folks. The creator's daughter served it for her wedding instead of traditional cake. The recipe has 19 reviews and is approved by the Test Kitchen.

Nutrition Facts (per 1 piece):
- 504 calories
- 36g fat (20g saturated fat)
- 131mg cholesterol
- 357mg sodium
- 40g carbohydrate (30g sugars, 1g fiber)
- 7g protein

Grape Salad

Everyone raves when this refreshing, creamy grape salad is brought to potlucks. The recipe has 170 reviews and is approved by the Test Kitchen.

Nutrition Facts (per 3/4 cup):
- 131 calories
- 6g fat (3g saturated fat)
- 17mg cholesterol
- 35mg sodium
- 19g carbohydrate (18g sugars, 1g fiber)
- 2g protein

Peanut Butter Pudding Dessert

This layered dessert appeals to all ages. The recipe has 48 reviews and is a contest winner.

Nutrition Facts (per 1 piece):
- 406 calories
- 25g fat (13g saturated fat)
- 33mg cholesterol
- 288mg sodium
- 40g carbohydrate (25g sugars, 1g fiber)
- 7g protein

Hash Brown Broccoli Bake

This dish is perfect for a potluck or holiday buffet. The recipe has 6 reviews and is approved by the Test Kitchen.

Nutrition Facts (per 3/4 cup):
- 216 calories
- 15g fat (9g saturated fat)
- 42mg cholesterol
- 334mg sodium
- 13g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 2g fiber)
- 9g protein

Creamed Corn with Cream Cheese

Five ingredients are all you'll need for this popular creamed corn recipe. The recipe has 27 reviews and is approved by the Test Kitchen.

Nutrition Facts (per 3/4 cup):
- 378 calories
- 26g fat (16g saturated fat)
- 74mg cholesterol
- 439mg sodium
- 34g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 4g fiber)
- 8g protein

Marshmallow-Almond Key Lime Pie

This pie has a smooth marshmallow layer on top, making it stand out as a crowd favorite. The recipe has 18 reviews and is a contest winner.

Nutrition Facts (per 1 piece):
- 587 calories
- 35g fat (18g saturated fat)
- 115mg cholesterol
- 235mg sodium
- 60g carbohydrate (42g sugars, 2g fiber)
- 12g protein

Raspberry Cream Pie

This recipe is delicious with either fresh-picked or frozen raspberries. The recipe has 27 reviews and is a contest winner.

Nutrition Facts (per 1 piece):
- 507 calories
- 28g fat (14g saturated fat)
- 70mg cholesterol
- 196mg sodium
- 61g carbohydrate (46g sugars, 4g fiber)
- 4g protein

Pina Colada Fruit Dip

This tropical dip can be served as an appetizer or a dessert. The recipe has 14 reviews and is approved by the Test Kitchen.

Nutrition Facts (per 1/4 cup):
- 186 calories
- 10g fat (6g saturated fat)
- 25mg cholesterol
- 96mg sodium
- 24g carbohydrate (19g sugars, 0 fiber)
- 2g protein

Vanilla Bean Cupcakes

These cupcakes are loved by the creator's son. The recipe has 10 reviews and is approved by the Test Kitchen.

Nutrition Facts (per 1 cupcake):
- 266 calories
- 13g fat (8g saturated fat)
- 56mg cholesterol
- 143mg sodium
- 36g carbohydrate (24g sugars, 0 fiber)
- 3g protein

Crab & Artichoke Dip

This rich and creamy snack is a favorite among the creator's girlfriends. The recipe has 1 review and is approved by the Test Kitchen.

Nutrition Facts (per 1/4 cup, without crackers):
- 158 calories
- 12g fat (8g saturated fat)
- 50mg cholesterol
- 279mg sodium
- 3g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber)
- 9g protein

Make-Ahead Mashed Potatoes

This mashed potato casserole is super rich and delicious. The recipe has 97 reviews and is approved by the Test Kitchen.

Nutrition Facts (per 3/4 cup):
- 354 calories
- 20g fat (12g saturated fat)
- 56mg cholesterol
- 400mg sodium
- 40g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 5g fiber)
- 7g protein

Spinach Dip-Stuffed Mushrooms

These stuffed mushrooms are easy to make and perfect for traveling. The recipe has 8 reviews and is approved by the Test Kitchen.

Nutrition Facts (per 1 stuffed mushroom):
- 44 calories
- 3g fat (2g saturated fat)
- 9mg cholesterol
- 100mg sodium
- 1g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber)
- 2g protein

Lemon-Blueberry Pound Cake

This moist lemon-blueberry cake pairs perfectly with vanilla ice cream. The recipe has 58 reviews and is approved by the Test Kitchen.

Nutrition Facts (per 1 piece):
- 434 calories
- 10g fat (6g saturated fat)
- 78mg cholesterol
- 281mg sodium
- 80g carbohydrate (54g sugars, 1g fiber)
- 7g protein

Artichoke Phyllo Cups

These adorable phyllo cups are a bite-sized version of rich, creamy artichoke dip. The recipe has 2 reviews and is approved by the Test Kitchen.

Nutrition Facts (per 1 appetizer):
- 70 calories
- 4g fat (1g saturated fat)
- 4mg cholesterol
- 149mg sodium
- 6g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber)
- 2g protein

Cream Cheese Spritz Cookies

These Christmastime classics are highlighted with orange and cinnamon. The recipe has 11 reviews and is approved by the Test Kitchen.

Nutrition Facts (per 1 cookie):
- 56 calories
- 3g fat (1g saturated fat)
- 4mg cholesterol
- 20mg sodium
- 6g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 0 fiber)
- 1g protein

Garlic-Herb Bagel Spread

This creamy spread is loaded with oregano, basil, garlic and feta. The recipe has 1 review and is approved by the Test Kitchen.

Nutrition Facts (per 2 tablespoons):
- 68 calories
- 6g fat (4g saturated fat)
- 15mg cholesterol
- 71mg sodium
- 2g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber)
- 2g protein

Pink Lemonade Stand Cake

This moist and creamy cake has a tangy, citrusy touch. The recipe has 9 reviews and is approved by the Test Kitchen.

Nutrition Facts (per 1 piece):
- 732 calories
- 39g fat (24g saturated fat)
- 172mg cholesterol
- 291mg sodium
- 91g carbohydrate (68g sugars, 1g fiber)
- 7g protein

Carrot Cake with Pecan Frosting

This homey, old-fashioned version of carrot cake is requested by the creator's husband. The recipe has 12 reviews and is approved by the Test Kitchen.

Nutrition Facts (per 1 slice):
- 557 calories
- 27g fat (10g saturated fat)
- 72mg cholesterol
- 358mg sodium
- 74g carbohydrate (57g sugars, 2g fiber)
- 6g protein

Mediterranean Pastry Pinwheels

These quick appetizers are irresistible with the flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and pesto. The recipe has 6 reviews and is approved by the Test Kitchen.

Nutrition Facts (per 1 appetizer):
- 170 calories
- 13g fat (5g saturated fat)
- 18mg cholesterol
- 227mg sodium
- 11g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 2g fiber)
- 4g protein

Pineapple Upside-Down Cheesecake

This recipe looks like the classic pineapple upside-down cake but gets even tastier as a pineapple upside-down cheesecake. The recipe has 3 reviews and is approved by the Test Kitchen.

Nutrition Facts (per 1 piece):
- 549 calories
- 24g fat (13g saturated fat)
- 117mg cholesterol
- 298mg sodium
- 79g carbohydrate (72g sugars, 1g fiber)
- 6g protein

Fontina Rolled Chicken

This chicken with fontina and cream cheese is like a blissful trip to Italy. The recipe has 9 reviews and is a contest winner.

Nutrition Facts (per 1 serving):
- 561 calories
- 32g fat (14g saturated fat)
- 213mg cholesterol
- 962mg sodium
- 15g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber)
- 51g protein

Cranberry Cream Cheese French Toast

This French toast bake is a great brunch dish for Christmas morning. The recipe has 4 reviews and is approved by the Test Kitchen.

Nutrition Facts (per 1 serving):
- 375 calories
- 19g fat (10g saturated fat)
- 231mg cholesterol
- 382mg sodium
- 38g carbohydrate (18g sugars, 1g fiber)
- 13g protein

Heirloom Tomato Pie

This tomato pie is made with produce from the creator's neighbors. The recipe has 4 reviews and is a contest winner.

Nutrition Facts (per 1 piece):
- 322 calories
- 25g fat (14g saturated fat)
- 71mg cholesterol
- 590mg sodium
- 14g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 1g fiber)
- 10g protein

Creme de Menthe Squares

This layered bar hits all the sweet spots: it’s airy, creamy, crunchy and the perfect mix of cool mint and rich chocolate. The recipe has 6 reviews and is a contest winner.

Nutrition Facts (per 1 piece):
- 371 calories
- 21g fat (11g saturated fat)
- 58mg cholesterol
- 232mg sodium
- 43g carbohydrate (27g sugars, 1g fiber)
- 4g protein

Cool and Creamy Fruit Salad

This fruit salad has been enjoyed by the creator's family for 25 years. The recipe has 1 review and is approved by the Test Kitchen.

Bagel with a Veggie Schmear

This recipe was given by the creator's favorite bagel shop in New York City. The recipe has 2 reviews and is approved by the Test Kitchen.

Nutrition Facts (per 2 open-faced sandwiches):
- 341 calories
- 6g fat (3g saturated fat)
- 22mg cholesterol
- 756mg sodium
- 56g carbohydrate (15g sugars, 10g fiber)
- 20g protein

Dilly Cheese Ball

This herby cheese spread is devoured by the creator's whole family. The recipe has 4 reviews and is a contest winner.

Nutrition Facts (per 2 tablespoons):
- 100 calories
- 8g fat (4g saturated fat)
- 22mg cholesterol
- 244mg sodium
- 5g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber)
- 3g protein

Pinwheels

These tortilla roll ups are always a hit. The recipe has 70 reviews and is a contest winner.

Nutrition Facts (per 1 pinwheel):
- 63 calories
- 4g fat (2g saturated fat)
- 8mg cholesterol
- 119mg sodium
- 5g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber)
- 2g protein

Recipes Using Cream Cheese FAQ

What can I make with leftover cream cheese?
Leftover cream cheese can easily be turned into quick dips, sweet desserts or savory spreads for crusty bread using just a few extra ingredients. Whip heavy cream, sugar and cream cheese until thick to top berries and prepared pound cake for a no-bake treat. Melt a bit into scrambled eggs, mashed potatoes, mac and cheese or marinara sauce for a creamy upgrade. Add it gradually to recipes as it will thicken sauces, and too much cream cheese can make it taste sticky or tacky.

How do you soften cream cheese quickly?
To soften cream cheese quickly, cut the block into cubes and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. If you’re short on time, place an unwrapped block in a microwave-safe bowl and warm it for 5 seconds at a time until soft but not melted. If the cream cheese starts to liquify, refrigerate, stirring frequently, until it has thickened just enough to smoothly beat it into batters, like your favorite cheesecake recipe.

How do you prevent cream cheese from curdling when cooking?
Cream cheese is much less likely to curdle than sour cream or yogurt, but sudden temperature changes or extremely high heat can cause separation. To keep cream cheese from curdling when cooking, bring it to room temperature and stir it into warm, not boiling liquids. For creamy sauces or soups, add cream cheese at the end of cooking until fully melted and hot but not vigorously boiling.

The Cookware Trend to Skip (& a Superior Option to Try)

The Cookware Trend to Skip (& a Superior Option to Try)

M Hasan    6:50 AM   

The Truth About Non-Stick Cookware and Health Risks

Non-stick cookware has long been a staple in many kitchens, praised for its convenience and ease of use. However, concerns about its safety have sparked a growing debate among health experts and home cooks. While it may not be entirely harmful, there are valid reasons to consider replacing your non-stick pans with a safer alternative.

Most non-stick pans are coated with a chemical called polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), commonly known as Teflon. This material is often referred to as a "forever chemical" because it does not break down easily in the environment. While it makes cooking and cleaning easier, PTFE can degrade over time due to high heat, scratches from utensils, or general wear and tear. When this happens, small particles of the coating can flake off into your food, potentially leading to ingestion.

Although some guidelines suggest that proper care—such as avoiding metal utensils, not leaving pans on high heat for extended periods, and storing them correctly—can minimize these risks, the issue remains significant. It's also important to note that non-stick pans should not be stored in oven drawers, as stacking or exposure to residual heat can accelerate the breakdown of the coating.

A Safer Alternative: Cast Iron Pans

For those looking to move away from non-stick cookware, cast iron pans offer a natural and durable alternative. Unlike PTFE-coated pans, cast iron is free from synthetic chemicals and can even provide a source of dietary iron. With regular use, cast iron develops a natural seasoning layer that gives it a non-stick surface similar to that of traditional non-stick pans.

Cast iron pans are also incredibly versatile, capable of handling a wide range of cooking tasks—from searing steaks to baking cornbread. They can transition seamlessly from the stovetop to the oven and can last for generations with proper care.

How to Care for Your Cast Iron Pan

Caring for a cast iron pan is simpler than many people believe. It’s essential to avoid using soap when cleaning, as it can strip away the seasoning. After washing, the pan should be thoroughly dried to prevent rust. A light coat of oil should be applied after each wash to maintain the seasoning.

When it comes to cleaning, harsh scrubbers and strong detergents should be avoided. Instead, many chefs recommend using a simple method like rubbing salt onto the pan with a soft cloth. This helps remove residue without damaging the seasoning.

Why Cast Iron Is a Smart Investment

Beyond its safety and durability, cast iron offers long-term value. While it may require some initial effort to season and maintain, the benefits far outweigh the costs. It’s an investment that pays off over time, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to reduce their exposure to potentially harmful materials while enjoying reliable and versatile cookware.

If you're ready to make the switch, there are plenty of options available, including pre-seasoned cast iron skillets that are ready to use right out of the box. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a home cook, cast iron provides a safe, effective, and timeless solution for your kitchen needs.